Does Your New Facility Require an EPA Licence?

If you intend to set up an industrial facility of some kind, then you know that you will need authorisation and licences from various government agencies. You will certainly need to work with your local authority so that you can get the relevant permission to operate in the first place, but you may also need to get a licence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). So, if your business will pollute or has the capacity to pollute the nearby environment, what do you need to know about these restrictions and how should you apply for a licence?

Requirements

Each state or territory may have different requirements when it comes to the potential for pollution and it is not always easy to determine whether or not you may need a licence. Typically, however, you may be at risk of causing pollution if the business will produce heat, create noise, generate solid or liquid waste, or create any emissions.

Some organisations may be relatively small in size and may not actually need a licence, whereas a larger operation could. It is nevertheless important to get the right type of licence if needed, as the EPA can levy a substantial fine in the event of a transgression.

Specific Agreement

When a licence is issued, it becomes an enforceable agreement between the facility and the EPA and requires the company to meet the minimum acceptable standards listed on the face. This licence could be very specific and tailored to the operation in question but it will require the licensee to take all reasonable measures to protect the quality of the environment and to make sure that everybody working for them does the same.

Validity and Application

A licence may be valid for five years on average but this can vary according to the individual case and office in question. However, it can take several months to process before it is granted, especially if the operation is quite complex or may require further investigation.

Getting Help

There is a great deal on the line here. If an organisation fails to get the right licence or does not conform, then they open themselves up to not just potential charges but also reputational harm. It is, therefore, a good idea to get in touch with a consultant to help assess the situation and to apply for EPA licenses. This expert advice will help to avoid any problems and ensure that the business gets underway without any risk in this area.