Do you need an EASR waste authorisation?

There are four different types of EASR authorisations. The type of authorisation needed depends on the activity carried out and its risk to the environment.

The types of EASR authorisation are:

• operate a landfill
• store or transport waste
• treat waste, carry out recycling or use mobile plant
• carry out waste recovery activities
• carry out final disposal of waste

You are unlikely to need an EASR registration or permit if you only store waste that you produce, and an authorised waste carrier removes it from your site regularly. However, you may need to comply with General Binding Rules (GBRs). You must also check that anyone who handles your waste has the correct authorisation. 

Duty of care 

What you must do if you hold an EASR registration or permit 

If you hold an EASR registration or permit you must:

• comply with the conditions of the permit or registration
• pay the fees and charges
• ensure the person applying for the permit is ‘in control’ of the activity and is a fit and proper person
• registrations and permits do not expire, unless specifically stated, and exist until surrendered or revoked 

Submit data returns 

If your EASR registration or permit requires you to submit a data return you will need to complete the relevant form on the SEPA website. 

Waste exemptions 

You can no longer apply to register a waste exemption in Scotland. 

Some common low risk waste activities do not require authorisation from SEPA, but require the person carrying out the activity to take precautions – see Low risk waste activities in Scotland. 

All other waste activities will likely require an EASR authorisation from SEPA.  

Animal by-products and catering waste 

If you collect, transport, store, handle, process or dispose of animal by-products or catering waste that is not intended for human consumption, you must also comply with the animal by-products regulations. 

Further information

SEPA: Waste activities