An Act to protect the environment; to replace other environment protection legislation; and for other purposes.
Chapter 1 Preliminary
1 Name of Act
This Act is the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.
2 Commencement
This Act commences on a day or days to be appointed by proclamation.
3 Objects of Act
The objects of this Act are as follows—(a) to protect, restore and enhance the quality of the environment in New South Wales, having regard to the need to maintain ecologically sustainable development,(b) to provide increased opportunities for public involvement and participation in environment protection,(c) to ensure that the community has access to relevant and meaningful information about pollution,(d) to reduce risks to human health and prevent the degradation of the environment by the use of mechanisms that promote the following—(i) pollution prevention and cleaner production,(ii) the reduction to harmless levels of the discharge of substances likely to cause harm to the environment,(iia) the elimination of harmful wastes,(iii) the reduction in the use of materials and the re-use, recovery or recycling of materials,(iv) the making of progressive environmental improvements, including the reduction of pollution at source,(v) the monitoring and reporting of environmental quality on a regular basis,(vi) the proper environmental management of chemicals throughout their whole lifecycle,(e) to rationalise, simplify and strengthen the regulatory framework for environment protection,(f) to improve the efficiency of administration of the environment protection legislation,(g) to assist in the achievement of the objectives of the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001.s 3: Am 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [1] [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [1]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[1].
4 Definitions
Expressions used in this Act have the meanings set out in the Dictionary at the end of this Act.
5 Scheduled activities
(1) Listing of activities The activities listed in Schedule 1 are scheduled activities for the purposes of this Act.(2) Limitations If Schedule 1 so provides, a specified activity is a scheduled activity for the purposes of this Act only in specified circumstances, or only in specified areas or only under specified conditions.(3) Change in listings The regulations may amend or replace Schedule 1. The regulations may contain provisions of a savings or transitional nature consequent on the amendment or replacement of Schedule 1.
6 Appropriate regulatory authority
(1) EPA The EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority for the purposes of this Act, except as provided by this section.(2) Local councils and other local authorities A local authority is the appropriate regulatory authority for non-scheduled activities in its area, except in relation to—(a) the exercise of functions under Chapter 3 (Environment protection licences), or(b) premises defined in an environment protection licence as the premises to which the licence applies, and all activities carried on at those premises, or(c) activities carried on by the State or a public authority, whether at premises occupied by the State or a public authority or otherwise, or(c1) activities carried on by an authorised network operator (within the meaning of the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015) whether at premises occupied by the authorised network operator or otherwise, or(d) a matter for which a public authority (other than the local authority) is declared under subsection (3) to be the appropriate regulatory authority.(3) Public authorities declared by regulation A public authority is the appropriate regulatory authority for a matter for which it is declared to be the appropriate regulatory authority by the regulations (subject to such conditions or limitations as are specified in the regulations). The regulations under this subsection—(a) may declare a local authority to be the appropriate regulatory authority in respect of non-scheduled activities excluded under subsection (2), but(b) may not declare any public authority to be the appropriate regulatory authority for activities carried on by that public authority.(4) Limitation to local area A function conferred or imposed by or under this Act on a local authority, in its capacity as the appropriate regulatory authority or otherwise, may be exercised only in or in relation to the local authority’s area.Note—The regulations have prescribed certain authorities as the appropriate regulatory authorities for certain non-scheduled activities in certain areas. By virtue of this Act, the marine authority is given jurisdiction in connection with noise control notices and noise abatement directions relating to vessels (see sections 263 and 275).s 6: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [2]; 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [1]; 2023 No 7, Sch 1.19[1].
7 General relationship with other Acts
(1) Other Acts not affected Nothing in this Act affects any of the provisions of any other Act or any statutory rules, or takes away any powers vested in any person or body by any other Act or statutory rules.(2) This Act generally prevails However (subject to subsection (3))—(a) this Act prevails over any other Act or statutory rule to the extent of any inconsistency, and(b) a regulation made under this Act prevails over any other statutory rule to the extent of any inconsistency.(3) Marine Pollution Act 2012 prevails The provisions of, or made under, the Marine Pollution Act 2012 (except Part 8), in their application to State waters within the meaning of that Act, prevail over this Act, to the extent of any inconsistency.s 7: Am 2012 No 5, Sch 1.5 [1].
8 Notes
Notes in the text of this Act do not form part of this Act.
Chapter 2 Protection of the environment policies
Part 2.1 Introduction
9 Definitions
In this Chapter—environment protection goal means a goal—(a) that relates to desired environmental outcomes, and(b) that guides the formulation of strategies for the management of human activities that affect the environment.environment protection guideline means a guideline that gives guidance on possible means for achieving desired environmental outcomes.environment protection protocol means a protocol that relates to the process to be followed in measuring environmental characteristics to determine—(a) whether a particular standard or goal is being met or achieved, or(b) the extent of the difference between the measured characteristic of the environment and a particular standard or a particular goal.environment protection standard means a standard that consists of identifiable or quantifiable characteristics of the environment against which environmental quality can be assessed.impact statement means an impact statement prepared by the EPA relating to a draft policy.policy means a protection of the environment policy.Note—The Dictionary defines a protection of the environment policy as a protection of the environment policy made by the Governor under this Chapter and in force. The abbreviation PEPs is used in headings to refer to those policies.
10 Purpose of PEPs
Protection of the environment policies may be made for the purpose of declaring policies to be observed with respect to protecting the environment in New South Wales and, in particular, for the purpose of—(a) furthering the objectives of the EPA as set out in section 6 of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991,(b) managing the cumulative impact on that environment of existing and future human activities.
11 Contents of PEPs
(1) A policy must specify one or more of the following—(a) an environment protection goal,(b) an environment protection standard,(c) an environment protection guideline,(d) an environment protection protocol.(2) A policy containing an environment protection goal may specify a program by which that goal is to be achieved, and performance indicators by which the achievement of that goal is to be measured.(3) A policy may be made for the purpose of implementing in New South Wales a national environment protection measure.Note—National environment protection measure is defined in the Dictionary.(4) A policy may be made in respect of the following—(a) the whole or any part of the State,(b) the environment generally or any part of it,(c) any activity that may impact, or has impacted, on the environment,(d) any form of pollution,(e) any aspect of waste,(f) any kind of technology or process,(g) any kind of chemical or other substance that may impact, or has impacted, on the environment,(h) any matter in respect of which national environment protection measures may be made.
Part 2.2 Draft policies
12 Preparation of draft PEP
(1) The EPA may from time to time prepare draft policies in accordance with this Chapter.(2) The Minister may direct the EPA to prepare a draft policy about a particular matter in accordance with this Chapter. The EPA must comply with the direction.
13 General considerations in preparing draft PEP
(1) In preparing a draft policy, the EPA must take into consideration—(a) the environmental, economic and social impact of the policy, and(b) the simplicity, efficiency and effectiveness of the administration of the policy, and(c) any environmental planning instruments that the EPA considers relevant (including any such draft instruments that are publicly available and are still current), and(d) any national environment protection measures that the EPA considers relevant (including any such draft measures that are publicly available and are still current), and(e) the principles of environmental policy set out in the Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment, as in force for the time being, and(f) any regional environmental differences within New South Wales.(2) The EPA may take other matters into consideration.
Part 2.3 General procedure for preparing draft policies
14 Application of Part
This Part applies to the preparation of a draft policy, except where Part 2.4 applies.
15 (Repealed)
s 15: Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [1]. Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[1].
16 EPA to prepare draft PEP and impact statement
(1) The EPA—(a) may prepare a draft of the policy, and(b) if it does so, must prepare an impact statement relating to the draft policy.(2) The impact statement is to include all of the following—(a) the desired environmental outcomes,(b) the reasons for the policy and the environmental impact of not making the policy,(c) a statement of the alternative methods of achieving the desired environmental outcomes and the reasons why those alternatives have not been adopted,(d) an identification and assessment of the economic and social impact on the community (including industry) of making the policy,(e) a statement of the manner in which any regional environmental differences in New South Wales have been addressed in the development of the policy,(f) the intended date for the making of the policy,(g) the timetable (if any) for the implementation of the policy,(h) the transitional arrangements (if any) in relation to the policy.
17 Public consultation
(1) Before making a policy, the EPA must publish a notice about the proposal to make the policy.(2) The notice must be published—(a) on the EPA’s website, and(b) if the EPA considers it necessary to publish the notice in other ways to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in a particular part of the State—in other ways the EPA is satisfied are likely to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in that part of the State.(3) The notice must—(a) state the objects of the proposed policy, and(b) advise where a copy of the proposed policy and impact statement may be obtained, and(c) invite submissions to the EPA on the proposed policy and impact statement within a period, not less than 3 months after the day on which the notice is published on the EPA’s website, specified in the notice.s 17: Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [2]. Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[2].
18 Other consultation during preparation of draft PEP
During the preparation of a draft policy, the EPA is to consult with such public authorities, organisations or persons as the Minister directs and may consult with such others as the EPA thinks appropriate.
19 EPA to consider impact statement and submissions
(1) In proceeding with a draft policy, the EPA is to take into consideration the following, in addition to the matters referred to in Part 2.2—(a) the impact statement that relates to the policy,(b) any submissions it receives that relate to the policy or to the impact statement.(2) Accordingly, the EPA may make appropriate alterations to the draft policy.
20 Submission of draft PEP to Minister
(1) Having completed all the steps required by this Part in relation to a draft policy, the EPA—(a) in the case of a draft policy that the Minister has, under Part 2.2, directed the EPA to prepare—must submit a copy of the draft policy to the Minister with a recommendation as to whether or not it be made, or(b) in the case of a draft policy that is not the subject of such a direction—may submit a copy of the draft policy to the Minister with a recommendation that it be made.(2) The copy of a draft policy submitted to the Minister under this section is to be accompanied by a report by the EPA about all relevant submissions made in accordance with this Part and any consultation undertaken by the EPA in connection with the draft policy.
Part 2.4 Special procedure for preparing draft policies
21 Application of Part
This Part applies to the preparation of a draft policy where the Minister so directs in accordance with this Part.
22 Directions
(1) Direction regarding implementation of national measure A direction can be given if the Minister is satisfied that the policy will, if made, implement a national environment protection measure.(2) Direction regarding minor amendments A direction can be given if the Minister is satisfied that the policy will, if made, amend or remake another policy in order to correct an obvious error in the other policy or to clarify the intention of the other policy.(3) Direction regarding interim policies A direction can be given if the Minister is satisfied that there are special reasons why the policy should be made without delay. The direction must set out those special reasons.Note—Part 2.6 provides that a policy the subject of such a direction may only be made for a period of 12 months or less and must include the special reasons set out in the direction. Under that Part, a further interim policy may not be made within 12 months after the expiry or repeal of an interim policy if it is the same in substance as the expired or repealed policy.(4) Consequential, machinery or minor matters A direction given under this section extends to matters dealt with in the policy that are of a consequential, machinery or minor nature (including for example the name and commencement of the policy, and transitional arrangements).(5) Revocation of direction The Minister may revoke a direction given under this section.
23 Effect of direction
A draft policy that is the subject of a direction under this Part can be prepared without the need to comply with Part 2.3.
24 Submission of draft PEP to Minister
(1) Having finalised a draft policy that is the subject of a direction under this Part, the EPA must submit a copy of the draft policy to the Minister with a recommendation as to whether or not it be made.(2) The copy of the draft policy is to be accompanied by a report by the EPA about any consultation undertaken by the EPA in connection with the draft policy and any submissions made to the EPA about the draft policy.
Part 2.5 Making policies
25 Recommendation for making PEP
After a draft policy has been submitted to the Minister under this Chapter, the Minister may recommend to the Governor the making of a policy—(a) in accordance with the draft policy as submitted, or(b) in accordance with the draft policy and such alterations as the Minister thinks fit.
26 Making of PEP
The Governor may make a policy in accordance with a recommendation under this Part.
Part 2.6 Interim policies
27 Interim PEPs
(1) A policy that is based on a draft policy that is the subject of a direction under section 22 (3) is an interim policy.(2) An interim policy must include a statement that it is the result of such a direction and must include the special reasons set out in the direction for which the direction was given.(3) An interim policy expires at the end of the period of 12 months after it is published in the Gazette, or a shorter period specified in the policy, unless it is sooner repealed.(4) An interim policy, being the same in substance as an interim policy that has expired or been repealed, may not be made within 12 months after the expiry or repeal of the earlier policy.(5) If an interim policy amends or repeals another policy, the expiry or repeal of the interim policy has the effect of restoring the other policy, as it was immediately before it was amended or repealed, as if the interim policy had not been made. The restoration of the other policy takes effect on the day that the interim policy expires or is repealed.
Part 2.7 Implementing policies
28 Implementing PEPs—action under this Act and other environment protection legislation
Any relevant policies must be taken into consideration—(a) by the EPA or other regulatory authority when making a decision under Chapter 3 on whether to issue a licence or when making a decision under that Chapter about a licence, and(b) by the EPA or other regulatory authority when making a decision under Chapter 4 on whether to issue an environment protection notice or when making a decision under that Chapter about such a notice, and(c) by the EPA when making a decision under Part 9.1 on whether to grant an exemption or when making a decision under that Part about an exemption, and(d) by the EPA when exercising any other licensing or regulatory environment protection function under the environment protection legislation.
29 Implementing PEPs—action under Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
Any relevant policies must be taken into consideration—(a) by a local council when preparing a local environmental plan or development control plan under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and(b) by the Secretary of the Department in which the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 is administered when preparing a regional environmental plan under that Act, and(c) by the Minister administering that Act when making a local environmental plan or regional environmental plan under that Act, when recommending the making of a State environmental planning policy under that Act or when giving directions under section 9.1 of that Act, and(d) by a consent authority when determining a development application under that Act, and(e) by a determining authority when consideration is being given under Part 5 of that Act to the likely impact of an activity on the environment, and(f) by the Minister administering that Act when approving under Division 4 of Part 5 of that Act the carrying out of an activity.s 29: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[1] [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[3].
30 Implementing PEPs—action by public authorities
(1) A policy must be taken into consideration by a public authority when exercising statutory or other functions, if the public authority is required to do so by that or another policy.(2) Such a requirement can be made as regards—(a) a specified public authority, or a specified class of public authorities, or public authorities generally, and(b) a specified function, or a specified class of functions, or functions generally.(3) This section does not limit the other provisions of this Part.
31 Discretions and functions of public authorities
(1) This Part does not operate to exclude a statutory discretion of a public authority, but the public authority must take the policy into consideration.(2) This Part does not operate to authorise any action by a public authority that is inconsistent with any statutory or other legal obligation of the public authority.
32 Definition of “public authority”
In this Part, includes a Minister (including the Minister administering this Act or any portion of it), and also includes the EPA.
Part 2.8 Miscellaneous
33 Amendment or repeal of PEPs
(1) A policy may be amended or repealed by another policy prepared and made in accordance with the relevant procedures set out in this Chapter.(2) Section 30 of the Interpretation Act 1987 applies to a policy in the same way as it applies to a statutory rule.
34 Publication and commencement of PEPs
(1) A policy—(a) is to be published in the Gazette, and(b) takes effect on the day on which it is so published or, if a later day is specified in the policy for that purpose, on the later day so specified.(2) Neither the whole nor any part of a policy is invalid merely because (without statutory authority) the policy is published in the Gazette after the day on which one or more of its provisions is or are expressed to take effect. In that case, that or those provisions take effect from the day the policy is published in the Gazette, instead of from the earlier day.
35 Machinery matters for which PEPs may make provision
A policy may do any one or more of the following—(a) apply generally or be limited in its application by reference to specified exceptions or factors,(b) apply differently according to different factors of a specified kind,(c) authorise any matter or thing to be determined according to the discretion of the EPA or any other person,(d) refer to or incorporate, with or without modification, a standard or other document prepared or published by a body specified in the policy, as in force at a particular time or from time to time.
36 PEPs not to create offences
A policy may not create an offence for a contravention of the policy.
37 Judicial notice and validity of PEPs
(1) Judicial notice is to be taken of a policy and of the date of its publication in the Gazette.(2) It is to be presumed, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, that all conditions precedent and preliminary steps necessary to the making of a policy under this Act have been complied with and performed.(3) The validity of a policy may not be questioned in any legal proceedings except those commenced in the Land and Environment Court by any person within 3 months after the date of its publication in the Gazette.
38 Failure to comply with procedural requirements
If—(a) there has been a failure to comply with a particular procedural requirement of this Act in preparing or making a policy, butthe failure does not invalidate the policy.(b) despite that failure there has been substantial compliance with the procedural requirements of this Act for preparing and making the policy,
39 Copies of PEPs to be available to public
(1) A copy of every policy is to be available for public inspection, without charge, at the principal office of the EPA during ordinary office hours.(2) A copy of every policy is to be available for purchase from the EPA.(3) Failure to comply with any provision of this section does not affect the validity or operation of a policy.
40 Abandonment of draft PEP
(1) Subject to any directions of the Minister, the EPA may decide at any time not to proceed with a draft policy.(2) The Minister may decline to recommend the making of a policy submitted to the Minister under this Chapter.
41 Subordinate Legislation Act 1989 does not apply to PEPs
A policy is not a statutory rule for the purposes of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989.
Chapter 3 Environment protection licences
Part 3.1 Introduction
42 Environment protection licences
Environment protection licences may be issued and otherwise dealt with in accordance with this Chapter.
43 Types of licences
Environment protection licences may be issued for the following purposes—(a) to authorise the carrying out of scheduled development work at any premises, as required under section 47,(b) to authorise the carrying out of scheduled activities at any premises, as required under section 48,(c) to authorise the carrying out of scheduled activities not related to premises, as required under section 49,(d) to control the carrying out of non-scheduled activities for the purpose of regulating water pollution resulting from any such activity, as referred to in section 122.Note—Scheduled activities for which a licence is required are set out in Schedule 1. Scheduled development work for which a licence is required is defined in section 47 (being generally work on premises, at which scheduled activities are not carried on, that is designed to enable scheduled activities to be carried on at the premises). This Act permits (but does not require) a licence to be issued for a non-scheduled activity—compliance with the conditions of the licence provides a defence to the offence of polluting waters under section 120.
44 Integration of licensing
(1) Licences may be issued or varied so as to cover either or both scheduled development work or scheduled activities.(2) Licences with respect to scheduled development work or scheduled activities may regulate all forms of pollution (including water pollution) resulting from that work or those activities.(3) Licences with respect to non-scheduled activities may also regulate any form of pollution in addition to water pollution resulting from those activities.(4) Licences authorising or controlling an activity carried on at any premises may also regulate pollution resulting from any other activity carried on at the premises to which the licence applies.
45 Matters to be taken into consideration in licensing functions
In exercising its functions under this Chapter, the appropriate regulatory authority is required to take into consideration such of the following matters as are of relevance—(a) any protection of the environment policies,(b) the objectives of the EPA as referred to in section 6 of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991,(c) the pollution caused or likely to be caused by the carrying out of the activity or work concerned and the likely impact of that pollution on the environment,(d) the practical measures that could be taken—(i) to prevent, control, abate or mitigate that pollution, and(ii) to protect the environment from harm as a result of that pollution,(e) any relevant green offset scheme, green offset works or tradeable emission scheme or other scheme involving economic measures, as referred to in Part 9.3,(f) whether the person concerned is a fit and proper person,Note—See section 83 for provisions relating to the determination of whether a person is a fit and proper person for the purposes of this section.(f1) in relation to an activity or work that causes, is likely to cause or has caused water pollution—(i) the environmental values of water affected by the activity or work, and(ii) the practical measures that could be taken to restore or maintain those environmental values,(g) in connection with a licence application relating to the control of the carrying out of non-scheduled activities for the purpose of regulating water pollution—whether the applicant is the appropriate person to hold the licence having regard to the role of the applicant in connection with the carrying out of those activities,(h) in connection with a licence application—any documents accompanying the application,(i) in connection with a licence application—any relevant environmental impact statement, or other statement of environmental effects, prepared or obtained by the applicant under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979,(j) in connection with a licence application—any relevant species impact statement prepared or obtained by the applicant under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 or Part 7A of the Fisheries Management Act 1994,(k) in connection with a licence application, any waste strategy in force under the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001,(l) in connection with a licence application—(i) any public submission in relation to the licence application received by the appropriate regulatory authority under this Act, and(ii) any public submission that has been made under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, in connection with the activity to which the licence application relates, and that has been received by the appropriate regulatory authority,(m) if the appropriate regulatory authority is not the EPA—any guidelines issued by the EPA to the authority relating to the exercise of functions under this Chapter.s 45: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [1]; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [3]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [3]–[5]; 2018 No 25, Sch 1.19 [1] [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[4].
46 Operation of this Chapter
This Chapter has effect in addition to and does not derogate from the requirements of any other Act, except as expressly provided in this or any other Act.
Part 3.2 Licences required for scheduled development work and scheduled activities
47 Licensing requirement—scheduled development work
(1) Offence A person who is the occupier of any premises at which scheduled development work is carried out is guilty of an offence unless the person is, at the time that work is carried out, the holder of a licence that authorises that work to be carried out at those premises.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.(2) Provisions relating to offences In proceedings for an offence arising under this section—(a) it is not necessary that it be established that the offence was committed on a particular day or on particular days, provided it is established that the offence was committed during a particular period, and(b) it is immaterial whether or not the work referred to in subsection (1) was or is completed.(3) Meaning of scheduled development work In this Act—scheduled development work means work at any premises at which scheduled activities are not carried on that is designed to enable scheduled activities to be carried on at the premises. However, scheduled development work—(a) also includes anything that is specified by the regulations as scheduled development work for the purposes of this Act, but(b) does not (despite the above) include anything that is specified by the regulations as not being scheduled development work for the purposes of this Act.s 47: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [6]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [1]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
48 Licensing requirement—scheduled activities (premises-based)
(1) Application of section This section applies to scheduled activities where Schedule 1 indicates that a licence is required for premises at which the activity is carried on.(2) Offence A person who is the occupier of any premises at which any such scheduled activity is carried on is guilty of an offence, unless the person is, at the time that activity is carried on, the holder of a licence that authorises that activity to be carried on at those premises.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (2) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 48: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [7]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
49 Licensing requirement—scheduled activities (not premises-based)
(1) Application of section This section applies to scheduled activities where Schedule 1 indicates that a licence is required to carry on the activity, but not for the premises at which the activity is carried on.(2) Offence A person who carries on any such scheduled activity is guilty of an offence, unless the person is, at the time that activity is carried on, the holder of a licence that authorises that activity to be carried on.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (2) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(3) Exception A person engaged in carrying on an activity by the holder of a licence that authorises that activity is not required to hold a licence for that activity.s 49: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [8]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [3]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
50 Timing of licensing of development requiring consent under EP&A Act
(1) Licensing of development controlled under EP&A Act This section applies to development that cannot be carried out without development consent under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. This development is called controlled development in this section.(2) Licence to be concurrent A licence that relates to controlled development must not be granted or varied (other than on the initiative of the EPA) by the appropriate regulatory authority, unless development consent has been granted for the controlled development. However, this section does not prevent the consideration of a licence application by the appropriate regulatory authority before development consent is granted.(3) Existing use Without limiting the above, this section does not apply to the extent that development consent is not necessary under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 because of an existing use.(4) Definitions In this section—development has the same meaning as in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.development consent means consent under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and includes approval to carry out a project or infrastructure under Part 3A or Division 5.2 of that Act.existing use has the same meaning as in Division 4.11 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.s 50: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [9] [10]; 2011 No 22, Sch 2.22 [1] [2]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[3] [4].
51 Integrated development
(1) The issue of a licence in relation to integrated development within the meaning of section 4.46 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 is subject to Division 4.8 of that Act.(2) A decision by the appropriate regulatory authority on whether it will issue a licence, or on the general terms of a licence it proposes to issue, in relation to integrated development is subject to the provisions of this Chapter (including section 45).(3) A person to whom such a licence is issued after the commencement of this section cannot question the validity of the licence on the ground of failure to comply with any relevant provisions of that Act in any legal proceedings except those commenced in the Land and Environment Court by the person before the end of the period within which an appeal under section 287 can be lodged against the decision to issue the licence.s 51: Am 1998 No 54, Sch 1.14 [1]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[5] [6].
52 Commencement of licensing requirements
(1) If, because of the enactment or the amendment or replacement of Schedule 1, it would become necessary for a person to be authorised by a licence to continue to carry out any work or activity, a licence is not required until the later of the following—(a) the end of the prescribed period after the commencement of Schedule 1 or of the amendment or replacement,(b) the relevant licence application (if any) made before the end of that period by the person has been finally determined.(2) The regulations may make provision excluding the issue of the licence from the application of Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.(3) This section does not apply to any work or activity for which a licence or approval was required, under an Act repealed by this Act, immediately before its repeal.Note—Schedule 5 makes provision for licences under an Act repealed by this Act to be taken to be licences issued under this Act.
Part 3.3 Issue, transfer and variation of licences
53 Application for issue of licence
(1) An application may be made to the appropriate regulatory authority for the issue of a licence.(2) The application must—(a) be made in or to the effect of a form approved by the appropriate regulatory authority, and(b) contain or be accompanied by such information as is required by the appropriate regulatory authority (as indicated in the form or in material accompanying the form), and(c) be accompanied by the fee prescribed by the regulations.s 53: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[7].
54 Application for transfer of licence
(1) An application may be made to the appropriate regulatory authority for the transfer of a licence to another person.Note—Section 59 requires the application to be made only with the consent in writing of the holder of the licence.(2) The application must—(a) be made in or to the effect of a form approved by the appropriate regulatory authority, and(b) contain or be accompanied by such information as is required by the appropriate regulatory authority (as indicated in the form or in material accompanying the form), and(c) be accompanied by the fee prescribed by the regulations.s 54: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[8].
55 Grant or refusal of application
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority may—(a) in relation to an application for the issue of a licence—(i) grant the application by issuing the licence, or(ii) refuse the application, and(b) in relation to an application for the transfer of a licence—(i) grant the application by transferring the licence, or(ii) refuse the application.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority must not refuse the application unless before doing so—(a) it has given notice to the applicant that it intends to do so, and(b) it has specified in that notice the reasons for its intention to do so, and(c) it has given the applicant a reasonable opportunity to make submissions in relation to the matter, and(d) it has taken into consideration any such submissions by the applicant.(3) If the appropriate regulatory authority grants an application for the transfer of a licence, the licence is, subject to any variation of the conditions of the licence under section 58(4), transferred subject to the conditions to which the licence is subject at the time of the transfer.Note—Section 287 enables appeals to be made in connection with licence applications within a specified period after the person is given notice of the decision concerned. The section provides that the person may appeal if the licence application is not determined within 60 days, and for the purposes of the appeal the licence application is taken to have been refused.s 55: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[9]–[11].
56 Premises to which licence applies
(1) A licence is to specify the premises to which it applies.(2) The premises so specified are to be the whole of the premises at which the activities authorised or controlled by the licence (and ancillary activities) are carried on.(3) Premises may be so specified whether or not they comprise a single allotment of land.(4) This section does not apply to a licence required under section 49 that is not related to premises.
57 Licence fees
(1) The holder of a licence must in each year pay to the appropriate regulatory authority, before the date prescribed by the regulations for the purpose, annual licence fees prescribed by or determined under the regulations.(2) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the payment of annual licence fees by instalments.(3) If an annual licence fee is to be determined by the appropriate regulatory authority under the regulations, the appropriate regulatory authority must, not less than one month before the date prescribed for payment of the fee, notify the holder of the licence of the fee so determined.(4) If the holder of a licence fails to pay an annual licence fee in accordance with this section, the appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing, require the holder to make good the default and, in addition, to pay to the appropriate regulatory authority in accordance with the notice an additional amount prescribed as a penalty for default.(5) If a fee or other amount due and payable under this Act or the regulations in relation to a licence is unpaid, the appropriate regulatory authority—(a) may recover the fee or other amount from the current holder of the licence (or the last holder of the licence if the licence has ceased to be in force), oras a debt.(b) may recover that part of the fee or other amount that relates to a period for which an earlier holder of the licence held the licence from that earlier holder,(6) This section does not apply to licences of a prescribed class or description.(7) Nothing in this section precludes the regulations from requiring payment of the first or other specified licence fee in respect of a shorter or longer period than 12 months. In that case, a reference in this Act to an annual fee is to be construed accordingly.Note—Schedule 2 contains regulation-making powers with respect to the amount of fees, including provision relating to the scheme known as “load-based licensing”.s 57: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [1]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [11].
58 Variation of licences
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority may vary a licence, including the conditions of the licence.(2) A variation includes the following—(a) attaching a condition to a licence, whether or not conditions are already attached to the licence,(b) substituting, omitting or amending a condition of a licence.(3) A licence may be varied—(a) on application and payment of the fee prescribed by the regulations by the holder of the licence, or(b) on the initiative of the appropriate regulatory authority.(3A) The regulations may also provide for the waiver or refund of the fee in the circumstances prescribed by the regulations.(4) A licence may be varied at any time during its currency, including on its being transferred to another person.(5) A licence is varied by notice in writing given to the holder of the licence.(6) If—(a) the variation of a licence will authorise a significant increase in the environmental impact of the activity authorised or controlled by the licence, andthe appropriate regulatory authority is to invite and consider public submissions before it varies the licence.(b) the proposed variation has not, for any reason, been the subject of environmental assessment and public consultation under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979,s 58: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[12] [13]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[9].
59 Restrictions on making applications
(1) An application for the issue of a licence that relates to premises may be made only by or with the consent in writing of the occupier of the premises.(2) An application for the variation of a licence may be made only by or with the consent in writing of the holder of the licence.(3) An application for the transfer of a licence may be made only with the consent in writing of the holder of the licence.
60 Requirement for further information
(1) If a licence application has been made, the appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing given to the applicant, require the applicant to supply to the appropriate regulatory authority such further information as the appropriate regulatory authority considers necessary and relevant to the application and specifies in the notice.(2) In this section—information includes plans and specifications.s 60: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [1]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [12].
61 Reasons to be given for grant or refusal of certain licence applications
(1) If a licence application (other than an application for the approval of the surrender of a licence) is granted or refused, any person may make a written request to the appropriate regulatory authority for the reasons for the grant or refusal of the application and the appropriate regulatory authority is to provide a written statement of the reasons to the person.(2) The regulations may make provision with respect to any such statement of reasons, including—(a) the time within which a request for reasons must be made or within which the statement of reasons must be provided, and(b) the matters to be set out in a statement of reasons, and(c) the cases in which a statement of reasons is not required to be provided.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), a statement of reasons is not required to be provided to a person if the person has already been notified of the reasons under section 55.s 61: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [2].
62 Copyright
On an application being made under this Chapter, the applicant, if not entitled to copyright, is taken to have indemnified all persons using the application and supporting documents in accordance with this Act, against any claim or action in respect of breach of copyright.Note—Schedule 2 enables regulations to be made with respect to the amendment or variation of applications under this Chapter.
Part 3.4 Licence conditions
63 Conditions
(1) A licence may be issued subject to conditions or unconditionally.Note—Section 58 deals with the variation of a licence so as to attach, substitute, omit or amend conditions.(2) A condition cannot be attached to a licence if compliance with the condition would result in a breach of a requirement made by or under this Act.(3) If the holder of a licence cannot meet any requirement made by or under this Act without contravening a condition of the licence, the holder is, by meeting the requirement, taken to comply with the condition.
64 Failure to comply with condition
(1) Offence If any condition of a licence is contravened by any person, each holder of the licence is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) Defence The holder of a licence is not guilty of an offence against this section if the holder establishes that—(a) the contravention of the condition was caused by another person, and(b) that other person was not associated with the holder at the time the condition was contravened, and(c) the holder took all reasonable steps to prevent the contravention of the condition.A person is associated with the holder for the purposes of paragraph (b) (but without limiting any other circumstances of association) if the person is an employee, agent, licensee, contractor or sub-contractor of the holder.(3) This section extends to conditions to which the suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence is subject under section 81, including a condition varied under section 81A.(4) For the purposes of subsection (3), a reference to the holder of the licence includes a reference to—(a) the former holder of the licence, and(b) another person required to comply with the condition or to whom the condition applies.s 64: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [13]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [4]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[14]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
Part 3.5 Particular licence conditions
65 Part not exclusive
This Part contains examples of conditions that can be attached to a licence. Accordingly, nothing in this Part prevents other conditions being attached to a licence.
66 Conditions requiring monitoring, certification or provision of information, and related offences
(1) Monitoring The conditions of a licence may require—(a) monitoring by the holder of the licence of the activity or work authorised, required or controlled by the licence, including with respect to—(i) the operation or maintenance of premises or plant, and(ii) discharges from premises, and(iii) relevant ambient conditions prevailing on or outside premises, and(iv) anything required by the conditions of the licence, and(b) the provision and maintenance of appropriate measuring and recording devices for the purposes of that monitoring, and(c) the analysis, reporting and retention of monitoring data.(2) False or misleading information A holder of a licence who supplies information, or on whose behalf information is supplied, to the appropriate regulatory authority under the conditions of the licence is guilty of an offence if the information is false or misleading in a material respect.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.(2A) Conditions relating to certain information The conditions of a licence may require the holder of a licence to supply to the appropriate regulatory authority information relating to a pollution incident to which Part 5.7 applies in addition to the information required under that Part.(3) Certification The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to supply to the appropriate regulatory authority a statement that is certified by the holder, by another person approved by that authority or by a person prescribed by the regulations, as correct and that states all or any of the following—(a) the extent to which the conditions of the licence, or any provisions of the regulations applicable to the activity or work authorised, required or controlled by the licence, have or have not been complied with,(b) particulars of any failure to comply with the conditions or any such regulations,(c) the reasons for any failure to comply with the conditions or any such regulations,(d) any action taken, or to be taken, to prevent any recurrence of that failure or to mitigate the effects of that failure,(e) the fee paid or payable in relation to the licence (including the manner of calculation of the fee or other specified aspect of the fee).(4) False or misleading certificates A person who gives a certificate for the purposes of a condition referred to in this section is guilty of an offence if any of the statements certified is false or misleading in a material respect.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$1,000,000, or(b) for an individual—$500,000.(5) Use of information or statements Any information or statements supplied to the appropriate regulatory authority for the purposes of a condition referred to in this section may be taken into consideration by that authority and used for the purposes of this Act. Without limiting the above, any such information and statements are admissible in evidence in any prosecution of the holder of the licence for any offence against this Act or the regulations, whether or not the information or statements might incriminate that holder.(6) Publication of results of monitoring The holder of a licence subject to a condition referred to in subsection (1) (a) must, within 14 days of obtaining monitoring data as referred to in that subsection—(a) if the holder maintains a website that relates to the business or activity the subject of the licence—make any of the monitoring data that relates to pollution, and the licensee’s name, publicly and prominently available on that website in accordance with any requirements issued in writing by the EPA, or(b) if the holder does not maintain such a website—provide a copy of any of the monitoring data that relates to pollution, to any person who requests a copy of the data, at no charge and in accordance with any requirements issued in writing by the EPA.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$20,000, or(b) for an individual—$10,000.(7) False or misleading publication of results A person who makes available or provides monitoring data in accordance with subsection (6) is guilty of an offence if the monitoring data is false or misleading in a material respect.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$20,000, or(b) for an individual—$10,000.Note—An offence against subsection (2) or (4) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 66: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [3]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [14]–[18]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [1]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [5]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[15]–[17]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7] [10].
67 Conditions for mandatory environmental audits
The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to comply with the requirements of a mandatory environmental audit program, in accordance with Chapter 6.
68 Conditions requiring pollution studies and reduction programs
(1) The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to undertake and submit to the appropriate regulatory authority studies into any aspect of the environmental impact of the activity or work authorised or controlled by the licence.(2) The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence—(a) to develop and submit to the appropriate regulatory authority a pollution reduction program and to comply with the program as approved by the appropriate regulatory authority, or(b) to comply with a pollution reduction program determined by the appropriate regulatory authority.(3) A pollution reduction program may include but is not limited to requirements to carry out works or to install plant for the purpose of preventing, controlling, abating or mitigating pollution.(4) The appropriate regulatory authority may approve a pollution reduction program with or without alterations.
69 Conditions relating to schemes for economic measures and environmental monitoring programs
The conditions of a licence may implement or otherwise relate to—(a) tradeable emission schemes, or(b) green offset schemes or works, or(c) other schemes involving economic measures, oras referred to in Part 9.3, 9.3A, 9.3B or 9.3C.(d) environmental monitoring programs,Note—Conditions relating to tradeable emission schemes or green offset schemes or works may also be attached to licences by the regulations (see Parts 9.3A and 9.3B).s 69: Am 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [1]. Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [19]. Am 2010 (85), Sch 1 [1] [2].
69A Chapter extends to licence conditions relating to chemicals
This chapter extends to the exercise of a function relating to licence conditions under Part 9.3E.s 69A: Am 2024 No 10, Sch 1[2].
70 Conditions for financial assurances
The conditions of a licence, including the conditions of the suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence, may require the holder or former holder of the licence to provide financial assurances, as provided by Part 9.4.s 70: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [20].
71 Conditions for remediation work on premises
The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to carry out remediation work in connection with the carrying out of the activities or works authorised or controlled by the licence.
72 Conditions for insurance cover
The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to take out and maintain a policy of insurance for the payment of costs for clean-up action, and for claims for compensation or damages, resulting from pollution in connection with the activity or work authorised or controlled by the licence.
73 Conditions to take effect later
(1) The conditions of a licence may provide that an authorisation conferred by the licence or a variation of the licence is not to take effect until the end of a specified period or on the happening of a particular event or on the occurrence of a specified state of affairs.(2) Without limiting the generality of the above, the conditions may provide that an authorisation or variation will not take effect until a financial assurance is provided in accordance with the condition.(3) This section is subject to section 84 (Date from which decision operates).
74 Conditions for positive covenants
The conditions of a licence may require the holder to enter into or arrange for a positive covenant under section 88E of the Conveyancing Act 1919, and to arrange for its registration, for the purpose of ensuring that specified requirements of a condition run with the land concerned.
75 Conditions relating to waste
(1) Information about waste The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to provide to the appropriate regulatory authority information relating to the creation, collection, storage, handling, transportation, treatment, processing, recovery, recycling, re-use or disposal of waste.(2) Environmental waste management plan The conditions of a licence may require the holder of the licence to prepare, and comply with, an environmental waste management plan. Such a plan is to set out the manner in which the holder proposes to carry out the activity or work authorised or controlled by the licence in order to achieve the required environmental outcomes, and may include a closure plan as referred to in section 76.Note—A draft plan may be required to accompany a licence application—see section 53.(3) (Repealed)(4) Waste received at premises The conditions of a licence may include the following—(a) conditions relating to the storage, handling or disposal of waste received at the premises to which the licence applies,(b) conditions requiring the holder of the licence to take only certain classes and quantities of waste at those premises, or requiring the holder to refuse to accept certain classes and quantities of waste at those premises,(c) conditions requiring the holder of the licence to provide incentives to encourage separation of waste delivered to those premises.(5) Other waste matters The conditions of a licence may include the following—(a) conditions relating to the storage, handling, treatment and processing of waste,(b) conditions imposing responsibility on the holder of the licence for the proper disposal of waste transported from the premises to which the licence applies,(c) conditions requiring the holder of the licence to report to the appropriate regulatory authority on any matters concerning waste transported from those premises,(d) conditions requiring the holder of the licence to implement a re-use, recovery, recycling or take-back and utilisation scheme in respect of any product or item manufactured or sold by the holder that creates waste.(6) Transporting waste The conditions of a licence may include the following—(a) conditions relating to the construction, maintenance and cleaning of any container, vehicle or vessel used by the holder of the licence to transport waste,(b) conditions relating to the times during which, the routes along which, and the waste facilities to which, waste may be transported by the holder of the licence,(c) conditions imposing responsibility on the holder of the licence for the proper handling and disposal of waste transported by the holder.s 75: Am 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [4]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [21]–[23].
76 Post-closure requirements for waste facilities or other licensed premises
(1) The conditions of a licence, including the conditions of the suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence, may require—(a) the holder of the licence to submit to the appropriate regulatory authority a closure plan in relation to the premises to which the licence applies or applied, and(b) the last licensee to implement a closure plan approved by the appropriate regulatory authority.(2) A closure plan in relation to premises that is required to be submitted to an appropriate regulatory authority under the conditions of a licence must—(a) specify the steps taken (or to be taken) in closing, stabilising or rehabilitating the premises and the time-frame for doing so, and(b) provide for a post-closure monitoring and maintenance program, and(c) identify any proposed future uses of the premises, and(d) comply with any other specified requirements relating to the plan.(3) The appropriate regulatory authority may approve the closure plan as submitted to it, or may vary the plan before approving it.(4) In this section—last licensee means the person who was the holder of a licence for any premises immediately before the licence ceased to be in force.s 76: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [24].
Part 3.6 Duration and review of licences
77 Duration of licence
(1) Once a licence comes into force, the licence remains in force until it is suspended, revoked or surrendered.(2) The licence is, while it remains in force, subject to any variations made to the licence under this Act.
78 Review of licences
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority is required to review each licence at intervals not exceeding 5 years after the issue of the licence.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority must give public notice of the licences that are to be reviewed as follows—(a) not less than 1 month, and not more than 6 months, before the review is undertaken, a notice of the review of each licence is to be published on the website of the EPA,(b) (Repealed)(c) the notice is to specify the activity or work to which the licence relates and the address of the premises (if any) at which it is carried out.(3) Any failure by the EPA to comply with the requirements of this section to review a licence is to be reported by the EPA to the Board of the EPA, and in the annual report of the EPA, together with a statement of reasons for the failure.(4) Any failure by a regulatory authority (other than the EPA) to comply with the requirements of this section to review a licence is to be reported to the EPA by that authority.(4A) The EPA must audit, on an industry wide or regional basis, compliance with licence requirements under this Act and whether such requirements reflect best practice in relation to the matters regulated by the licences.(5) Any failure to comply with the requirements of this section cannot be the subject of proceedings under this Act.s 78: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [25] [26]; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [3].
Part 3.7 Suspension, revocation and surrender of licences
79 Suspension or revocation of licence by appropriate regulatory authority
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority may suspend or revoke a licence during its currency.(2) A suspension or revocation of a licence is effected by notice in writing given to the holder of the licence.(3) A suspension may be for a specified period, or until the fulfilment of specified conditions, or until further order of the appropriate regulatory authority.(3A) A licence may be revoked during the currency of a suspension.(4) The appropriate regulatory authority is not required to give the holder of a licence notice of the authority’s intention to suspend or revoke the licence (whether with or without conditions imposed under section 81) before giving a notice under subsection (2).(5) The reasons for suspending or revoking a licence may include (but are not limited to) the following—(a) the holder of the licence has obtained the licence improperly,(a1) the holder of the licence has contravened this Act or regulations made under this Act,(b) a condition of the licence has been contravened,(c) the scheduled development work to which the licence relates has not been commenced or completed and the appropriate regulatory authority is of the opinion that it is no longer appropriate that the work be carried out or completed,(d) the activities covered by the licence are completed or no longer being carried on,(e) the holder has failed to pay the annual licence fee by the due date for its payment,(e1) the holder is liable to pay a contribution in respect of waste under section 88 and has failed to pay the contribution by the due date for its payment,(f) in the opinion of the appropriate regulatory authority, the holder of the licence is no longer a fit and proper person.Note—See section 83 for provisions relating to the determination of whether a person is a fit and proper person for the purposes of this section.(6) No fees are refundable on the suspension or revocation of a licence.s 79: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [2]; 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [1]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [27] [28]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [1]; 2018 No 25, Sch 1.19 [1] [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[11].
80 Surrender of licence
(1) A licence may, on the written application of the holder of the licence, be surrendered with the written approval of the appropriate regulatory authority.(1A) If an application for approval of the surrender of a licence has been made, the appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing given to the applicant, require the applicant to supply to the appropriate regulatory authority such further information as the appropriate regulatory authority considers necessary and relevant to the application and specifies in the notice.(1B) Without limiting the grounds for refusal, an appropriate regulatory authority may refuse an application for surrender of a licence relating to a scheduled activity if it is of the opinion that—(a) there will be an ongoing environmental impact arising from the activity after the activity ceases to be carried on, and(b) it is appropriate to manage that impact through conditions of the licence.(2) If an application for the approval of the surrender of a licence is granted or refused, any person may make a written request to the appropriate regulatory authority for the reasons for the grant or refusal of the application and the appropriate regulatory authority is to provide a written statement of the reasons to the person.(2A) The regulations may make provision with respect to any such statement of reasons, including—(a) the time within which a request for reasons must be made or within which the statement of reasons must be provided, and(b) the matters to be set out in a statement of reasons, and(c) the cases in which a statement of reasons is not required to be provided.(3) (Repealed)s 80: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [3] [4]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [4]; 2004 No 55, Sch 1.20 [1]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [29].
81 Conditions of suspension, revocation or surrender
(1) A licence may be suspended or revoked, or the surrender of a licence may be approved, unconditionally or subject to such conditions as the appropriate regulatory authority imposes.(2) Those conditions may include (but are not limited to) any conditions to which the licence was subject immediately before it was suspended, revoked or surrendered.(3) The appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing given to the former holder of the licence, attach new conditions to, or vary or revoke any existing conditions of, the suspension, revocation or surrender of the licence.Note—Section 64 makes it an offence to breach conditions under this section.
81A Variation of conditions of suspension, revocation or surrender to require other persons to carry out works, programs or activities
(1) This section applies if a condition of the suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence requires the holder, or former holder, of the licence to do any of the following—(a) carry out work or programs, including remediation work or pollution reduction programs,(b) provide a financial assurance under Part 9.4,(c) otherwise do an activity or thing.(2) A person other than the holder, or former holder, of the licence may apply to the appropriate regulatory authority to vary the condition to require the person, instead of or in addition to the holder, or former holder, of the licence to do any of the following—(a) carry out the work or programs,(b) provide the financial assurance,(c) do the activity or thing.(3) The application must be made with the written consent of the holder, or former holder, of the licence unless it is not reasonably practicable to obtain the consent of the holder, or former holder, of the licence.(4) The application must—(a) be made in the form approved by the appropriate regulatory authority, and(b) include or be accompanied by the information indicated in the form, or in material accompanying the form, as being required by the appropriate regulatory authority, and(c) be accompanied by the fee prescribed by the regulations.s 81A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[18].
82 Minister may suspend or revoke licence if holder convicted of major pollution offence
(1) If the holder of a licence is convicted of a major pollution offence, the Minister may, by notice in writing given to the holder—(a) revoke the licence, or(b) suspend the licence for such period as the Minister thinks fit.(2) In this section—major pollution offence means an offence the commission of which has caused or is likely to cause harm to the environment, being an offence punishable by a fine of $1,000,000 or more (in the case of a corporation) or $250,000 or more (in the case of an individual).s 82: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [30].
