We prepare environmental permit applications for new activities and changes to existing operations. The application describes the activity being authorised, the environmental risks and the controls proposed, with supporting evidence kept consistent across the submission.
Environmental Permit Applications
Permit applications supported by consistent activity descriptions, risk evidence and regulator responses.
Environmental Permit Applications enquiry
The proposed activity
Equipment, materials and operating conditions determine the information needed for the permit application.
Site emissions
Air, water, noise and waste need consideration according to the activity and its surroundings.
Choosing the correct permit or authorisation
The correct authorisation depends on the activity, capacity, materials, emissions and site. In England, some activities are excluded or can operate under an exemption, while permitted activities may be regulated by the Environment Agency or a local authority depending on what the operation does. Other UK nations have their own regulatory arrangements, so the regulator and authorisation route need to match the location.
Existing permits need to be read against the proposed change. New equipment, greater throughput or a different process can require a variation or another authorisation rather than being assumed to fall within the current permit.
Discuss environmental permit applications
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Environmental risks and operating controls
The risk assessment connects potential emissions and incidents with the people, water, habitats or other receptors that could be affected. Site plans, drainage information and the management system must describe the same operation, including monitoring and maintenance arrangements.
A complete application still has to be assessed by the regulator. Questions and requests for further information are part of that process, so our role is to prepare and support the application rather than promise approval or a determination date.
Standard rules, bespoke permits and exemptions
For Environment Agency permits in England, standard rules are available only where the activity and site meet all the relevant conditions. Otherwise an individually assessed permit may be needed. An exemption is a different route with its own conditions and limits; it is not a simplified permit.
Environmental Permit Applications: common questions
Does planning permission replace an environmental permit?
No. Planning and environmental permitting address different requirements; an operation may need both.
Can an existing permit cover a new process?
That needs checking against its authorised activities and conditions. A variation or separate permission may be required.
Will a consultant’s report guarantee the permit?
No. The regulator determines the application and can request changes or additional information.
Could the activity be exempt from environmental permitting?
Some activities are excluded or may qualify for an exemption, subject to the applicable conditions. The activity and location need to be checked before relying on that route.
Who determines an environmental permit application?
The relevant regulator determines the application. In England, responsibility can sit with the Environment Agency or a local authority depending on the activity.