Environmentally hazardous activity

Permits and notifications

Many environmentally hazardous activities are subject to specific requirements, such as permits, notifications and self-monitoring.

An activity requires either a permit or a notification. The rules are set out in the Environmental Activities and Health Protection Ordinance and the Environmental Assessment Ordinance.

Activities are divided into three categories:

• A activities require a permit from the Land and Environment Court
• B activities require a permit from the County Administrative Board
• C activities must be notified to the municipality

Examples of activities that require a permit include industries, landfills and quarries.

Examples of activities that must be notified include petrol stations, recycling centres, laundries and larger shooting ranges.

How to submit a notification

You must submit a notification at least six weeks before the activity starts. The notification is submitted to the Environment and Building Committee.

For certain activities, the committee must assess whether they may have a significant environmental impact. The activity must not begin before such a decision has been made.

To ensure a smooth process, the notification must be complete. It should include the information, drawings and descriptions needed to assess the impact on health and the environment.

More information is available on the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s website. If you are unsure about what applies, you can contact the Environment and Building Unit.

Reusing excavated materials and other waste

Waste can be reused in construction works, for example in building, landfilling or noise barriers. This may include excavated materials, soil, gravel, stone, concrete and bricks.

To reuse waste, there must be a clear purpose. The aim must not be simply to dispose of the waste.

The materials must be clean and sorted. They must not contain, for example, asphalt, metal, plastic, rubber or wood. They must also not be contaminated.

You need to submit a notification to reuse waste. For larger quantities or in sensitive areas, a permit from the County Administrative Board may be required.

Contact the Environment and Building Unit if you are unsure about what applies.

Regulations for tanks

The installation or decommissioning of tanks for flammable liquids or waste oil must be notified to the Environment and Building Committee. The notification must be in writing and submitted at least four weeks before the facility is put into use.

To protect land and water, tanks must be inspected regularly.

The notification requirement applies to tanks with a capacity of more than one cubic metre, both above and below ground. It also applies to associated pipes and hoses.

In water protection areas, the requirement also applies when handling more than 150 litres.

In some cases, a permit is required for handling flammable or explosive substances. This mainly applies to professional use or larger quantities.

Contact the rescue services if you would like more information.