Part 3.8 Miscellaneous
83 Fit and proper persons
(1) This section has effect in determining whether a person is a fit and proper person for section 45(f), 79(5)(f) or 253B(1)(a) but does not limit the section.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may take into consideration any or all of the following—(a) whether the person has—(i) contravened environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation, or(ii) held a licence or other authority that has been suspended or revoked under environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation,(b) if the person is a corporation—whether a director or former director of the corporation or a related body corporate has—(i) contravened environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation, or(ii) held a licence or other authority that has been suspended or revoked under environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation,(c) if the person is a corporation—whether a director or former director of the corporation or a related body corporate is or has been the director of another corporation that has—(i) contravened environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation, or(ii) held a licence or other authority that has been suspended or revoked under environment protection legislation or other relevant legislation,(d) the person’s record of compliance with environment protection legislation,(e) if the person is a corporation—the record of compliance with environment protection legislation of each director or former director of the corporation or a related body corporate,(f) whether, in the appropriate regulatory authority’s opinion, the management of the activities or works that are or are to be authorised, required or regulated under the relevant licence will or will not be in the hands of a technically competent person,(g) whether, in the appropriate regulatory authority’s opinion, the person is of good repute, having regard to character, honesty and integrity,(h) if the person is a corporation—whether each director and former director of the corporation or a related body corporate is, in the appropriate regulatory authority’s opinion, of good repute, having regard to character, honesty and integrity,(i) whether the person, in the previous 10 years, has been convicted in New South Wales or elsewhere of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty,(j) if the person is a corporation—whether a director or former director of the corporation or a related body corporate, in the previous 10 years, has been convicted in New South Wales or elsewhere of an offence involving fraud or dishonesty,(k) whether the person, during the previous 3 years, was personally insolvent,(l) if the person is a corporation—whether a director or former director of the corporation or a related body corporate, during the previous 3 years and while a director of the corporation or related body corporate, was personally insolvent,(m) if the person is a corporation—whether the person or a related body corporate applied to take the benefit of a law for the relief of insolvent debtors or compounded with the person’s or body corporate’s creditors,(n) if the person is an individual—whether the person is or was a director of a corporation that—(i) is the subject of a winding up order, or(ii) has had a controller or administrator appointed during the previous 3 years,(o) if the person is a corporation—whether the corporation—(i) is the subject of a winding up order, or(ii) has had a controller or administrator appointed during the previous 3 years,(p) whether the person has demonstrated to the EPA the financial capacity to comply with the person’s obligations under or in connection with the licence or proposed licence,(q) whether the person is in partnership, in connection with activities that are subject to a licence or licence application, with a person whom the appropriate regulatory authority does not consider to be a fit and proper person under this section,(r) if the person is a corporation—whether a related body corporate is in partnership with a person whom the appropriate regulatory authority does not consider to be a fit and proper person under this section,(s) another ground prescribed by the regulations.(3) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a body corporate extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the body corporate.(4) Without limiting the generality of the above, the appropriate regulatory authority may disregard contraventions referred to in subsection (2) having regard to the seriousness of the contraventions, the length of time since they occurred, and other matters that appear relevant to the appropriate regulatory authority.(5) For the purposes of this section, other relevant legislation is any legislation declared by the regulations to be other relevant legislation for the purposes of this section. The regulations may so declare legislation that has been repealed or legislation of a place outside the State.s 83: Am 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [2]–[4]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [31]; 2018 No 25, Sch 1.19 [3]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[19]–[24]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[12].
84 Date from which decision operates
(1) A decision of the appropriate regulatory authority regarding a licence operates from the date of the decision or another date specified by the appropriate regulatory authority, except as provided by this section.(2) If an appeal is made against a decision of the appropriate regulatory authority to vary, suspend or revoke a licence, to approve or refuse the surrender of a licence subject to conditions, or to attach any new conditions to, or vary any conditions of, a suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence and the Land and Environment Court directs that the decision is stayed, the decision does not operate until the stay ceases to have effect or the Land and Environment Court confirms the decision or the appeal is withdrawn, whichever first occurs.(3) A decision of the appropriate regulatory authority to approve the surrender of a licence without any condition operates from the time the authority notifies the licensee in writing of the decision.(4) (Repealed)s 84: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [5]; 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [5] [6]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [32] [33].
85 Death of licensee
(1) If the holder of a licence dies, the legal personal representative of the holder or a person approved by the appropriate regulatory authority is taken to be the holder of the licence as if it had been transferred to the representative or person.(2) Subsection (1) does not prevent the suspension, revocation or surrender of the licence in accordance with this Act.
86 Notice for breach of licensing requirements
(1) If the occupier of any premises carries out work at the premises in contravention of Part 3.2, the appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing given to the occupier, require the occupier—(a) to remove the work that has been carried out, orwithin such time as may be specified in the notice.(b) to restore the premises to their previous state,(2) A notice under this section operates from the day the notice is given or from such later day as the notice specifies.(2A) If an appeal is made against a notice under this section and the Land and Environment Court directs that the notice is stayed, the notice does not operate until the stay ceases to have effect or the Land and Environment Court confirms the notice or the appeal is withdrawn, whichever first occurs.(3) A person who contravenes the requirements of a notice under this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (3) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 86: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [34] [35]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [6]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
87 (Repealed)
s 87: Am 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [5] [6]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [36]. Rep 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [5].
88 Contributions by licensee of waste facility
(1) This section applies to waste facilities that are required to be licensed under this Chapter.(2) The occupier of a waste facility to which this section applies is required to pay to the EPA in respect of all waste received at the facility such contribution as is prescribed by the regulations.(3) An occupier who fails to pay the whole or any part of the contribution payable by the occupier under this section—(a) in the manner (if any) prescribed by the regulations or as otherwise directed by the EPA by notice in writing given to the occupier, oris guilty of an offence.(b) within the time or at such intervals as prescribed by the regulations, or within the time or at such intervals as may be otherwise directed by the EPA by notice in writing given to the occupier,Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(4) (Repealed)(5) The regulations may—(a) provide for contributions to be calculated on such basis (including such estimates), and in accordance with such factors, as may be specified or described in the regulations, and(b) provide for the exemption of specified occupiers, or specified classes of occupiers, from the requirement to pay contributions, and(c) provide for the exemption of specified wastes from the calculation of contributions (including for example wastes that are recycled, re-used, recovered or processed), and(d) provide for the payment of rebates to specified occupiers or specified classes of occupiers.(6) Any contribution payable under this section becomes, if it is not paid in accordance with this section and the regulations, a debt due to the EPA that is recoverable in any court of competent jurisdiction.(7) Interest is payable on any unpaid contribution or any unpaid portion of the contribution under this section at such rate and calculated in such manner as may be prescribed by the regulations. Any such interest may be recovered in the same way as the contribution may be recovered.(8) In this section, liquid waste has the same meaning as it has in Schedule 1.s 88: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [37]–[41]; 2007 No 26, Sch 1 [1]–[3]; 2008 No 62, Sch 1.27 [1]; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [1]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
Chapter 4 Environment protection notices and other notices
ch 4, hdg: Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[13].
Part 4.1 Preliminary
89 Definitions
In this Chapter—clean-up notice means a notice under Part 4.2.compliance cost notice means a notice under Part 4.5.prevention notice means a notice under Part 4.3.prohibition notice means a notice under Part 4.4.
90 Classification of environment protection notices
Environment protection notices are of the following kinds—(a) clean-up notices,(b) prevention notices,(c) prohibition notices.Note—See also noise control notices under Part 8.6.
Part 4.1A Preliminary investigation notices
ch 4, pt 4.1A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90A Definitions
In this part—preliminary investigation compliance notice—see section 90G(1).preliminary investigation notice—see section 90B(2).relevant circumstances—see section 90B(1).s 90A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90B Issue of preliminary investigation notices
(1) This section applies if the EPA reasonably suspects any of the following circumstances (relevant circumstances) may exist or have existed at premises—(a) circumstances that may pose a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment from—(i) a substance, or(ii) the deposit of waste or substances suspected of being waste,(b) a pollution incident.(2) The EPA may issue a person referred to in subsection (3) with a written notice (a preliminary investigation notice) to facilitate the EPA carrying out a preliminary investigation to determine whether the relevant circumstances exist.(3) A preliminary investigation notice may be issued to—(a) an owner or occupier of the premises, or(b) a person who has caused or contributed to, to any extent, the relevant circumstances which are the subject of the notice.(4) A person to whom a preliminary investigation notice is issued must comply with the notice.Maximum penalty for subsection (4)—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.s 90B: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90C Preliminary investigation notice may be given orally
(1) The EPA may give a preliminary investigation notice orally.(2) A preliminary investigation notice given orally to a person ceases to have effect 72 hours after it was given to the person unless the notice is confirmed by the EPA by a written preliminary investigation notice.(3) A notice given orally under subsection (1)—(a) has the same effect as a written preliminary investigation notice, and(b) is taken to be a preliminary investigation notice.s 90C: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90D Content of preliminary investigation notices
(1) A preliminary investigation notice may require the person to whom it is issued to assist the EPA to—(a) investigate whether the relevant circumstances exist, and(b) if the relevant circumstances exist—determine the nature and extent of the relevant circumstances, including the nature and extent of any harm or risk of harm to human health or the environment arising from the relevant circumstances.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the preliminary investigation notice may require the person to whom it is issued to do the following—(a) collect samples of a substance and have the samples tested and analysed,(b) provide a report about the testing or analysis to the EPA,(c) preserve or prevent the disturbance of a specified substance or location at the premises for a period of time specified in the preliminary investigation notice, including—(i) moving a substance to a more secure location on the premises or on other premises, and(ii) restricting access to a substance or location, and(iii) preventing a substance from being removed from the premises.s 90D: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90E Preliminary investigation notices may be given to directors and related bodies corporate
(1) This section applies if —(a) a preliminary investigation notice (the previous preliminary investigation notice) has been given to a corporation by the EPA, and(b) the corporation has not complied with the previous preliminary investigation notice within the period specified in the notice.(2) The EPA may, by written notice (the supplementary preliminary investigation notice), direct 1 or more of the following to carry out, or ensure the carrying out of, the action specified in the preliminary investigation notice within the period specified in the notice—(a) a current director of the corporation,(b) a former director of the corporation,(c) a related body corporate.(3) The supplementary preliminary investigation notice may also require the person to whom the notice is given to provide reports to the EPA about progress on the carrying out of the action specified in the notice.(4) If the person given a supplementary preliminary investigation notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused, or solely caused, the relevant circumstances, the cost, or part of the cost, of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from another person who caused or contributed to the relevant circumstances.(5) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a corporation extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation.s 90E: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90F Action by EPA to comply with preliminary investigation notice
If a person does not comply with a preliminary investigation notice given to the person or the EPA otherwise believes it would be appropriate, the EPA may—(a) take action to comply with the notice itself or by its employees, agents or contractors, and(b) recover the relevant costs under sections 90G and 90H.s 90F: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90G Preliminary investigation compliance notices
(1) If the EPA gives a preliminary investigation notice to a person, the EPA may, by written notice (a preliminary investigation compliance notice) given to the person, require the person to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the EPA in connection with—(a) taking action or monitoring under the preliminary investigation notice, and(b) ensuring the notice is complied with, and(c) other associated matters.(2) If the EPA takes action under section 90F because a preliminary investigation notice is not complied with or the EPA otherwise believes it would be appropriate, the EPA may, by written notice, require the person to whom the notice was given or a person who caused or contributed to the relevant circumstances to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the EPA in taking the action.s 90G: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90H Recovery of amounts
(1) The EPA may recover any unpaid amounts specified in a preliminary investigation compliance notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(2) If the person given a preliminary investigation compliance notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused or contributed to the relevant circumstances, the cost of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from the person who caused or contributed to the relevant circumstances.s 90H: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
90I Recovery of other costs
(1) This section applies if—(a) a person (the first person) carries out the requirements of a preliminary investigation notice, and(b) another person (the second person) is issued an environment protection notice or recall notice in relation to the relevant circumstances the subject of the preliminary investigation notice.(2) The first person may recover the first person’s costs in carrying out the requirements from the second person if the second person contributed to the relevant circumstances.(3) For this section, the costs of the first person in carrying out the requirements of the preliminary investigation notice include any amount for which the first person is liable, or reasonable cost the first person has a duty to meet, under section 90G.s 90I: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[14].
Part 4.2 Clean-up notices
91 Clean-up by owners and occupiers of premises and polluters
(1) Notices The appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing, do 1 or more of the following—(a) direct an owner or occupier of premises at or from which the authority reasonably suspects that a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring,(b) direct a person who is reasonably suspected by the authority of causing or having caused a pollution incident,to take such clean-up action as is specified in the notice and within such period as is specified in the notice.(c) direct a person who is reasonably suspected by the authority of contributing, to any extent, to a pollution incident,Note—pollution incident and clean-up action are defined in the Dictionary.(1A) The appropriate regulatory authority may give a clean-up notice to a person under subsection (1)(c)—(a) whether or not another person has been given a clean-up notice in relation to the pollution incident, and(b) whether or not another person contributed to the pollution incident.(1B) Without limiting subsection (1), a clean-up notice given to a person under subsection (1)(c) may require the person to carry out clean-up actions to completely prevent, minimise, remove, disperse, destroy or mitigate pollution resulting or likely to result from the incident irrespective of the nature or extent of the person’s contribution to the incident.(2) Notices by EPA in emergency The EPA may, if it considers that it is necessary to do so because of an emergency, give the clean-up notice even if it is not the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to the pollution incident.(3) Reports The clean-up notice may require the person to whom the notice is given to furnish reports to the appropriate regulatory authority regarding progress on the carrying out of the clean-up action.(4) If the person given a clean-up notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused, or solely caused, the pollution incident, the cost, or part of the cost, of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from any person who caused or contributed to the pollution incident.(5) (Repealed)Note—See also section 144AG, which provides that this part applies to the depositing of litter or waste referred to in section 144AE(1) or the depositing of litter under Part 5.6A as if the depositing of the litter or waste were a pollution incident.s 91: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [42]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [7]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [2]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[25]–[30]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[15] [16].
91A Clean-up notices may be given to directors and related bodies corporate
(1) This section applies if —(a) a clean-up notice (the previous clean-up notice) has been given to a corporation—(i) by the appropriate regulatory authority under section 91(1), or(ii) by the EPA under section 91(2), and(b) the corporation has not complied with the previous clean-up notice within the period specified in the notice.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may, by written notice (the supplementary clean-up notice), direct 1 or more of the following to carry out, or ensure the carrying out of, the clean-up action specified in the notice within the period specified in the notice—(a) a current director of the corporation,(b) a former director of the corporation,(c) a related body corporate.(3) The supplementary clean-up notice may require the person to whom the notice is given to provide reports to the appropriate regulatory authority about progress on the carrying out of the clean-up action.(4) If the EPA considers it necessary for the purposes of responding to an emergency, the EPA may give a supplementary clean-up notice under this section regardless of whether the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority in relation to the pollution incident.(5) If the person given a supplementary clean-up notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused, or solely caused, the pollution incident, the cost, or part of the cost, of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from another person who caused or contributed to the pollution incident.(6) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a corporation extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation.s 91A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[31]. Am 2023 No 30, Sch 2.5[1].
91B Offence
A person who, without reasonable excuse, does not comply with a clean-up notice given to the person is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 91B: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[31]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
92 Clean-up by public authorities
(1) Directions to public authorities to take clean-up action If the EPA reasonably suspects that a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring, the EPA may, by notice in writing, direct a public authority to take such clean-up action as is specified in the notice. The public authority is authorised and required to take that action.(2) Voluntary clean-up action by public authorities If a public authority reasonably suspects that a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring, the public authority may take such clean-up action as it considers necessary. The public authority is authorised to take that action, whether or not it is directed to take clean-up action under subsection (1).(3) Operation of section Notices may be given, and action may be taken, under this section—(a) whether or not the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to the pollution incident, and(b) whether or not a clean-up notice has been given under section 91, and (if such a notice has been given) whether or not the period specified in the notice under that section has ended.(4) Taking of clean-up action A public authority may take clean-up action under this section by itself or by its employees, agents or contractors.(5) Definition In this section—does not include a State owned corporation or the lessor of a transacted distribution system or transacted transmission system under the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015.s 92: Am 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [2].
