1. Overview
You might need an environmental permit if your business manages or produces waste or emissions that pollute the air, water or land.
- Check if there are any basic rules around your activity – you won’t need to do anything further if you can meet all the conditions.
- Check if you qualify for an exemption and find out how to apply.
- You must apply for an environmental permit if you don’t qualify for an exemption – find out what type of permit you need before you apply.
- Check whether you must also apply for a local authority environmental permit – you’ll need one for activities including refining gas and disposing of animal carcasses.
If you have a septic tank
You must apply for a septic tank permit if your business produces a large amount of ‘domestic sewage’ – typically waste from toilets, sinks and drains in a home or small business, eg a nursing home, guest house or pub.
Get more help
Contact the Environment Agency if you need help, eg deciding what kind of exemption or permit you should apply for.
Environment Agency
enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk
Telephone: 03708 506 506
Minicom: 03702 422 549
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Find out about call charges
2. Basic rules
There are rules for different kinds of business activities that may cause pollution. They explain what you need to do to make sure your business is environmentally safe.
Check if there are any rules that apply to your activity – you won’t need to do anything further if you meet all the conditions for: