Environmental permitting for landfill

Find out if you need to apply for an environmental permit

Do I need to apply for a permit or register an exemption?

A landfill is the disposal of waste in or on land. You will need an environmental permit to operate a landfill.  

All operational landfills need a permit complying with the Landfill Directive. Additional directives may apply. The Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive (IPPC) applies to those landfills receiving over 10 tonnes in any day or with a total capacity exceeding 25000 tonnes, but excluding landfills taking only inert waste. It may also apply to other activities on the site such as leachate treatment and landfill gas utilisation plants.

Further information is available at the link below:

Types of environmental permit

We have two types of permit available:

• a standard rules permit is available for pet cemeteries.
• bespoke permits for any other types of landfill.   

Making an application

You need to fill in the application form if you want to apply for a new permit or if you want to change, transfer or surrender your permit:

If you want to make an application for a new landfill, you will need to complete the relevant risk assessment templates:

Environmental permitting guidance

Read specific guidance for the landfill sector to help you complete your application and comply with the conditions of your environmental permit:

How we work together

Find out how we consult with the public and relevant organisations on applications for permits:

Environmental permitting applications

View the current environmental permitting applications: