What are the new the Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations 2018 (EASR) that will fully replace the current system of exemptions and permits?
Big changes are coming to environmental regulation in Scotland. Starting 1 November 2025, the majority of environmental authorisations in Scotland will be replaced by the updated Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations (EASR).
Under EASR, authorisations will be issued in the form of permits, registrations, notifications, or through compliance with General Binding Rules (GBRs).
This new integrated framework is expected to streamline the regulation of activities, and the changes aim to simplify compliance, enhance environmental protection, and support sustainable resource use.
Operators carrying out multiple regulated activities will only need to apply for one authorisation that covers all their activities. The type of authorisation required will be decided by the highest level of authorisation needed for each activity.
Which Regulations Are Being Affected?
EASR amends or replaces a number of different regulations. These include:
- The Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2011 (CAR)
- Pollution Prevention & Control (Scotland) Regulations 2012 (PPC)
- The Waste Management Licensing (Scotland) Regulations 2011 (including exemptions)
- Controlled Waste (Registration of Carriers and Seizure of Vehicles) Regulations 1991
- Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations 1989
- End of Life, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, batteries and MRF code of practice.
- Landfill (Scotland) Regulations 2003
If you currently carry out an activity that is authorised and regulated under any of the regulations listed above, the move to EASR may affect you.
How will the transition Work?
Many existing authorisations will automatically transition to EASR on 1 November 2025, and no action will be required from the authorisation holder, but some may need to reapply or update conditions.
However, some authorisations may be subject to changes in conditions or may require a new application under EASR.
All exemptions will be phased out, meaning you may need to apply for a new authorisation.
What you need to do will depend on the type of authorisation you currently hold and the nature of your activity.
At Albion, we’re here to help. Our team is ready to provide expert guidance and support to ensure you understand what’s changing, how it affects your operations, and how to stay compliant under the new regime.
What’s Changing?
All exemptions will be phased out – new applications must be made under EASR
- New authorisations: GBRs, Notifications, Registrations, and Permits
- Stronger Fit & Proper Person test to tackle waste crime.
- Clearer regulatory notices, technical standards & stronger enforcement powers
- Focus on low-risk activity exclusions (e.g. composting at schools, on-farm burning).
- Dedicated standards for areas like land spreading, waste to land, and restoration.
As part of the ongoing rollout of the Environmental Authorisations (Scotland) Regulations (EASR), SEPA is expanding the scope of activities that require formal authorisation.
Key Dates:
- Since 1st June 2025: Applications for land spreading (Para 7) accepted under EASR (optional until 31 Oct)
- From 1st Nov 2025: All new waste activities must comply with EASR
- 2026: Expired exemptions must reapply under the new system; carriers & brokers transition from April
Fees and charges?
In most cases the annual charges will remain the same.
If you hold an authorisation for a waste management, water or industrial activity and currently pay an annual fee, SEPA will contact you directly, if your annual fee has changed you will be re-invoiced after 1st November 2025.
If your annual fee is not changing you will be invoiced as normal in April 2026.
How Albion Can Help?
At Albion, we’re ready to support your transition to EASR. Our expert team can help you:
- Identify whether your activities now require a new authorisation.
- Transition smoothly from current exemptions or permits
- Understand the new conditions and requirements
- Stay compliant and avoid enforcement action
Learn more: https://beta.sepa.scot/regulation/authorisations-and-compliance/