Waste carrier licence: who needs one and how to register
A waste carrier licence is the registration a business needs before it transports waste. In England it is issued by the Environment Agency. You need one if you carry waste as part of your work, including your own, and you can be fined up to 5,000 pounds for carrying waste without it.
Waste carrier licence: key facts
| Official name | Registration as a waste carrier, broker or dealer |
|---|---|
| Who issues it | The Environment Agency in England. SEPA, Natural Resources Wales and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency elsewhere |
| Lower tier | Free, and does not need to be renewed |
| Upper tier | Carries a fee and is renewed every three years |
| Penalty for not registering | A fine of up to 5,000 pounds |
Who needs a waste carrier licence?
You must register if your business does any of these.
- Carries waste. You transport waste, whether it is your own or someone else's.
- Buys or sells waste. You are a dealer, even if you never handle it.
- Arranges for others to deal with waste. You are a broker.
That covers builders, gardeners, cleaners, scrap metal collectors and removal firms, as well as waste companies.
Lower tier or upper tier?
| Lower tier | Upper tier | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it is for | Businesses that only carry waste they produce themselves | Businesses that carry other people's waste |
| Building waste | Not covered | Needed for construction and demolition waste, even your own |
| Cost | Free | A fee applies |
| Renewal | None | Every three years |
How to register
- Decide which tier applies to you, using the table above.
- Apply online through the government service. You will need your business details and, for the upper tier, details of any relevant convictions.
- Keep your registration number. Customers and inspectors can ask to see it.
- Complete a waste transfer note for every load you carry for someone else.
How to check a waste carrier
Before you hand waste to anyone, check them on the public register. You remain responsible for your waste under the duty of care until it reaches an authorised site. If an unregistered carrier dumps it, you can be fined as well.
Registered carriers can find businesses with material to collect on our marketplace. See the materials for sale now, or search the directory.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a waste carrier licence to carry my own waste?
Yes, if you carry it regularly as part of your business. Carrying only waste you produced yourself needs the free lower tier registration, unless it is construction or demolition waste.
How long does a waste carrier licence last?
Lower tier registration does not expire. Upper tier registration lasts three years and must then be renewed.
What is the fine for not having a waste carrier licence?
Up to 5,000 pounds. An unregistered carrier can also be stopped and have the vehicle seized.
Does a scrap metal collector need a waste carrier licence?
Yes. A scrap metal collector needs to register as a waste carrier and also needs a scrap metal licence from the local council.
How do I check if a waste carrier is registered?
Search the public register of waste carriers, brokers and dealers with the business name or registration number. It is free.