What is a construction site waste disposal plan and what should be included?

A construction site waste disposal plan is a structured document used to manage all forms of waste generated throughout a construction project, including solid waste and wastewater. It helps to control what materials and liquids are discarded, how they are handled, and who is responsible for each part of the process. The plan provides clarity on managing construction waste types and volumes, supporting legal compliance, cost control and environmental performance.

Types of waste likely to be generated

The plan should identify all waste streams expected on site. These typically include:

• Grey water from showers, sinks or washing stations
• Black water from toilet systems or foul drainage
• Bilge water from construction equipment or temporary site infrastructure
• Grease or oily wastewater from on-site catering or kitchen facilities

Method of waste management

Each type of waste must be managed appropriately. The plan should detail how materials and wastewater will be:

• Reused on site where possible
• Recycled through approved facilities
• Collected and removed by licensed contractors for safe disposal

For wastewater, best practices for management  that complies with legal requirements include:

• Storage in compliant holding tanks
• Collection and removal by a licensed wastewater specialist such as Universal Tankers
• Maintaining documentation of volumes collected and disposal locations

Waste handling responsibilities

The plan must name the contractors or subcontractors responsible for each waste stream, including:

• Material reuse and recycling
• Solid waste transport and disposal
• Wastewater collection and removal, which may be separated into the handling of black water, grey water, and grease-laden waste

Tracking and documentation

The plan must set out a process for monitoring waste generation and movement across the project. This means:

• Recording the type and volume of waste produced
• Keeping accurate waste transfer notes and disposal certificates
• Monitoring wastewater volumes and service records from removal providers

Roles and accountability

Clear lines of responsibility should be included in the plan, identifying who will:

• Oversee the implementation of the waste disposal procedures
• Monitor ongoing compliance with environmental regulations
• Manage record-keeping and reporting requirements

By covering both solid and liquid waste, including wastewater, a construction site waste disposal plan helps maintain operational efficiency and legal compliance. With support from specialist contractors like Universal Tankers, sites can handle even complex waste requirements without disruption to the wider project.

What are the benefits of having a SWMP?

A SWMP provides a structured approach to handling waste across all stages of a construction project. By clearly outlining how materials will be reused, recycled or disposed of, an SWMP can help construction teams plan ahead and limit unnecessary waste.

The benefits of using an SWMP include:

• Improved waste management practices: encourages the reuse of surplus materials, identifies recycling opportunities and reduces reliance on disposal routes.
• Better environmental performance: supports compliance with environmental best practices by limiting landfill use and promoting sustainable material handling of potentially hazardous waste.
• Lower waste disposal costs: reducing the amount of waste removed from the site can cut transportation and landfill fees.
• Proof of regulatory compliance: helps demonstrate alignment with building regulations and environmental obligations through clear documentation and audit trails.

Are site waste management plans legally required?

SWMPs are no longer a legal requirement for the construction process. The obligation to produce them was removed in 2013. However, they are still widely recommended as an effective way to manage waste on construction sites. Many contractors continue to use them to improve site efficiency, reduce disposal costs and support compliance with wider environmental responsibilities.

Although not mandatory, SWMPs can play a key role in helping construction sites comply with environmental legislation. Sites must operate in line with several strict legal frameworks, including:

• The Environmental Protection Act 1990
• The Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016
• The Water Industry Act 1991

These regulations are in place to prevent environmental harm and protect drinking water supplies. A structured SWMP helps construction teams keep accurate records of all waste produced – including solid waste and wastewater – and shows that reasonable steps have been taken to handle that waste responsibly. This can help mitigate the risk of regulatory breaches, fines or legal action.

How Universal Tanker's waste disposal services can help

Universal Tankers provides comprehensive, compliant wastewater removal services to construction sites of all sizes. With over 30 years’ experience helping businesses in the construction industry and a network of 19 depots across England and Scotland, we’re trusted by contractors nationwide to keep their sites clear, compliant and operational.

We specialise in the safe removal and disposal of liquid waste in line with all environmental regulations. Whether your project requires regular servicing or emergency support, we offer a flexible, dependable service tailored to the needs of your site.

Our services include:

• Scheduled wastewater collections: we can put in place routine removals to manage ongoing waste output and prevent disruption to your operations.
• Emergency response: our team is on hand for rapid response when unplanned build-up or equipment failure requires immediate intervention.
• Removal and disposal of liquid waste: we handle waste materials from septic tanks, sewage treatment plants, pump stations and mobile welfare units with care and precision.
• Reliable coverage across England and Scotland: with strategically located depots and a modern fleet, we provide prompt service wherever your project is based.

Our fleet includes the Univore – a robust tanker built for remote and difficult-to-access sites – that allows us to deliver consistent service even in the most challenging conditions. Whether you’re running a long-term development or a short-term build, Universal Tankers provides the support needed to manage wastewater effectively and maintain compliance throughout your project.