
Septic Tanks
C J Lyon & Sons Ltd started off emptying Septic tanks in the local area, we have now built a strong reputation with commercial and domestic customers around the North West of England, providing services such as; drain clearing, drain tracing, CCTV drain surveying, gully emptying, interceptor emptying, manhole surveying, and septic tank emptying.
We are a family run business who understand all aspects of the liquid waste disposal industry.
We offer a range of tanker services;
- Septic Tank Emptying
- Draining
- Pumping
- Desludging & Cleaning
- Greasetrap Emptying
- Emergency Over-Pumping
- Pump Station Cleaning
We have a vast knowledge of septic tanks, and drains.
Our staff are fully qualified, and have had many years of experience in the drainage industry.

Regulations
In 2020, new regulations were implemented in the UK regarding septic tanks, primarily focusing on environmental protection and the proper management of wastewater.
Key Regulations and Requirements
- General Binding Rules (GBRs): The GBRs came into effect on January 1, 2020, and apply to all septic tanks and small sewage treatment plants in England. These rules aim to ensure that domestic wastewater is treated and disposed of safely to protect the environment and human health.
- Discharge Restrictions: Under the GBRs, septic tanks that discharge directly into surface water (such as rivers or streams) must be upgraded or replaced with a sewage treatment plant. This change was made to prevent pollution from untreated wastewater. Existing systems that discharge into the ground are exempt from this requirement but must still comply with general maintenance and operational standards.
- Maintenance and Compliance: Property owners are responsible for ensuring that their septic tanks are maintained and emptied regularly to prevent overflow and pollution. Tanks must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and must meet relevant environmental standards.
- Upgrading Systems: If a septic tank discharges into a watercourse, property owners must either upgrade their system or change the discharge to a drainage field. The deadline for compliance was set for January 1, 2020, or sooner if the property is sold.
- Legal Obligations: Homeowners must be aware of their responsibilities regarding the installation, maintenance, and environmental impact of their septic systems. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences and potential fines.
Conclusion
The 2020 septic tank regulations emphasize the importance of proper wastewater management to protect the environment. Property owners should ensure their systems are compliant with the GBRs and take necessary actions to upgrade or maintain their septic tanks as required. For specific guidance, consulting with local authorities or environmental agencies is recommended.

