In 2013 the Environment Agency introduced the digital waste exemption system replacing paper and e-form options making the renewing of waste exemptions easier for farmers and other businesses.
A lot of farmers could potentially save money as they are now able to register for a free waste exemption permit, provided they can meet limits and conditions.
The waste exemption permit allows farms and other businesses to handle small quantities of waste.
Farmers are being reminded to renew their waste exemptions, this can be completed online and will only take a few minutes to complete.
The waste exemption permits last for 3 years and are simple to re-register for another 3 years when the original exemptions expire. The Environment Agency will send a letter or email to the registered address when the exemptions are due for renewal. This must be responded to by the date stated, failing to do so could lead to a sit in inspection.
Key Facts:
- Waste exemptions cover a wide range of aspects, such as storing waste, burning hedge trimmings, and spreading waste on agricultural land.
- All businesses must ensure any contractor they engage with has an appropriate permit for the services they are providing.
- Each exemption will contain conditions in order to prevent pollution or harm to human health.
- It is an offence to operate a waste activity without the appropriate exemption or to fail to register a waste activity.
- You are required to keep a written description of the waste activity for 2 years.
