Construction and civil engineering projects frequently rely on Waste Management Licensing Exemptions to recover suitable waste materials.
Two of the most widely used are Paragraph 9 and Paragraph 19.
As Scotland transitions to EASR, operators should begin reviewing how these activities will be authorised in future.
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9 generally applies to the use of suitable waste for:
- Land restoration
- Land improvement
- Landscaping
- Agricultural improvement
where the recovery of waste provides a genuine environmental benefit.
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19 applies to the recovery of suitable waste within construction and engineering projects, including:
- Roads
- Access tracks
- Hardstanding
- Drainage works
- Civil engineering infrastructure
using materials such as recycled aggregates and crushed concrete.
What happens next?
Operators relying on these exemptions will need to transition to the appropriate EASR authorisation.
Applications may be required before the exemption expires or by 1 November 2026, depending on the individual exemption.
Planning ahead can help ensure projects continue without unnecessary regulatory delays.
Albion Environmental can assist
Our consultants work with developers, contractors and infrastructure providers throughout Scotland, providing advice on:
- EASR authorisations
- Construction waste recovery
- Site assessments
- Infrastructure requirements
- Environmental compliance
Albion Environmental offers a free initial exemption review, helping you identify which EASR authorisation applies to your activities and highlighting any documentation or infrastructure that may be required before submitting an application to SEPA.
If your business relies on Paragraph 9 or Paragraph 19, we’d be happy to discuss what the transition means for your future projects.
📞 01292 610428