When transferring waste, both the provider and the receiver need to complete a Waste Transfer Note. This ensures that the waste is disposed of safely and avoids both parties facing significant fines or legal action.
What is a waste transfer note?
Waste transfer notes are a type of environmental permit. They were outlined in Section 34 of the Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991. Waste transfer notes allow improperly disposed waste to be traced back to the original producer.
They are forms signed by the party receiving and the party giving the waste. They include details on both parties and the waste they are transferring. The note needs to be completed for every load of waste which is given or received.
Waste transfer notes reduce the likelihood of fly-tipping and ensure waste disposal complies with environmental regulations. Even once they have transferred the waste, the producer can still be held accountable. This is why it is also important to partner with a registered waste carrier who is licensed by The Environmental Agency.
Are there waste exemptions?
A waste transfer note is not required when household waste is being collected from the household that produced it.
If two parties are repeatedly exchanging the same type of waste in the same area, they can apply for a season ticket. This means only one waste transfer note is required for twelve months. However, the waste, location and parties must be the same for every transfer.
What to include in a duty of care waste transfer note
Requirements for a waste transfer note can vary depending on the local council. For most commercial waste collection in Britain, a waste transfer note should include:
- The names, addresses and signatures of both parties
- When and where the waste is being transferred
- A description of the waste and the quantity
- The waste classification code
- How the waste has been processed and how it is packaged
- The waste license number of the receiver
- The SIC codes of the businesses
Disposing of hazardous waste (such as biomedical waste, batteries, and dangerous chemicals) has additional requirements.
You need to keep a record of all waste transfer notes for at least 2 years and be able to provide them on demand.
At MI Transport, we hold an upper tier waste license and can safely dispose of all kinds of waste. For more information on our services, email warren.boxford@mitransportltd.co.uk or call 01604 499330.