Polish municipalities launch extensive water and sewage connection inspections

Local governments across Poland have begun a nationwide campaign to inspect private water‑supply connections, septic tanks and rain‑water drainage systems. Inspectors may enter properties without prior notice and owners must allow access and present recent invoices for waste‑water removal. The checks aim to detect illegal hookups to municipal water or sewer networks, which carry fines of up to 5,000 złoty, and illegal rain‑water discharges, punishable by fines up to 10,000 złoty and, in severe cases, imprisonment of up to five years. Over 2 million on‑site septic tanks exist in the country, and authorities estimate that 30‑40 % of owners lack complete documentation. Data from 2024 show that 8‑22 % of inspected properties received penalties, a share expected to rise after stricter rules take effect in 2026. Municipalities now also must report inspection results to the Chief Environmental Inspectorate, increasing oversight of water use versus waste‑water disposal. The programme, affecting towns such as Zwoleń, Tereszpol, Wągrowiec and Suwałki, is intended to protect groundwater, prevent sewer overloads during heavy rain and ensure proper waste‑water management.