93 Clean-up directions may be given orally
(1) Oral directions A regulatory authority may, instead of giving a direction under this Part by notice in writing, give the direction orally.(2) Manner of giving oral direction A direction that can be given orally under this Part by a regulatory authority can be given orally by a person who is acting under delegated or other authority from the authority.(3) Reduction to writing A direction given orally to a person ceases to have effect on the expiration of 72 hours from the time it was given unless confirmed by the regulatory authority who gave the direction orally by a written clean-up notice given to the person.(4) Effect of oral direction A direction given orally has the same effect as a direction given by notice in writing, and is taken to be a clean-up notice.s 93: Am 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [7].
93A Development consent and approval not required for clean-up action
(1) This section applies if—(a) under this part, a person is required to take clean-up action, and(b) the carrying out of the clean-up action would, but for this section, require consent or approval under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.(2) Despite the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 or an instrument made under that Act, consent or approval under that Act or instrument is not required to carry out the clean-up action.s 93A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[17].
94 Fee
(1) The purpose of this section is to enable a regulatory authority to recover the administrative costs of preparing and giving clean-up notices.(2) A person who is given a clean-up notice by a regulatory authority must within 30 days pay the prescribed fee to the authority.(3) The regulatory authority may—(a) extend the time for payment of the fee, on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies, or(b) waive payment of the whole or any part of the fee, on the authority’s own initiative or on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies.(4) A person who does not pay the fee within the time provided under this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.Note—Section 110 (5) provides that a fee is not payable for the variation of an environment protection notice under this Chapter.s 94: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [43] [44].
Part 4.2A Recall notices
ch 4, pt 4.2A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94A Definitions
In this part—recall cost notice—see section 94M(1).recall notice—see section 94B.supply chain participant—see section 94C(1)(c).s 94A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94B Issue of recall notice
The EPA may, with the approval of the Minister, issue a notice (a recall notice) if, in the EPA’s opinion, 1 or more of the following grounds apply—(a) either—(i) a substance poses a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment, or(ii) a particular use of, or activity involving, the substance poses a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment,(b) a substance—(i) is required by environment protection legislation or a national environment protection measure to comply with a prescribed standard or other specific requirements, and(ii) does not comply with the standard or other requirements,(c) environment protection legislation has been contravened,(d) another matter prescribed by the regulations.s 94B: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94C Content of recall notice
(1) A recall notice must—(a) identify the substance the subject of the notice, and(b) state the reason under section 94B the recall notice has been issued, and(c) identify the persons or class of persons (both supply chain participants) who are subject to the recall notice, and(d) give information or advice about how to minimise the risk of potential harm from the substance, and(e) state the actions required to be taken by the supply chain participants who are subject to the recall notice, and(f) include any other matters prescribed by the regulations.(2) For subsection (1)(c), the recall notice may identify the supply chain participants in either or both of the following ways—(a) specifically by name,(b) by reference to a class of persons.s 94C: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94D Application of recall notice to supply chain participants
A recall notice may apply to any supply chain participant involved in the supply chain of the substance, including a supply chain participant—(a) producing, generating, processing or reprocessing the substance, including processing or reprocessing the substance with other substances or by mixing the substance with other substances, or(b) selling, distributing, transporting, supplying, resupplying or storing the substance, or(c) receiving or processing the substance, whether or not to supply the substance to another person, or(d) making the substance available or providing the substance to another person.s 94D: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94E Actions required by recall notice
For section 94C(1)(e), a recall notice may require a supply chain participant who is subject to the notice to do any of the following—(a) stop supplying the substance, or a particular batch of the substance, immediately or within a specified time,(b) take action to recover the substance from another person and return the substance to—(i) the supply chain participant’s premises, or(ii) another specified location,(c) take specified action in relation to the substance, including—(i) sampling, testing, remediating or disposing of the substance, or(ii) moving the substance to a specified location,(d) give information and records to the EPA about—(i) who the supply chain participant has supplied the substance to, and(ii) the supply chain for the substance,(e) if the substance cannot be recalled from a person who has received a supply of the substance—take specified actions, including the following—(i) securing the substance at its current location,(ii) taking action or giving information to the person to prevent or minimise the likelihood of the substance causing harm to human health or the environment,(f) publish, in a form approved by the EPA—(i) warnings that the substance is being recalled on the basis of 1 or more of the grounds referred to in section 94B(a)–(d), and(ii) other specified particulars, including the following—(A) batch numbers or other identifying particulars of the substance,(B) information about preventing or minimising the likelihood of the substance causing harm to human health or the environment,(C) information about the recall of the substance,(g) control the movement of the substance at premises used or controlled by the supply chain participant, including the following—(i) isolating the substance from other substances,(ii) securing, or restricting or preventing access to, the substance in place,(iii) prohibiting the movement of the substance on the premises at which the substance is located or to other premises,(h) not produce the substance for a specified period,(i) report on compliance with the recall notice,(j) if the supply chain participant has received supply or resupply of the substance—not supply the substance to another person,(k) take the following action and provide evidence of the action taken—(i) action to dispose of the substance at a facility that can lawfully receive the substance,(ii) action to destroy the substance,(l) another action prescribed by the regulations.s 94E: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94F Publication of recall notice
(1) A recall notice must be published—(a) on the EPA’s website, and(b) if the EPA considers it necessary to publish the notice in other ways to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in a particular part of the State—in other ways the EPA is satisfied are likely to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in that part of the State.(2) A recall notice takes effect—(a) when the notice is published on the EPA’s website, or(b) on a later date specified in the notice.(3) A recall notice must also be published in the Gazette as soon as practicable after the notice is published on the EPA’s website.s 94F: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94G Recall notices may be given to directors and related bodies corporate
(1) This section applies if —(a) a recall notice (the previous recall notice) has been issued by the EPA in relation to a supply chain participant that is a corporation, and(b) the corporation has not complied with the previous recall notice within the period specified in the notice.(2) The EPA may, by written notice (the supplementary recall notice), direct 1 or more of the following to carry out, or ensure the carrying out of, the action specified in the recall notice within the period specified in the notice—(a) a current director of the supply chain participant,(b) a former director of the supply chain participant,(c) a related body corporate.(3) The supplementary recall notice may also require the person to whom the notice is given to provide reports to the EPA about progress on the carrying out of the action specified in the notice.(4) If the person given a supplementary recall notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused, or solely caused, the circumstances the subject of the recall notice, the cost, or part of the cost, of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from another person who caused or contributed to the relevant circumstances.(5) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a supply chain participant that is a corporation extends to a person involved in the management of the corporation.s 94G: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94H Development consent and approval not required for action under recall notice
(1) This section applies if—(a) under this part, a person is required to take action under a recall notice, and(b) the carrying out of the action would, but for this section, require consent or approval under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.(2) Despite the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 or an instrument made under that Act, consent or approval under that Act or instrument is not required to carry out the action under the recall notice.s 94H: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94I Public authority may take action in relation to recall notice
(1) This section applies if—(a) a supply chain participant is given a recall notice, and(b) either—(i) the supply chain participant does not comply with the notice, or(ii) the EPA or a public authority otherwise considers it would be appropriate for the EPA or public authority to take action required under the recall notice.(2) The EPA may take action required under the recall notice if the EPA considers it appropriate to take the action.(3) The public authority may take action required under the recall notice if the public authority—(a) is directed by the EPA to take the action, or(b) otherwise considers it appropriate to take the action.s 94I: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94J Costs of complying with recall notice
(1) A supply chain participant to whom a recall notice is given must pay the participant’s own costs of complying with the notice.(2) To avoid doubt, subsection (1) does not prevent the supply chain participant from recovering costs, or making another claim for damages or compensation, to which the supply chain participant may be entitled other than under this Act.(3) If the EPA or a public authority takes action to comply with a recall notice itself or its officers, employees or contractors take the action, the EPA or public authority may recover the relevant costs under sections 94M and 94N.s 94J: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94K Reviews and appeals
For this part—(a) a decision by the Minister or EPA is not an administratively reviewable decision for the Administrative Decisions Review Act 1997, and(b) in proceedings for judicial review or other provisions, a court or tribunal must not make an interlocutory order that has the effect of staying the operation of a recall notice.s 94K: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94L Failure to comply with recall notice
A supply chain participant who is subject to a recall notice must, unless the participant has a reasonable excuse, comply with the notice.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.s 94L: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94M Recall cost notices
(1) The EPA or a public authority may, by written notice (a recall cost notice), require the supply chain participant to whom a recall notice is given to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the EPA or public authority in connection with—(a) taking action or monitoring under the recall notice, and(b) ensuring the notice is complied with, and(c) other associated matters.(2) If the EPA or a public authority takes action under subsection (1), the EPA or public authority may, by written notice given to the supply chain participant to whom the recall notice was given, require the participant to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the EPA or public authority in taking the action.s 94M: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94N Recovery of amounts
The EPA or a public authority may recover any unpaid amounts specified in a recall cost notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.s 94N: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
94O Voluntary recalls
(1) A person involved in the supply chain of a substance may initiate a voluntary recall of the substance if the person considers it necessary or appropriate, including if—(a) either—(i) the substance poses a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment, or(ii) a particular use of, or activity involving, the substance poses a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment, or(b) the substance—(i) is required by environment protection legislation or a national protection measure to comply with a prescribed standard or other specific requirements, and(ii) does not comply with the standard or other requirements, or(c) environment protection legislation has been contravened, or(d) another matter prescribed by a regulation under section 94B(d) applies.(2) If a person initiates a voluntary recall, the person must immediately give the EPA written notice of the recall.(3) The notice must include the following information—(a) that a voluntary recall is occurring,(b) details of the substance that is subject to the recall,(c) if the substance may pose a risk to human health or the environment—the circumstances in which the substance may pose the risk and the nature of the risk,(d) if the substance does not comply with a prescribed standard or other requirements—the nature of the non-compliance,(e) any information or advice for minimising any risk to human health or the environment posed by the substance,(f) the nature of the actions being taken by the person as part of the recall,(g) any other matters prescribed by the regulations.(4) If the EPA is given notice about a voluntary recall of a substance, the EPA must publish information about the recall on the EPA’s website.(5) A voluntary recall under this section does not prevent the EPA from issuing a recall notice to the person in relation to the same substance or matter.s 94O: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[18].
Part 4.3 Prevention notices
95 Meaning of environmentally unsatisfactory manner
For the purposes of this Part an activity is carried on in an environmentally unsatisfactory manner if—(a) it is carried on in contravention of, or in a manner that is likely to lead to a contravention of, this Act, the regulations or a condition attached to an environment protection licence (including a condition of a surrender of a licence) or an exemption given under this Act or the regulations, or(b) it causes, or is likely to cause, a pollution incident, or(c) it is not carried on by such practicable means as may be necessary to prevent, control or minimise pollution, the emission of any noise or the generation of waste, or(d) it is not carried on in accordance with good environmental practice.s 95: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [45].
96 Preventive action
(1) Application of section This section applies when the appropriate regulatory authority reasonably suspects that an activity has been or is being carried on in an environmentally unsatisfactory manner at any premises or by any person (otherwise than at premises).(2) Prevention notices The appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing, do either or both of the following—(a) direct the occupier of the premises,to take such action, as is specified in the notice and within such period (if any) as is specified in the notice, to ensure that the activity is carried on in future in an environmentally satisfactory manner.(b) direct the person carrying on the activity (whether or not at premises),(3) Examples The action to be taken may (without limitation) include any of the following—(a) installing, repairing, altering, replacing, maintaining or operating control equipment or other plant,(b) modifying, or carrying out any work on, plant,(c) ceasing to use plant or altering the way plant is used,(d) ceasing to carry on or not commencing to carry on an activity,(e) carrying on an activity in a particular manner,(f) carrying on an activity only during particular times,(g) monitoring, sampling or analysing any pollution or otherwise ascertaining the nature and extent of pollution or the risk of pollution,(h) action with respect to the transportation, collection, reception, re-use, recovery, recycling, processing, storage or disposal of any waste or other substance,(i) preparing and carrying out a plan of action to control, prevent or minimise pollution or waste,(j) reviewing the carrying out of an activity.(3A) Water pollution considerations The appropriate regulatory authority, when determining the action to be specified in a notice relating to an activity that causes, is likely to cause or has caused water pollution, must consider—(a) the environmental values of water affected by the activity, and(b) the practical measures that could be taken to restore or maintain those environmental values, and(c) if the appropriate regulatory authority is not the EPA—any guidelines issued by the EPA to the authority relating to the exercise of functions under this section.(4) Occupier’s duty If the occupier who is given a notice is not the person carrying on the activity, the notice is taken to require the occupier to take all available steps to cause the action to be taken.(5) Reports A prevention notice may require the person to whom the notice is given to furnish reports to the appropriate regulatory authority regarding progress on carrying out the action required to be taken by the notice.s 96: Am 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [1]; 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [8]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [46]–[48].
96A Prevention notices may be given to directors and related bodies corporate
(1) This section applies if —(a) the appropriate regulatory authority has given a prevention notice under section 96 (the previous prevention notice) to a corporation in relation to an activity, and(b) the corporation has not complied with the previous prevention notice within the period specified in the notice.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may, by written notice (the supplementary prevention notice), direct 1 or more of the following to take the action specified in the notice within the period, if any, specified in the notice to ensure that the activity is carried on in future in an environmentally satisfactory manner—(a) a current director of the corporation,(b) a former director of the corporation,(c) a related body corporate.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), the action to be taken may include any of the actions specified in section 96(3).(4) When determining the action to be specified in the supplementary prevention notice, the appropriate regulatory authority must consider the matters specified in section 96(3A).(5) The supplementary prevention notice may require the person to whom the notice is given to provide reports to the appropriate regulatory authority about progress on the carrying out of the clean-up action.(6) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a corporation extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation.s 96A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[32].
97 Offence
A person who does not comply with a prevention notice given to the person is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 97: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [49]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [8]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
98 Action in event of failure to comply
If a person does not comply with a prevention notice given to the person, the appropriate regulatory authority may take action to cause the notice to be complied with by itself or by its employees, agents or contractors.
99 Commencement of operation of prevention notices or variations
(1) A prevention notice, or a variation of a prevention notice, operates from the day the notice or notice of the variation is given or from such later day as the notice specifies.(2) If an appeal is made against a prevention notice or the variation of a prevention notice and the Land and Environment Court directs that the notice is stayed, the notice or variation does not operate until the stay ceases to have effect or the Land and Environment Court confirms the notice or the appeal is withdrawn, whichever first occurs.s 99: Subst 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [6]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [50].
100 Fee
(1) The purpose of this section is to enable a regulatory authority to recover the administrative costs of preparing and giving prevention notices.(2) A person who is given a prevention notice by a regulatory authority must within 30 days pay the prescribed fee to the authority.(3) The regulatory authority may—(a) extend the time for payment of the fee, on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies, or(b) waive payment of the whole or any part of the fee, on the authority’s own initiative or on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies.(4) The fee is not payable during the currency of an appeal against the prevention notice.(5) If the decision of the Court on an appeal does not invalidate the prevention notice, the fee is payable within 30 days of the decision.(6) A person who does not pay the fee within the time provided under this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.Note—Section 110 (5) provides that a fee is not payable for the variation of an environment protection notice under this Chapter.s 100: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [51] [52].
Part 4.4 Prohibition notices
101 Prohibition on activities
(1) Application of section This section applies if the EPA recommends to the Minister that a notice be given under this section because, in the EPA’s opinion, the emission or discharge of pollutants from or within a premises, or class of premises, in which an activity is carried on—(a) is causing or is likely to cause such harm to the environment, or(b) is or is likely to be so injurious to public health, orthat the giving of the notice is warranted.(c) is causing or is likely to cause such discomfort or inconvenience to any persons not associated with the management or operation of the activity,(2) Notice The Minister may, by written notice, direct, for the period, if any, specified in the notice—(a) the occupier of the premises, or occupiers of a class of premises, to cease carrying on the activity, or a specified aspect of the activity, at the premises or at premises of the class of premises, or(b) direct the person, or persons of a class of persons, carrying on the activity to cease carrying on the activity, or a specified aspect of the activity, at any premises.(3) Occupier’s duty If the occupier who is given a notice is not the person carrying on the activity, the notice is taken to require the occupier to take all available steps to cause the activity to cease.(4) Further notice The Minister may give further notices on the expiry of the period of the earlier notice if the EPA recommends in accordance with this section that the further notices be given.s 101: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[33] [34].
