Site Suitability Assessments in Ireland

What is a Site Suitability Assessment?

A Site Suitability Assessment evaluates whether a proposed residential site can safely treat and disperse domestic wastewater on-site without posing a risk to surface waters, groundwater, or public health.

In Ireland, planning authorities require a site suitability assessment conducted in accordance with the EPA Code of Practice: Domestic Wastewater Treatment Systems (Population Equivalent ≤ 10) for any unsewered rural house site.

Key Stages of an Assessment

• Desk Study: Geological survey, aquifer vulnerability, bedrock data, and local water protection schemes.
• Visual Assessment: Surface topography, drainage features, vegetation indicators, and neighbouring wells.
• Trial Hole Test: Excavation to inspect subsoil profile, water table depth, and bedrock.
• Percolation Testing: Standardised hydraulic testing (T-tests and P-tests) to measure permeability.

Find a Local Assessor