Standard Rules Environment Agency Permit

You may need a standard rules Environment Agency permit if your industrial or manufacturing business is regulated under the Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016. Not all businesses are regulated under this regime. There are also thresholds to meet. Tonnages, throughput, waste codes, processes etc. If you meet these thresholds then you need to apply for a permit.

There are two main types of permit.  A standard rules permit and bespoke permit. standard rules permit is just that, a permit with standard rules. You need to decide if you can comply with them before you apply. If you cannot comply then you may need to apply for a “bespoke” environmental permit. A bespoke permit is particular to what volumes and types of waste you want to treat. You will of course pay more for this type of tailored permit. 

Standard Rules Environment Agency Permit

A standard rules permit is easier to apply for and comply with. You should always see if your business can operate within one of these permits first. It isn’t always possible of course as your business may be located next to a SSSI, or nature reserve. In this case the initial conservation screen that you complete will show that you are not eligible to apply for a standard rules Environment Agency permit.

Standard Rules Environment Agency Permit

Is not advertised to statutory consultees or the public. A bespoke permit is. Bespoke permits therefore take much longer to go through the determination process. These usually require much more input in terms of dat and surveys befor they are issued.

The fees for standard rules permits are fixed. You can expect to pay much more for a bespoke permit.

A list of standard rules permits can be found on the EA website.  There are a bewildering array of permit available for all types of businesses. You need to read each carefully before you apply. You will need to supply risk assessments, management system procedures, site plans, drainage plans & WAMITAB qualifications. For combustible waste fire prevention plans are also required depending on your industry type.

UPDATE Spring 2025 – The Environment Agency are reviewing the list of Waste Exemptions that are currently on the you.gov website. Many small waste businesses operate under these exemptions and have been exempt from a permit. Due to widespread abuse many of these are being removed and several are changing. If you still want to operate once the exemptions like a T9 have been removed. Then you will need to apply for one of the permits above. This is expected in Summer 2025.

Paul Downing & Associates have over 25 years experience of permitting with many industrial types of businesses. We understand the complexities of applying for and complying with your environmental permit. We can offer a one-stop service, from scoping your permit application, dealing with the EA on your behalf to compliance and post application support.

Call us today on 0779014708 or 01428 768 087 for an informal discussion on how we can help your business. We can help regardless of industry type.