It is the responsibility of all businesses, community groups, and charitable organisations to manage their waste in a safe and lawful way. 

Failure to comply with the relevant legislation can result in fines or prosecution, so it's important you understand your duties. 

Store waste safely

All commercial waste is classed as controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

• You must store waste securely to prevent harm to human health or the environment.
• Waste should be kept in suitable containers, with lids closed, and in areas that avoid spillages, odours, or vermin.

Separate waste properly

Under the Waste (Scotland) Regulations 2012, businesses must separate the following for collection:

• Metal, plastic, paper and card
• Glass
• Food waste (if you produce over 5kg per week)

We work with SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) to ensure compliance. Businesses found to not separating their waste correctly may be reported for enforcement action.

Applications for late-hours catering or street trader licences may be refused if sufficient waste separation arrangements aren't in place.

Use a registered waste carrier

If you give your waste to someone else to dispose of:

• They must be a registered waste carrier (which can be checked on SEPA's website)
• You must have a valid waste transfer note (WTN) to cover the handover

A WTN must include details of the waste type, who collected it, and when. You must keep a copy for at least two years.

If your waste is collected regularly and is of the same type, a season ticket WTN may be used (valid for up to 12 months).

If your waste has left your premises and you do not hold a valid WTN, you are in breach of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Under law, Falkirk Council can request copies of WTNs covering the last two years with at least one week’s notice.

Failure to comply may result in referral to SEPA and further enforcement action.

 We offer a reliable waste and recycling collection service for all business properties. 
  
To find out more, please contact us: