SEPA is the competent authority for all Part A activities in operation in Scotland.  Part A activities are those activities listed under Part A within Schedule 1 of the Pollution Prevention and Control (Scotland) Regulations 2000 as amended.

Operators of Part A activities require a PPC permit in order to be able to undertake their activity.  It is an offence to undertake an activity prescribed without a PPC Permit.  Certain exclusions exist for existing activities that must make application for a PPC permit following a timetable laid out within the Regulations.

SEPA and the Scottish Executive have produced a guide entitled “The Pollution Prevention and Control (Scotland) Regulations 2000 – A Practical Guide (Part A Activities)” that provides a description of the main elements of the PPC regime for Part A activities including permitting, applications, appeals and site report guidance. 


Making an Application for a PPC Part A Permit

Before making an application for a PPC Permit it is strongly recommended that you discuss your application with your local SEPA office.  These discussions will help inform you about the permitting process, the types of information you will have to provide, and the types of controls that will be included in your permit.

SEPA has developed guidance to help in making an application for a PPC Part A permit.  Entitled “Part A Installations: guide for applicants” that runs through the PPC application process.  You can view the guide by clicking here.

Application forms for Part A activities can be accessed by clicking here.

A range of further guidance issued by SEPA can be found by clicking here.  You can also gain access to the European IPPC Bureau’s BAT Reference documents, and UK technical Guidance on specific types of activities through SEPA’s website.


Public Involvement in the PPC Regime for Part A Activities

The PPC regime is designed to encourage public involvement in the regulatory process.  Further information on public participation in the PPC permitting regime for Part A activities can be found by clicking here.