101A Prohibition notices may be given to directors and related bodies corporate
(1) This section applies if —(a) the Minister has given a prohibition notice under section 101 to a corporation, and(b) the corporation has not complied with the prohibition notice.(2) If the EPA remains satisfied of the matters stated in section 101(1), the EPA may recommend to the Minister that a notice be given under this section to any of the following persons—(a) a current director of the corporation,(b) a former director of the corporation,(c) a related body corporate.(3) On the EPA’s recommendation, the Minister may, by written notice, direct the current or former director, or the related body corporate, to do 1 or more of the following—(a) cease carrying on the activity, or a specified aspect of the activity, for the period, if any, specified in the notice,(b) take all available steps to end the carrying on of the activity, or a specified aspect of the activity, for the period, if any, specified in the notice.(4) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a corporation extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation.s 101A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[35].
102 Offence
A person who, without reasonable excuse, does not comply with a prohibition notice given to the person is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 102: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [53]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [9]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
103 Action in event of failure to comply
If a person does not comply with a prohibition notice given to the person, the EPA may take action to cause the notice to be complied with by itself or by its employees, agents or contractors.
Part 4.5 Compliance cost
104 Compliance cost notices
(1) Clean-up notice—monitoring or compliance costs The appropriate regulatory authority that gives a clean-up notice to a person may, by notice in writing, require the person to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the authority in connection with—(a) monitoring action under the notice, and(b) ensuring that the notice is complied with, and(c) any other associated matters.(2) Clean-up by public authority A public authority that takes clean-up action under section 92 may, by written notice, require 1 or more of the following persons to pay all or part of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the public authority in connection with the clean-up action—(a) the occupier of the premises at or from which the authority reasonably suspects the pollution incident occurred,(b) a person who is reasonably suspected by the authority of having caused or contributed to the pollution incident.(3) Prevention notice—monitoring or compliance costs The appropriate regulatory authority that gives a prevention notice to a person may, by notice in writing, require the person to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the authority in connection with—(a) monitoring action under the notice, and(b) ensuring that the notice is complied with, and(c) any other associated matters.(4) Prevention notice or prohibition notice—non-compliance A regulatory authority that takes action under section 98 because a prevention notice is not complied with or takes action under section 103 because a prohibition notice is not complied with may, by notice in writing, require the person to whom the notice was given to pay all or any reasonable costs and expenses incurred by it in taking the action.Note—See also section 608 of the Local Government Act 1993 for charges for inspection of premises by a local council in the exercise of its functions as a regulatory authority.s 104: Am 2009 No 56, Sch 1.32 [1]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[36] [37].
105 Recovery of amounts
(1) Recovery of unpaid amounts A regulatory authority or public authority may recover any unpaid amounts specified in a compliance cost notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(2) Recovery by person given notice If the person given a compliance cost notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused or contributed to the pollution or pollution incident, the cost of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from the person who caused or contributed to the pollution or pollution incident.s 105: Am 2023 No 30, Sch 2.5[2].
106 Registration of compliance cost notices in relation to land
(1) If a compliance cost notice has been given by a regulatory authority or a public authority to a person, the authority may apply to the Registrar-General for registration of the notice in relation to any land owned by the person.(2) An application under this section must define the land to which it relates.(3) The Registrar-General must, on application under this section and lodgment of a copy of the compliance cost notice, register the notice in relation to the land in such manner as the Registrar-General thinks fit.(4) If the notice relates to land under the provisions of the Real Property Act 1900, the notice is to be registered under that Act.
107 Charge on land subject to compliance cost notice
(1) Application of section This section applies where a compliance cost notice is registered under section 106, on the application of a regulatory authority or public authority, in relation to particular land owned by a person.(2) Creation of charge There is created by force of this section, on the registration of the notice, a charge on the land in relation to which the notice is registered to secure the payment to the regulatory authority or public authority of the amount specified in the notice.(3) When charge ceases to have effect Such a charge ceases to have effect in relation to the land—(a) on payment to the regulatory authority or public authority of the amount concerned, or(b) on the sale or other disposition of the property with the written consent of the authority, orwhichever first occurs.(c) on the sale of the land to a purchaser in good faith for value who, at the time of the sale, has no notice of the charge,(4) Charge is subject to existing charges and encumbrances Such a charge is subject to every charge or encumbrance to which the land was subject immediately before the notice was registered.(5) Charge not affected by change of ownership Such a charge is not affected by any change of ownership of the land, except as provided by subsection (3).(6) Registration of charge is notice If—(a) such a charge is created on land of a particular kind and the provisions of any law of the State provide for the registration of title to, or charges over, land of that kind, anda person who purchases or otherwise acquires the land after the registration of the charge is, for the purposes of subsection (3), taken to have notice of the charge.(b) the charge is so registered,(7) Removal of charge The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the removal of a charge under this section.(8) Recovery of costs relating to charge A regulatory authority or public authority that lodges or registers a compliance cost notice under section 106 may, by notice in writing, require the person to whom the compliance cost notice was given to pay all or any of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the authority in respect of the lodgment or registration of the compliance cost notice and the registration of any resulting charge (including the costs of discharging the charge). The regulatory authority or public authority may recover any unpaid amounts specified in the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.s 107: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [54].
Part 4.6 Miscellaneous
108 Multiple notices
More than one notice under a provision of this Chapter may be given to the same person.
108A Single notice for multiple pollution incidents
(1) A single notice under this chapter may be given by the EPA to a person in relation to—(a) pollution incidents that relate to—(i) multiple premises in the same or different local government areas, or(ii) the whole of the State or a part of the State, or(b) matters involving the transport, storage, supply, processing, reprocessing or disposal of a substance or waste across—(i) multiple premises in the same or different local government areas, or(ii) the whole of the State or a part of the State.(2) For subsection (1)(a), pollution incidents that relate to multiple premises, or the whole of the State or a part of the State, may be treated as 1 pollution incident.(3) To avoid doubt, the EPA may issue a notice under subsection (1) even if the EPA is not the appropriate regulatory authority for all the areas, premises, activities or matters—(a) to which the pollution incidents relate, or(b) involved in the transport, storage, supply, processing, reprocessing or disposal of the substance or waste.s 108A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[19].
109 Extraterritorial application
A notice may be given under this Chapter to a person in respect of a matter or thing even though the person is outside the State or the matter or thing occurs or is located outside the State, so long as the matter or thing affects the environment of this State.
109A Interaction of notices with proceedings for offences
A notice under this chapter, including the variation of a notice under section 110, may be given to a person in relation to an activity, matter, thing or premises even though the activity, matter, thing or premises are also the subject of proceedings for an offence.s 109A: Ins 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [7]. Rep 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [5]. Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[20].
110 Revocation or variation
(1) A notice given under this Chapter may be revoked or varied by a subsequent notice or notices.(2) A notice may be varied by—(a) including a new term or specification in the notice, or(b) substituting, omitting or amending a term or specification in the notice.(3) Without limiting the above, a notice may be varied by extending the time for complying with the notice.(4) A notice may only be revoked or varied by the Minister or by the regulatory authority or public authority that gave it.(5) A fee is not payable for the variation of an environment protection notice under this Chapter.s 110: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [55]; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [1]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[21].
111 Power to enter land
(1) A regulatory authority or public authority may, by its employees, agents or contractors, enter any premises at any reasonable time for the purpose of exercising its functions under this Chapter.(2) For the purpose of entering or leaving any such premises, the power conferred by this section extends to entering other premises.(3) A power to enter premises conferred by this section authorises entry by foot or by means of a motor vehicle or other vehicle, or in any other manner.(4) Entry may be effected under this section by an authority with the aid of such authorised officers or police officers as the authority considers necessary and with the use of reasonable force.
112 Obstruction of persons
A person who wilfully delays or obstructs—(a) a person who is carrying out any action in compliance with a notice under this chapter, or another person authorised by the person to carry it out, or(b) a public authority that is taking action under Part 4.2 or 4.2A, or another person authorised by the authority to carry it out, oris guilty of an offence.(c) a regulatory authority that is taking action under Part 4.1A or 4.2A or section 98 or 103, or another person authorised by the authority to take the action,Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 112: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [56]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [10]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8] [22]–[24].
113 False or misleading statements in tests, environmental monitoring and reports
A person who in a test, environmental monitoring or a report required under this Chapter and lodged with a regulatory authority makes a statement that the person knows is false or misleading in a material particular is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 113: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [57]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [11]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[38]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7] [25] [26].
Chapter 5 Environment protection offences
Part 5.1 Classification of offences
114 Classification of offences
(1) Tier 1 offences are the offences under Part 5.2.(2) Tier 2 offences are all other offences under this Act or the regulations.(3) Tier 3 offences are tier 2 offences that may be dealt with under Part 8.2 by way of penalty notice.
Part 5.2 Tier 1 offences
115 Disposal of waste—harm to environment
(1) Offence If a person wilfully or negligently disposes of waste in a manner that harms or is likely to harm the environment—(a) the person, andare each guilty of an offence.(b) if the person is not the owner of the waste, the owner,Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) Defence—lawful authority It is a defence in any proceedings against a person for an offence under this section if the person establishes that the waste was disposed of with lawful authority.(3) Definitions In this section—dispose of waste includes to dump, abandon, deposit, discard, reject, discharge or emit anything that constitutes waste, and also includes to cause or permit the disposal of waste.owner of waste includes, in relation to waste that has been disposed of, the person who was the owner of the waste immediately before it was disposed of.s 115: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [58]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [12].
116 Leaks, spillages and other escapes
(1) If a person wilfully or negligently causes any substance to leak, spill or otherwise escape (whether or not from a container) in a manner that harms or is likely to harm the environment—(a) the person, andare each guilty of an offence.(b) if the person is not the owner of the substance, the owner,(2) If—(a) the person in possession of the substance at the time of the leak, spill or other escape, or(b) the owner of any container from which the substance leaked, spilled or escaped, or(c) the owner of the land on which the substance or any such container was located at the time of the leak, spill or other escape, orwilfully or negligently, in a material respect, caused or contributed to the conditions that gave rise to the commission of the offence under subsection (1), that person, owner or occupier is guilty of an offence.(d) the occupier of the land on which the substance or any such container was located at the time of the leak, spill or other escape,(3) A person may be proceeded against and convicted of an offence under subsection (2) whether or not a person has been proceeded against or convicted of an offence under subsection (1) in respect of the leak, spill or other escape.(4) It is a defence in any proceedings against a person for an offence under this section if the person establishes that the leak, spill or other escape was caused with lawful authority.(5) In this section—container includes anything used for the purpose of storing, transporting or handling the substance concerned.owner of a substance includes, in relation to a substance that has leaked, spilled or otherwise escaped, the person who was the owner of the substance immediately before it leaked, spilled or otherwise escaped.Note—An offence against subsection (1) or (2) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 116: Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [13].
117 Emission of ozone depleting substances
(1) If a person wilfully or negligently causes any controlled substance (within the meaning of the Ozone Protection Act 1989) to be emitted into the atmosphere in contravention of the regulations under that Act and in a manner that harms or is likely to harm the environment—(a) the person, andare each guilty of an offence.(b) if the person is not the owner of the substance, the owner,Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) In this section—owner of a substance includes, in relation to a substance that has been emitted into the atmosphere, the person who was the owner of the substance immediately before it was emitted.s 117: Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [14].
118 General defence for tier 1 offences
It is a defence in any proceedings against a person for an offence under this Part if the person establishes—(a) that the commission of the offence was due to causes over which the person had no control, and(b) that the person took reasonable precautions and exercised due diligence to prevent the commission of the offence.
119 Maximum penalty for tier 1 offences
A person who is guilty of an offence under this Part is liable, on conviction—(a) in the case of a corporation—to a penalty not exceeding $10,000,000 for an offence that is committed wilfully or $4,000,000 for an offence that is committed negligently, or(b) in the case of an individual—to a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000 or 7 years’ imprisonment, or both, for an offence that is committed wilfully or $1,000,000 or 4 years’ imprisonment, or both, for an offence that is committed negligently.s 119: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [59]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[10] [27]–[29].
Part 5.3 Water pollution
120 Prohibition of pollution of waters
(1) A person who pollutes any waters is guilty of an offence.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) In this section—pollute waters includes cause or permit any waters to be polluted.s 120: Subst 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [6]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [15].
121 Defence of authority conferred by regulation
(1) The regulations may, for the purposes of this Part, regulate the carrying out of an activity that pollutes waters.(2) It is a defence in proceedings against a person for an offence against this Part if the person establishes that—(a) the pollution resulted from an activity regulated by such a regulation, and(b) the requirements of that regulation were not contravened.
122 Defence of authority conferred by protection of environment licence or forestry authorisation
(1) It is a defence in proceedings against a person for an offence under this Part if the person establishes that—(a) the pollution was regulated by an environment protection licence held by the person or another person, and(b) the conditions to which that licence was subject relating to the pollution of waters were not contravened.(2) It is a defence in proceedings against a person for an offence under this Part if the person establishes that the act constituting the offence was—(a) the carrying out of a forestry operation in a State forest or other Crown-timber land to which an integrated forestry operations approval under Part 5B of the Forestry Act 2012 applies, being a forestry operation that was carried out in accordance with the approval, or(b) the carrying out of a forestry operation that was authorised by a private native forestry plan and that was carried out in accordance with the plan and the applicable private native forestry code of practice.s 122: Am 2018 No 40, Sch 3.11 [1].
123 Maximum penalty for water pollution offences
A person who is guilty of an offence under this Part is liable, on conviction—(a) in the case of a corporation—to a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—to a penalty not exceeding $500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $120,000 for each day the offence continues.s 123: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [60]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
Part 5.4 Air pollution
Division 1 General
124 Operation of plant (other than domestic plant)
The occupier of any premises who operates any plant in or on those premises in such a manner as to cause air pollution from those premises is guilty of an offence if the air pollution so caused, or any part of the air pollution so caused, is caused by the occupier’s failure—(a) to maintain the plant in an efficient condition, or(b) to operate the plant in a proper and efficient manner.
125 Maintenance work on plant (other than domestic plant)
The occupier of any premises who carries out maintenance work on any plant in or on those premises in such a manner as to cause air pollution from those premises is guilty of an offence if the air pollution so caused, or any part of the air pollution so caused, is caused by the occupier’s failure to carry out that work in a proper and efficient manner.
126 Dealing with materials
(1) The occupier of any premises who deals with materials in or on those premises in such a manner as to cause air pollution from those premises is guilty of an offence if the air pollution so caused, or any part of the air pollution so caused, is caused by the occupier’s failure to deal with those materials in a proper and efficient manner.(2) In this section—deal with materials means process, handle, move, store or dispose of the materials.materials includes raw materials, materials in the process of manufacture, manufactured materials, by-products or waste materials.
127 Proof of causing pollution
To prove that air pollution was caused from premises, within the meaning of sections 124–126, it is sufficient to prove that air pollution was caused on the premises, unless the defendant satisfies the court that the air pollution did not cause air pollution outside the premises.
128 Standards of air impurities not to be exceeded
(1) The occupier of any premises must not carry on any activity, or operate any plant, in or on the premises in such a manner as to cause or permit the emission at any point specified in or determined in accordance with the regulations of air impurities in excess of—(a) the standard of concentration and the rate, orprescribed by the regulations in respect of any such activity or any such plant.(b) the standard of concentration or the rate,(1A) Subsection (1) applies only to emissions (point source emissions) released from a chimney, stack, pipe, vent or other similar kind of opening or release point.(2) The occupier of any premises must carry on any activity, or operate any plant, in or on the premises by such practicable means as may be necessary to prevent or minimise air pollution if—(a) in the case of point source emissions—neither a standard of concentration nor a rate has been prescribed for the emissions for the purposes of subsection (1), or(b) the emissions are not point source emissions.(3) A person who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence.s 128: Am 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [3] [4].
