Waste carrier registration guidance by nation.
The registration process is different in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Use this page to understand which regulator applies before starting an application.
Choose your nation first
Your business location determines which environmental regulator handles the registration.
Select your nation
These summaries are general information. Our application support service is separate from the official regulator.
Environment Agency
Businesses in England may need to register as a waste carrier, broker or dealer. Upper-tier registrations generally need renewal every 3 years; lower-tier registration does not normally need renewal.
- Own-business waste may qualify for lower tier in the relevant circumstances.
- Transporting other people’s waste, construction/demolition waste, or broker/dealer activity can require upper tier.
- The current official registration and renewal fees are separate from our service fee.
Natural Resources Wales
Businesses based in Wales register with Natural Resources Wales. Upper-tier registrations normally last 3 years and must be renewed; lower-tier registration does not normally need renewal.
- Carrying another person’s waste or construction/demolition waste can require upper tier.
- Broker and dealer activities can require registration.
- Official regulator charges are separate from our private service fee.
SEPA
Scotland has its own waste registration process. Since 1 April 2026, SEPA uses the term waste transporter for what was previously referred to as a waste carrier.
- Waste transporters and brokers are registered through the Scottish system.
- Check the Scottish requirements that apply to your activities and business.
- Our form collects your Scottish details so we can prepare the application information.
NIEA / DAERA
Northern Ireland has a separate registration process. Upper-tier and lower-tier registrations are available, with different requirements and renewal arrangements.
- Upper-tier registrations normally last 3 years.
- Upper-tier renewals are separate from new applications.
- Some lower-tier activities qualify for a registration without a fee.
Private application support
Waste Licence Services is an independent private service. We are not a government department or environmental regulator. Our service fee is separate from any official registration fee. If the regulator requires information or evidence that is not collected by this form, we may contact you for it.