Do I need a permit?
To operate certain industrial processes and commercial activities with the potential to pollute air, water and land, an Environmental Permit is required from the local authority. This is a requirement of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 (As Amended) and includes activities such as manufacturing using organic solvents, mobile crushers, vehicle respraying, cement works, petrol filling stations and dry cleaners.
The permit sets out pollution limits and measures to prevent and control pollution.
Our Environmental Protection team is currently responsible for regulating around 80 processes across the district.
Types of permit
There are three types of permit:
Part A(1) permits
These are regulated by the Environment Agency and cover emissions to air, land, water, energy and water usage. Industries that are the most polluting come under this category.
Part A(2) permits
We regulate these permits, which cover emissions to air, land, water, energy and water usage. Industries seen as a medium risk to the environment are included in this category.
Part B permits
We regulate these permits, which cover emissions to air only. Lesser polluting industries are in this category.
How do I apply?
Visit the GOV.UK website for information on how to apply for a Part A(1) permit.
Email envhealth@huntingdonshire.gov.uk to apply for a Part A(2) or Part B permit.
Fees and charges
The fees for Environmental Permitting mainly consist of a one-off application fee, followed by an annual subsistence fee. Some processes may also be required to have other one-off fees, including some types of variation, surrender and transfer of permits to another operator.
Environmental Permitting fees are determined by Defra on an annual basis and vary from one type of business to another. They also vary depending on the environmental performance, which is calculated using a risk assessment method devised by Defra and based on inspection outcome.
View information regarding charging scheme for Part A2 processes and small waste incinerators.
View information regarding charging scheme for Part B processes.
Public register information
You can view a list of processes regulated by the council under the Environmental Permitting Regulations.
For further information and to arrange access to view documents on the Environmental Permitting public register, please contact envhealth@huntingdonshire.gov.uk
Documents relating to The Environment Agency 'Part A1' activities are available on the Environment Agency public register website.