129 Emission of odours from premises licensed for scheduled activities
(1) The occupier of any premises at which scheduled activities are carried on under the authority conferred by a licence must not cause or permit the emission of any offensive odour from the premises to which the licence applies.(2) It is a defence in proceedings against a person for an offence against this section if the person establishes that—(a) the emission is identified in the relevant environment protection licence as a potentially offensive odour and the odour was emitted in accordance with the conditions of the licence directed at minimising the odour, or(b) the only persons affected by the odour were persons engaged in the management or operation of the premises.(3) A person who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence.
130 Provisions prevail
(1) Sections 124, 125 and 126 have effect despite anything contained in section 128 or 129.(2) Section 129 has effect despite anything contained in section 128.
131 Exclusion of residential premises
This Division does not apply to plant or materials, or the carrying on of an activity, in or on premises used only for residential purposes.
132 Maximum penalty for air pollution offences
A person who is guilty of an offence under this Division is liable, on conviction—(a) in the case of a corporation—to a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—to a penalty not exceeding $500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note 1—An offence against section 124, 125, 126 or 128 committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.Note 2—An offence against section 129 committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 132: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [61]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [16]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
Division 2 Air pollution from fires
133 Prohibition by EPA of burning in open air or incinerators
(1) This section applies if the EPA is of the opinion that weather conditions are such that the burning of fires in the open or in incinerators while those conditions persist will contribute or is likely to contribute to air pollution to such an extent that the making of an order under this section is warranted.(2) The EPA may, by order published in accordance with this section, prohibit, unconditionally or conditionally, the burning of fires in the open or in all or any specified classes of incinerators.(3) An order under this section has effect for such period (not exceeding 7 days) as is specified in the order, but may be revoked by a further order under this section.(4) An order must be published in the reasonably practicable way the EPA is satisfied is most likely to bring the order to the attention of the persons to whom the order applies.(5) An order under this section may be limited in any way specified in the order, including—(a) to specified areas or classes of areas,(b) to specified persons or classes of persons,(c) to specified times or circumstances,(d) to specified purposes or classes of purposes.(6) An order under this section has effect even though it prohibits burning that is permitted by any regulation relating to the burning of fires.s 133: Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [3]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[30].
134 Directions by authorised officers concerning fires
(1) This section applies if an authorised officer is of the opinion that a fire is burning in or on any premises and—(a) the fire is prohibited by an order of the EPA under this Division or by the regulations, or(b) air pollution from the fire is injurious to the health of any person or is causing or is likely to cause serious discomfort or inconvenience to any person.(2) The authorised officer may, by notice in writing given to—(a) the occupier of the premises or person apparently in charge of the premises, ordirect the occupier or other person to whom the notice is given to extinguish the fire immediately.(b) the person apparently in charge of the fire,(3) The authorised officer may, by that notice, also direct the occupier or other person not to light or maintain a similar fire in or on the premises during such period (not exceeding 48 hours) as is specified in the notice.(4) A notice under this section may be revoked by a further notice under this section.
135 Offence
A person who, without reasonable excuse, does not comply with an order or notice under this Division is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—30 penalty units.
Division 3 Domestic air pollution
pt 5.4, div 3 (ss 135A–135D): Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [62].
135A Definitions
In this Division—chimney means a chimney, flue, pipe or other similar means of conveying smoke emitted inside residential premises to the outside.excessive smoke means the emission of a visible plume of smoke from a chimney for a continuous period of not less than 10 minutes, including a period of not less than 30 seconds when the plume extends at least 10 metres from the point at which the smoke is emitted from the chimney.residential premises means premises used wholly or partly as a residence.pt 5.4, div 3 (ss 135A–135D): Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [62].
135B Smoke abatement notices
(1) If it appears to an authorised officer of an appropriate regulatory authority that is a local authority that excessive smoke is being, or has at any time within the past 7 days been, emitted from a chimney on or in residential premises, the officer may give the person whom the officer believes to be the occupier of the premises a smoke abatement notice directing the person to ensure that excessive smoke is not emitted from the chimney at any time after 21 days following the giving of the notice.(2) A smoke abatement notice is to be in writing.(3) A smoke abatement notice ceases to have effect 6 months after the day on which it is given or when it is revoked, whichever occurs first.(4) This section does not apply to a chimney that is in or on an incinerator or is used only in relation to smoke originating from outside a residence.pt 5.4, div 3 (ss 135A–135D): Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [62].
135C Contravention of smoke abatement notices
(1) A person to whom a smoke abatement notice has been given must not, without reasonable excuse, fail to comply with the notice while the notice remains in force.Maximum penalty—30 penalty units.(2) A smoke abatement notice does not prevent the emission of smoke that is not excessive smoke.(3) In any proceedings for an offence under this section, a document signed by the authorised officer of an appropriate regulatory authority who issued a smoke abatement notice certifying that the officer had, at a specified time and place—(a) observed a plume of smoke being emitted from a chimney on or in premises specified in the certificate for a continuous period of not less than 10 minutes, andis evidence of the matters so certified, unless the contrary is proved.(b) observed during that period a plume of smoke extending at least 10 metres from the point at which the smoke was emitted from the chimney for a period of not less than 30 seconds,pt 5.4, div 3 (ss 135A–135D): Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [62].
135D Revocation of smoke abatement notices
A smoke abatement notice may be revoked by the appropriate regulatory authority for which the person who gave the notice is an authorised officer.pt 5.4, div 3 (ss 135A–135D): Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [62].
Part 5.5 Noise pollution
136 Sale of articles emitting more than prescribed noise
(1) A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells any article of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section is guilty of an offence if, when in use or operation, the article emits noise that, when measured at any point specified in or determined in accordance with the regulations, is in excess of the prescribed level.(2) The articles that may be prescribed for the purposes of this section extend to plant, motor or other vehicles, vessels or other things of any description.
137 Sale of articles required to be fitted with noise control equipment
(1) A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells any article of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subsection is guilty of an offence if the article is not fitted in the prescribed manner with noise control equipment of a prescribed class.(2) A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells any article of a class prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subsection is guilty of an offence if the noise control equipment with which it is fitted has not been maintained in accordance with the regulations.(3) It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence against subsection (2) if the defendant proves that the defendant took all reasonable steps to ensure that the equipment was maintained as required by the regulations.(4) The articles that may be prescribed for the purposes of this section extend to plant, motor or other vehicles, vessels or other things of any description.
138 Defence—sale of articles
It is a defence in any proceedings against a person for an offence under section 136 or 137 if the person establishes—(a) that the offence was committed by the person in the course of the person’s employment by another person, or(b) that on, or in the event of, the sale of the article to which the offence relates, the person received or was to be paid remuneration, by way of commission, from a person other than the owner of the article.
139 Operation of plant
The occupier of any premises who operates any plant (other than control equipment) at those premises in such a manner as to cause the emission of noise from those premises is guilty of an offence if the noise so caused, or any part of it, is caused by the occupier’s failure—(a) to maintain the plant in an efficient condition, or(b) to operate the plant in a proper and efficient manner.
140 Dealing with materials
(1) The occupier of any premises who deals with materials in or on premises in such a manner as to cause the emission of noise from those premises is guilty of an offence if the noise so caused, or any part of it, is caused by the occupier’s failure to deal with those materials in a proper and efficient manner.(2) In this section—deal with materials means process, handle, move, store or dispose of the materials.materials includes raw materials, materials in the process of manufacture, manufactured materials, by-products, or waste materials.
141 Maximum penalty for noise offences
A person who is guilty of an offence under this Part is liable, on conviction—(a) in the case of a corporation—to a penalty not exceeding $2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—to a penalty not exceeding $500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, to a further penalty not exceeding $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against section 136, 137, 139 or 140 committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 141: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [63]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [17]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
Part 5.6 Land pollution and waste
pt 5.6, hdg: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [3]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [64].
Division 1 Preliminary
pt 5.6, div 1, hdg: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [65].
142 Definition
In this Part—land does not include waters.s 142: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [4].
Division 2 Land pollution
pt 5.6, div 2: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66].
142A Pollution of land
(1) A person who pollutes land is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) In this section—pollute land includes cause or permit any land to be polluted.s 142A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [18]; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[31].
142B Defence of authority conferred by regulation
(1) The regulations may, for the purposes of this Division, regulate the carrying out of an activity that pollutes land.(2) It is a defence in proceedings for an offence under this Division if the person establishes that—(a) the pollution resulted from an activity regulated by such a regulation, and(b) the requirements of that regulation were not contravened.s 142B: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66].
142C Defence of authority conferred by licence
It is a defence in proceedings for an offence under this Division if the person establishes that—(a) the pollution was regulated by an environment protection licence held by the person or another person, and(b) the conditions to which that licence was subject relating to the pollution of land were not contravened.s 142C: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66].
142D Defences relating to pesticides and fertilisers and other substances
(1) It is a defence in proceedings for an offence under this Division if the person establishes that the substance placed in or on, or otherwise introduced into or onto, land is any of the following—(a) a pesticide (within the meaning of the Pesticides Act 1999) placed in or on, or otherwise introduced into or onto the land, in the course of being used within the meaning of that Act,(b) a fertiliser, liming material or trace element product within the meaning of the Biosecurity Act 2015 that may lawfully be sold as such,(c) non-hazardous agricultural or crop waste, including stock feed made solely from such waste,(d) manure,(e) virgin excavated natural material,(f) biosolids or any other substances prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this section.(2) Words and expressions used in this section have the meanings prescribed by the regulations.s 142D: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66]. Am 2015 No 24, Sch 8.32.
142E Defences relating to unlicensed landfills
It is a defence in proceedings for an offence under this Division if the person establishes that a substance was placed in or on, or otherwise introduced into or onto, land that was an unlicensed landfill site notified to the EPA in accordance with, and operated in accordance with, any requirements of the regulations.s 142E: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [66].
Division 3 Waste offences
pt 5.6, div 3, hdg: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [67].
143 Unlawful transporting or depositing of waste
(1) Offence If a person transports waste to a place that cannot lawfully be used as a waste facility for that waste, or causes or permits waste to be so transported—(a) the person, and(b) if the person is not the owner of the waste—the owner of the waste, andare each guilty of an offence.(c) if the waste is transported in a vehicle and the person is not the owner of the vehicle—the owner of the vehicle,Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) Proof of lawfulness In any proceedings for an offence under this section the defendant bears the onus of proving that the place to which the waste was transported can lawfully be used as a waste facility for that waste.(3) Defence—owner of waste It is a defence in any proceedings against an owner of waste for an offence under this section if the owner did not transport the waste and establishes—(a) that the commission of the offence was due to causes over which the owner had no control, and(b) that the owner took reasonable precautions and exercised due diligence to prevent the commission of the offence.(3A) Defence—approved notice It is a defence in any proceedings for an offence under this section if the defendant establishes that—(a) an approved notice was, at the time of the alleged offence, given to the defendant by the owner or occupier of the place to which the waste was transported or was displayed at the place, and(b) the approved notice stated that the place could lawfully be used as a waste facility for the waste, and(c) the defendant had no reason to believe that the place could not lawfully be used as a waste facility for the waste.(3B) However, it is not a defence in such proceedings for the defendant to establish that the defendant relied on the advice (other than advice in the form of an approved notice) given by the owner or occupier concerned to the effect that the place could, at the time of the alleged offence, be lawfully used as such a waste facility.(3C) Defence—waste not deposited It is a defence in any proceedings for an offence under this section if the defendant establishes that the waste transported by the defendant was not deposited by the defendant or any other person at the place to which it was transported.(4) Definitions In this section—approved notice means a notice, in a form approved by the EPA—(a) stating that the place to which the notice relates can lawfully be used as a waste facility for the waste specified in the notice, and(b) that contains a certification by the owner or occupier of the place that the statement is correct.owner of waste includes, in relation to waste that has been transported, the person who was the owner of the waste immediately before it was transported.s 143: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [8]–[10]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [68] [69]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [19]; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [3] [4]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[39]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[32].
144 Use of place as waste facility without lawful authority
(1) A person who is the owner or occupier of any place and who uses the place, or causes or permits the place to be used, as a waste facility without lawful authority is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) In any proceedings for an offence under this section the defendant bears the onus of proving that there is lawful authority to use the place concerned as a waste facility.s 144: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [11]. Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [70]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [20]; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [2]; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [5] [6]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[33].
144AAA Unlawful disposal of asbestos waste
(1) A person disposing of asbestos waste off the site at which it is generated must do so at a place that can lawfully receive the waste.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) In this section, dispose of asbestos waste includes to dump, abandon, deposit, discard, reject, discharge or emit anything that constitutes asbestos waste, and also includes to cause or permit the disposal of asbestos waste.s 144AAA: Ins 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [7]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[34].
144AAB Re-use and recycling of asbestos waste prohibited
A person must not cause or permit asbestos waste in any form to be re-used or recycled.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 144AAB: Ins 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [7]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[35].
144AA False or misleading information about waste
(1) A person who supplies information about waste to another person in the course of dealing with the waste, being information that is false or misleading in a material respect, is guilty of an offence.It is a defence in any proceedings against a person for an offence under this subsection if the person establishes that the person took all reasonable steps to ensure that the information was not false or misleading in a material respect.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence under subsection (1) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.(2) A person who supplies information about waste to another person in the course of dealing with the waste, being information that the person knows is false or misleading in a material respect, is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—either or both of the following—(i) $1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues,(ii) imprisonment for 18 months.(2A) If the court is satisfied that a person charged with an offence under subsection (2) is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence that the person is guilty of an offence under subsection (1), the court may find the person guilty of the offence under subsection (1), and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(2B) Proceedings for an offence under subsection (2) may not be dealt with before the Local Court despite section 215.(3) In this section, information is taken to be supplied to a person in the course of dealing with waste if it is supplied—(a) in the course of an activity relating to the sale or disposal of waste, or(b) in the course of an activity relating to the storage, transport, handling, deposit, transfer, processing, recycling, recovery, re-use or use of the waste.(4) In this section, information about waste means information about any of the following—(a) the type, classification, characteristics, composition or quantity of the waste,(b) the actual or proposed storage, transport, handling, deposit, transfer, disposal, processing, recycling, recovery, re-use or use of the waste,(c) the hazards or potential harm to the environment or human health associated with the waste or an activity referred to in paragraph (b).(5) In this section, information includes a record containing information.(5A) In this section, supply information includes cause or permit information to be supplied.(6) Proceedings for an offence against this section may be instituted only by the EPA.s 144AA: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [70]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [21]; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [3] [4]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[40] [41]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[36] [37].
144AB Repeat waste offenders
(1) For the purposes of this section, a waste offence is an offence against any of the following provisions of this Act—(aaa) section 91B, in relation to a pollution incident relating to waste,(aa) section 115(1),(ab) section 116, if the leaks, spillages or other escapes involve waste,(a) section 120 (1) (where waters are polluted by waste),(b) section 142A (1),(c) section 143 (1),(d) section 144 (1),(e) section 144AAA (1),(f) section 144AAB,(g) section 144AA(1) or (2),(h) section 286A(2),(i) section 286B(1),(j) section 286C(1).(2) A person commits an offence against this section if the person is an individual who—(a) has been convicted of a waste offence, and(b) commits a waste offence on a separate subsequent occasion within 5 years after that conviction.Maximum penalty—The maximum monetary penalty provided by this Act for the commission of the waste offence by an individual or imprisonment for 2 years, or both.(3) A reference in this section to a conviction for a waste offence includes a conviction before or after the commencement of this section and a conviction for an offence against this section.(4) If the court is satisfied that a person charged with an offence against this section is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence that the person is guilty of the waste offence to which the charge relates, the court may find the person guilty of the waste offence, and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(5) Proceedings for an offence against this section may not be dealt with before the Local Court despite section 215.s 144AB: Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [5]. Am 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [8]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[42] [43]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[38].
