How to apply for a trade effluent consent

If your production process generates any liquid waste other than standard domestic sewage (such as toilets or hand sinks), you must have a Trade Effluent Consent from your local water authority before you start discharging into the public sewer. Failure to obtain this legal permission can lead to heavy fines and even criminal prosecution, so it is vital to have your consent in place before you begin manufacturing.

What is trade effluent?

Trade effluent is any liquid waste which is discharged from premises used for a business, trade, or industry. It is not standard sewage (toilets and showers) or clean rainwater. Common examples include:

• Water used for washing down food production areas.
• Waste liquids from brewing or distilling.
• Chemicals, detergents, or oils from cleaning processes.
• Cooling water or condensate from machinery.

How to apply for consent

The process is managed by your regional water and sewerage company. Follow these steps to secure your permission:

1. Identify your provider: Find out which company manages the sewerage in your area (e.g., Thames Water, United Utilities, Severn Trent). This is usually the same company that sends your water bill.
2. Request the application form: Visit their website or call their "Trade Effluent" department. Most companies have a specific form (sometimes called a G01 form) for new applications.
3. Provide technical details: You will need to tell them exactly what is in your waste. This includes the maximum volume you intend to discharge per day, the flow rate, the temperature, and the chemical composition (pH levels, presence of fats, oils, or grease).
4. Pay the application fee: Most water companies charge a one-off fee to process your application.

What happens next?

Once you submit your application, the water company has two months to reach a decision. They may grant "Consent," which will likely come with strict conditions. These conditions often limit:

Condition	Description
Volume	The maximum amount of liquid you can discharge in a 24-hour period.
Rate of discharge	How fast the liquid enters the sewer (litres per second).
Quality	The concentration of certain substances (like suspended solids or sulphates).

Note: If you change your production process or increase the amount of waste you produce later on, you must notify your water company as you may need a variation to your consent.

Tips for a smooth application

• Be accurate: Do not guess your discharge volumes. If you exceed your consented limits, you are breaking the law. If you aren't sure, consult a plumber or an environmental consultant to help you estimate.
• Install a meter: Many companies require you to have a private meter installed on your effluent pipe so they can monitor exactly how much waste you are producing.
• Check for "Prohibited Substances": Some substances, like certain flammable solvents or concentrated acids, are never allowed in the sewer. Check the "Red List" of substances with your water provider early in the process.