Waste Carrier Licence Checker
Use our free waste carrier licence check tool to search the Environment Agency register and verify if a waste carrier is properly licensed before you hire them. It's your legal duty of care.
Search the EA Permit Register
Enter a business name to run a waste carriers licence check against the official Environment Agency public register.
Data sourced from the Environment Agency Public Register
Homeowners Can Be Fined for Using an Unlicensed Waste Carrier
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, if your waste is fly-tipped by someone you paid to remove it, you could face a fine of up to £5,000 — or an unlimited fine if the case goes to court. Always perform a waste carrier licence check before hiring anyone to dispose of your waste.
Understanding Waste Carrier Licences & Your Legal Responsibilities
How to Check a Waste Carrier Licence
Every business that collects, transports, or disposes of waste must hold a valid waste carrier licence registered with the Environment Agency.
- Ask the carrier for their waste carrier registration number (e.g. CBDU12345)
- Use the waste carrier licence check tool above to verify it against the official EA register
- Check the registration hasn't expired
- Make sure the business name matches who you're dealing with
If they can't provide a licence number, don't use them.
What is a Waste Transfer Note?
A Waste Transfer Note (WTN) is a legal document that records the transfer of waste from one party to another. Any licensed waste carrier should provide one.
- It must be completed every time waste changes hands
- It describes what waste is being moved, how much, and where it's going
- Both the person giving the waste and the person taking it must sign
- WTNs must be kept for at least 2 years
Always ask for a copy of the WTN as proof your waste was handled legally.
Your Duty of Care as a Homeowner
Under the Duty of Care, householders have a legal responsibility to ensure waste is disposed of by a licensed waste carrier.
- You must perform a waste carriers licence check before handing over your waste
- If your waste is dumped illegally, you can be fined even if you paid someone else
- Fixed penalty notices can be up to £400, court fines can be unlimited
- "I didn't know" is not a valid defence
Fly-tipping often happens when people choose the cheapest option. A genuine carrier will always provide a waste carrier licence number and a waste transfer note.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waste Carrier Licence Checks
How do I check a waste carrier licence?
Use the WasteFindr waste carrier licence check tool at the top of this page to search by business name. The tool queries the Environment Agency register in real time to confirm whether a waste carrier holds a valid licence.
What happens if I use an unlicensed waste carrier?
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, if your waste is fly-tipped by an unlicensed carrier you hired, you could face a fixed penalty notice of up to £400 or an unlimited fine if the case goes to court.
What is a waste carrier licence?
A waste carrier licence (also known as a waste carrier registration) is issued by the Environment Agency to businesses and individuals who collect, transport, or dispose of waste. It is a legal requirement under the Controlled Waste Regulations.
Where can I find the EA permit register?
The EA permit register is available online at environment.data.gov.uk. You can also use the WasteFindr licence checker which queries the same Environment Agency register with a simpler interface.
Red Flags When Hiring a Waste Carrier
They only accept cash payments
They can't provide a waste carrier licence number
They advertise very cheap waste removal on social media
They use an unmarked or unbranded vehicle
They won't provide a waste transfer note
They're vague about where they'll take your waste
Learn More About Waste Carrier Licences
Read our in-depth guides on waste carrier licensing, the EA permit register, and your legal responsibilities.
What Is a Licensed Waste Carrier Licence & Why It Matters
Understand what a licensed waste carrier licence is, who needs one, and the legal penalties for operating without registration.
Read articleHow to Do a Waste Carriers Licence Check
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Read articleWaste Carrier Licence: Everything You Need to Know
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Read articleEA Permit Register: How to Search the Environment Agency Database
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