Industrial Discharge Consents

What needs a discharge consent?

Under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, all discharges of trade or sewage effluent from industrial or commercial premises to surface waters or underground strata require a consent. Site drainage from areas such as coal yards, oil storage areas or vehicle loading areas is also a trade effluent.

What is a discharge consent?

Discharge consent contains conditions relating to both the quality and quantity of effluent which may be discharged. These conditions are designed to protect the aquatic environment and to comply with national and European Commission standards.

How long does it take to process a consent?

Depending on the complexity of the application a consent will be processed within four months. If additional time is required the applicant will be asked to agree to a time extension.