Permitted processes

Some industrial processes require a permit to operate from the council, and these permits set strict conditions to eliminate or minimise pollution emissions. These processes, termed “prescribed processes”, are subject to regular inspection. For most, the council’s responsibility is limited to the control of air pollution, but, for a few, the Permit conditions address and control: the pollution of air, water and land, noise and vibration, odour, waste, energy, raw materials, incidents and emergencies, and decommissioning. 

Which processes require a permit?

Prescribed processes are defined in Schedule 1 of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2010

How do I apply for a permit?

Download, complete and return the appropriate application form, together with the fee.

Fees can vary, and can be viewed at the Defra website.

The council proactively inspects all its prescribed processes at frequencies which vary according to the assigned risk rating, and, in any case, at least once a year. Breach of permit conditions is an offence, and the council has the power to take a range of enforcement actions, including prosecution.

Each prescribed process has an associated Public Register, held on file at the main council offices. The Register contains:

• A copy of the completed application form
• A copy of the Permit
• Monitoring results (where applicable)
• Copies of the inspection reports
• Details of any enforcement action taken

The Register may be viewed, free of charge, during normal business hours.