Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 SR 46

The Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations (Northern Ireland) set out a pollution control regime which implements the EC Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control (IPPC) Directive (96/61/EC) in Northern Ireland, and regulates other polluting activities not covered by the Directive.

The regulations came into force in 2003 and were amended in 2004 and 2007 to include additional activities.

These regulations apply in Northern Ireland only.

What are the Pollution Prevention and Control (Northern Ireland) Regulations?

The regulations establish a pollution control system to regulate industrial activities and other installations that have a major impact on the environment. They aim to reduce pollution by monitoring business activities that cause pollution.

Who do the Pollution Prevention and Control (Northern Ireland) Regulations affect?

The regulations apply to businesses and individuals involved in the operation of installations or mobile plant, including:

energy industries
production and processing of metals
mineral industries
chemical industries
waste management.

These installations and mobile plant activities are classified as either A, B or C installations.

Part A are the most polluting and are subject to integrated pollution control by the Chief Inspector of Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA).

Part B and C are subject to air pollution control. Part B are controlled by the Chief Inspector and Part C by local councils.

What do you have to do?

See our guidance on:

How are the Pollution Prevention and Control Regulations enforced?

The NIEA enforces the regulations. An individual or a business found guilty on summary conviction can be fined up to £30,000 and/or imprisoned for up to six months, or if convicted on indictment can be fined an unlimited amount and/or be imprisoned for up to five years.