Cess Pits are basically water tight tanks that store your waste material, from all sources, until emptied. The tanks can be constructed from many materials including bricks and mortar, plastic and metal. Whilst the waste is in the tank, no treatment takes place and it is forbidden to filter/drain off the liquid. For domestic use, the Cess Pit is a dying breed as the new rules and regulations favour the Fosse Septique. Obviously in situations where there is insufficient land for a Fosse Septique, and its filter system, and no mains drainage, a Cess Pit will probably be the only choice left. Its main drawback is that it needs emptying on a regular basis.