Waste Carrier Permit Changes: Why Checking Your Carrier Matters

The way waste carriers, brokers and dealers are licensed in England is changing. The current registration system, which has been relatively easy to join, is being replaced by a permit-based system for anyone who controls or transports waste. The new regulations include a transition period, and the new system is expected to be fully in force during 2027.

Why Is the System Changing?

Under the current system, registering as a waste carrier has been quick and cheap, with few checks on who is applying. That has made it too easy for rogue operators to look legitimate, take payment for collecting waste and then fly-tip it. The new permit system is designed to raise standards across the industry and make it harder for criminals to operate.

What Will Change for Waste Businesses?

Under the new system, businesses that transport or arrange the movement of waste will need a permit and will have to show that they meet set standards. This is expected to include identity checks, criminal record checks on the people running the business, and evidence of technical competence through training, qualifications or experience. Permit holders will also need to display their permit number clearly, including on vehicles and in their advertising.

Why This Matters to You

Whether you are a homeowner clearing a garage or a business with regular waste, you have a legal duty to make sure your rubbish goes to someone who is authorised to take it. If your waste is fly-tipped after you hand it to an unlicensed collector, you could be fined, even if you did not dump it yourself. Our guide to your duty of care for waste explains exactly what that means.

How to Check a Waste Carrier Today

Until the new system is fully in place, you can check that a carrier is registered using the Environment Agency's public register. Ask for their registration number before they take anything, and be wary of anyone who cannot provide one, who only accepts cash, or whose price seems too good to be true. Our guide on what a waste carrier licence is explains what to look for.

Our Approach at Taylors Skip Hire

We have been collecting and recycling waste across Surrey and Sussex for over 30 years, and everything we collect is taken to our own Horley picking station to be sorted. We welcome tougher standards in the industry, as they help protect customers and the environment from rogue operators. If you would like to know more about how we handle your waste, see our recycling page.