144AC Use of approved GPS tracking device required by EPA for waste transportation vehicles
(1) The EPA may, by notice in writing, require a person who is engaged in the transportation of waste to ensure that—(a) approved GPS tracking devices are installed, used and maintained, in the manner specified in the notice, on any motor vehicles or trailers, or both, that are used by the person (or an employee, subcontractor or agent of the person) to transport waste, and(b) such devices are not tampered with.(2) A person who does not comply with a notice given to the person under subsection (1) is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$44,000, or(b) for an individual—$22,000.(3) In this section—approved GPS tracking device means a device of a kind approved by the EPA that uses the Global Positioning System to keep track of the location of a motor vehicle.s 144AC: Ins 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [5]. Am 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [6]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[39]; 2024 No 47, Sch 2.13.
Part 5.6AA Illegal dumping
ch 5, pt 5.6AA: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
144AD Definitions
In this part—means the following—(a) an authorised officer under this Act,(b) a police officer,(c) an authorised officer under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974,(d) an authorised officer under the Forestry Act 2012,(e) an authorised officer under the Crown Land Management Act 2016,(f) an authorised officer under the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Act 2022,(g) an authorised person under regulations made under the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Act 1980.depositing litter has the same meaning as in Part 5.6A.illegal dumping offence—see section 144AE(2).litter has the same meaning as in Part 5.6A.open private place has the same meaning as in Part 5.6A.sensitive place means the following—(a) land acquired or reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, including land acquired under Part 11 of that Act that is yet to be reserved,(b) a State forest or flora reserve within the meaning of the Forestry Act 2012,(c) land that is a park within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993,(d) a beach within the meaning of the Coastal Management Act 2016,(e) waters,(f) the grounds of a childcare centre, hospital or school to the extent the grounds are a public place or private open space,(g) another place prescribed by the regulations.s 144AD: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
144AE Offence of illegal dumping
(1) This section applies if a person, without lawful excuse—(a) deposits litter or waste in an amount of more than 50L or 50kg in or on—(i) a public place, or(ii) an open private place, or(b) causes or permits conduct referred to in paragraph (a).(2) The person commits an offence (an illegal dumping offence).Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) for an offence committed in or on a sensitive place—$100,000, or(ii) otherwise—$50,000, or(b) for an individual—(i) for an offence committed in or on a sensitive place—$50,000, or(ii) otherwise—$25,000.(3) If a court is satisfied a person charged with an illegal dumping offence in relation to depositing litter is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence the person is guilty of an offence under section 145—(a) the court may find the person guilty of the offence under section 145, and(b) the person is liable to punishment under that section.s 144AE: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
144AF Exceptions
(1) Section 144AE does not apply to a person who deposited the litter or waste in or on a public place if the person—(a) deposited the litter or waste in or on the place—(i) in a receptacle provided by the custodian of the place for the depositing of litter or waste, and(ii) in accordance with any conditions specified by the custodian, by a notice displayed on or near the receptacle, in relation to the depositing of litter or waste in the receptacle, or(b) placed a receptacle containing the litter or waste in the place for the purpose of the litter or waste being removed during a litter or waste removal service provided by the custodian of the place, or(c) deposited the litter or waste in the place—(i) in response to an invitation contained in a notice published by the custodian of the place, and(ii) in accordance with any conditions specified in the notice in relation to the depositing of litter or waste in the place, or(d) deposited the litter or waste in the place with the express consent of the custodian of the place.(2) Section 144AE does not apply to a person who deposited the litter or waste in or on an open private place if the person—(a) deposited the litter or waste in or on the place in any receptacle that is—(i) provided for the depositing of litter or waste, and(ii) appropriate for litter or waste of that size, shape, nature or volume, or(b) at the relevant time was the custodian of the place or was acting with the express or implied consent of the custodian of the place.(3) Section 144AE does not apply to a person who deposited the litter or waste in or on a place if the person—(a) deposited the litter or waste in the place under an authority conferred by or under this Act or another Act or a Commonwealth Act, or(b) deposited the litter or waste in accordance with regulations made for the purposes of this section or in circumstances prescribed by regulations made for the purposes of this section.s 144AF: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
144AG Clean-up of illegal dumping
(1) Chapter 4, Part 4.2 applies to the depositing of litter or waste referred to in section 144AE(1) or the depositing of litter under Part 5.6A as if the depositing of the litter or waste were a pollution incident.(2) For subsection (1), Chapter 4, Part 4.2 applies—(a) as if a reference to premises at or from which a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring, or is suspected to have occurred or is occurring, were a reference to premises on which litter or waste has been deposited as referred to in section 144AE(1), and(b) as if the maximum penalty in section 91B for a corporation were $50,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $6,000 for each day the offence continues, and(c) as if the maximum penalty in section 91B for an individual were $25,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $6,000 for each day the offence continues, and(d) with any other modifications prescribed by the regulations.s 144AG: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
144AH Direction to remove litter or waste
(1) This section applies if an authorised officer believes on reasonable grounds that litter or waste has been deposited in a public place by a person in contravention of this Act.(2) The authorised officer may give the following persons a verbal direction to remove the litter or waste from the public place—(a) the person who deposited the litter or waste,(b) the person who caused or permitted the depositing of the litter or waste.(3) The person must comply with the direction.Maximum penalty—(a) if the amount of litter or waste is no more than 50kg or 50L—(i) for a corporation—$10,000, or(ii) for an individual—$5,000, or(b) if the amount of litter or waste is more than 50kg or 50L—(i) for a corporation—$20,000, or(ii) for an individual—$10,000.s 144AH: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[40].
Part 5.6A Littering
pt 5.6A, hdg: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [5].
144A Definitions
In this Part—advertising material means any paper product (including a leaflet, brochure or magazine), or other material thing, that contains advertising or promotional matter.custodian of a place or vehicle means the person who owns the place or vehicle or who has the care, control or management of the place or vehicle.depositing litter in or on a place includes—(a) dropping or throwing litter in, on, into or onto the place, or(b) leaving litter in or on the place, or(c) putting litter in such a location that it falls, descends, blows, is washed, percolates or otherwise escapes or is likely to fall, descend, blow, be washed, percolate or otherwise escape into or onto the place, or(d) causing, permitting or allowing litter to fall, descend, blow, be washed, percolate or otherwise escape into or onto the place.litter includes—(a) any solid or liquid domestic or commercial refuse, debris or rubbish and, without limiting the generality of the above, includes any glass, metal, cigarette butts, paper, fabric, wood, food, abandoned vehicles, abandoned vehicle parts, construction or demolition material, garden remnants and clippings, soil, sand or rocks, anddeposited in or on a place, whether or not it has any value when or after being deposited in or on the place.(b) any other material, substance or thing deposited in or on a place if its size, shape, nature or volume makes the place where it is deposited disorderly or detrimentally affects the proper use of that place,open private place means—(a) a private place that is situated in or on land and that is not within a building on the land, or(b) a private place that is situated in or on waters.vehicle means—(a) any thing that is capable of transporting a person, including an aeroplane, vessel, bicycle, bus, car, horse, train or tram, orand includes a motor vehicle.(b) any trailer that is attached to any such thing,s 144A: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [6].
145 Littering generally
(1) Offence of littering A person who deposits litter in or on a public place or an open private place is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$10,000, or(b) for an individual—$5,000.(2) Application of this section This section applies whether the place is in or on land or is in or on waters, but (without limiting subsection (5) (b)) does not apply to a place or class of places prescribed by the regulations as being excluded from this section.(3) Exceptions: public places Subsection (1) does not apply to a person who deposited the litter in or on a public place, if the person—(a) deposited the litter in or on the place—(i) in a receptacle provided by the custodian of the place for the depositing of litter, and(ii) in accordance with any conditions specified by the custodian, by means of a notice displayed on or in the vicinity of the receptacle, in relation to the depositing of litter in the receptacle, or(b) placed a receptacle containing the litter in the place for the purpose of the litter being removed in the course of a litter removal service provided by the custodian of the place, or(c) deposited the litter in the place—(i) in response to an invitation contained in a notice published by the custodian of the place, and(ii) in accordance with any conditions specified in the notice in relation to the depositing of litter in that place, or(d) deposited the litter in the place with the express consent of the custodian of the place.(4) Exceptions: open private places Subsection (1) does not apply to a person who deposited the litter in or on an open private place, if the person—(a) deposited the litter in or on the place in any receptacle—(i) that is provided for the deposit of litter, and(ii) that is appropriate for litter of that size, shape, nature or volume, or(b) at the relevant time was the custodian of the place or was acting with the express or implied consent of the custodian of the place.(5) Exceptions: generally Subsection (1) does not apply to a person who deposited the litter in or on a place, if the person—(a) deposited the litter in the place under an authority conferred by or under this or any other Act or any Commonwealth Act, or(b) deposited the litter in accordance with any regulations made for the purposes of this section or in such circumstances as may be prescribed by any regulations made for the purposes of this section.s 145: Subst 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [7]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [71]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[41].
145A Littering dangerous materials
(1) A person who deposits litter that is or includes dangerous material in or on either of the following places commits an offence—(a) a public place,(b) an open private place.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$50,000, or(b) for an individual—$25,000.(2) If a court is satisfied a person charged with an offence under this section is not guilty of the offence but is satisfied on the evidence the person is guilty of an offence under section 145, the court may—(a) find the person guilty of the offence under section 145, and(b) impose a penalty on the person under that section.(3) In this section—dangerous material means the following—(a) a lit cigarette or a lit cigarette butt,(b) an e-cigarette,(c) a lithium battery or an item that contains a lithium battery,(d) a syringe,(e) glass,(f) oil, fuel, grease, paint or solvent,(g) a substance, material or other thing prescribed by the regulations.syringe—(a) means a hypodermic syringe, and(b) includes—(i) anything designed for use, or intended to be used, as part of a hypodermic syringe, and(ii) a needle designed for use, or intended to be used, in connection with a hypodermic syringe.s 145A: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [7]. Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[42].
146 Owners and drivers of motor vehicles and trailers involved in littering
(1) Offence If litter is deposited from a motor vehicle, or from a trailer attached to a motor vehicle, contrary to section 145 or 145A, the following are taken to be guilty of an offence under that section—(a) in the case of litter deposited from a motor vehicle—the driver of the motor vehicle,(b) in the case of litter deposited from a motor vehicle—the owner of the motor vehicle,(c) in the case of litter deposited from a trailer attached to a motor vehicle—the owner of the trailer.(2) Only one person liable Subsection (1) does not affect the liability of the actual offender but, if a penalty has been imposed or recovered from any person in relation to the offence (whether the actual offender, the driver or the owner), no further penalty may be imposed on or recovered from any other person. In this subsection, penalty includes a penalty under a penalty notice.(3) Exception for passenger vehicles Subsection (1) does not apply if—(a) the motor vehicle is a bus, taxi or other public transport vehicle and is being used at the time to convey a public passenger, and(b) the litter was deposited by that passenger.(4) Exception for stolen vehicles Subsection (1) (b) does not apply if the motor vehicle was at the time a stolen motor vehicle or a motor vehicle illegally taken or used.(4A) Exception for stolen trailers Subsection (1) (c) does not apply if the trailer was at the time a stolen trailer or a trailer illegally taken or used.(5) Exception for owner when not driver Subsection (1) (b) or (c) does not apply if the owner was not in the motor vehicle, including the motor vehicle to which the trailer was attached, at the relevant time and—(a) gives notice in accordance with subsection (7) of the name and address of the person who was in charge of the motor vehicle at the relevant time, or(b) satisfies the officer who gave the penalty notice for the offence or the court dealing with the offence (as the case requires) that the owner did not know, and could not with reasonable diligence have ascertained, that name and address.A notice under this subsection is, in proceedings against the person named in the notice for an offence under this Part, evidence that the person was driving the motor vehicle at the relevant time.(6) Exception for driver when not offender Subsection (1) (a) does not apply if the driver—(a) gives notice in accordance with subsection (7) of the name and address of the passenger in the motor vehicle who deposited the litter, or(b) satisfies the officer who gave the penalty notice for the offence or the court dealing with the offence (as the case requires) that the driver did not deposit the litter and did not know, and could not with reasonable diligence have ascertained, the name and address of the passenger who deposited the litter.A notice under this subsection is, in proceedings against the person named in the notice for an offence under this Part, evidence that the person deposited the litter from the motor vehicle.(7) Notice given by owner or driver A notice for the purposes of subsection (5) or (6) must be in the form of an approved nomination notice and—(a) if a penalty notice has been given for the offence—the notice must be given to an officer specified in the penalty notice for the purpose within 21 days after service of the penalty notice, or(b) if a court is dealing with the offence—the notice must be given to the prosecutor within 21 days after service of the summons or court attendance notice for the offence.(7A) Despite any other provision of this Act, an approved nomination notice may be provided by a person served with a penalty notice within 90 days of the notice being served on the person if the approved nomination notice is provided in the circumstances specified in section 23AA or 23AB of the Fines Act 1996.(7B) If the owner or driver of a vehicle supplies an approved nomination notice to an officer or a prosecutor for the purposes of this section, an officer or prosecutor may, by written notice served on the owner or driver, require the owner to supply a statutory declaration for use in court proceedings that verifies the nomination contained in the approved nomination notice.(8) False statements A person who makes a statement for the purposes of subsection (5) or (6) knowing that it is false is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—10 penalty units.(9) Definition In this section—approved nomination notice has the same meaning as in section 38 of the Fines Act 1996.s 146: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [8]; 2000 No 93, Sch 1.18 [1]–[5]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [72]; 2016 No 13, Sch 2.8 [1]–[4].
146A Depositing of advertising material
(1) Offence A person must not deposit any advertising material in or on any place, other than—(a) in a receptacle that is provided for the deposit of mail, or(b) in a receptacle that is provided for the deposit of newspapers, or(c) under the door of any premises.Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.(2) Application of this section This section applies whether the place is a public place or a private place, and whether the place is in or on land or is in or on waters, but does not apply to the deposit of any advertising material in or on a vehicle.(3) Exceptions This section does not apply to the deposit of—(a) any newspaper, or any material folded or inserted in a newspaper, or(b) anything that is of such a size, shape or volume that it is not possible or appropriate for it to be deposited in accordance with subsection (1) (a)–(c), or(c) anything in a place by a person who is the custodian of the place or is acting with the express consent of the custodian of the place, or(d) anything by a person who deposits it in accordance with any regulations made for the purposes of this section or in such circumstances as may be prescribed by any regulations made for the purposes of this section.ss 146A–146C: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [9].
146B Advertising material not to be placed in or on vehicles
(1) Offence A person must not deposit any advertising material in or on any vehicle.Maximum penalty—5 penalty units.(2) Application of this section This section applies whether the vehicle is situated in or on a public place or a private place.(3) Exceptions This section does not apply to the deposit of—(a) any material by a person who is the custodian of the vehicle or is acting with the express consent of the custodian of the vehicle, or(b) any material by a person who deposits it in accordance with any regulations made for the purposes of this section or in such circumstances as may be prescribed by any regulations made for the purposes of this section.(4) For the purposes of subsection (3) (a), a person is not the custodian of a vehicle parked at a parking station merely because the person is the custodian of the parking station. In this subsection, parking station means a place (such as a car park) provided for the parking of vehicles, and includes a place or place of a class prescribed by the regulations.ss 146A–146C: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [9].
146C Offence to cause or ask person to commit offence
A person must not cause, ask, require or induce, or attempt to cause, ask, require or induce, another person to do anything that contravenes or would contravene section 146A or 146B.Maximum penalty—• in the case of a corporation—30 penalty units, or• in the case of an individual—7 penalty units.ss 146A–146C: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [9].
146D Littering reports
(1) The EPA is required to furnish to the Minister a biennial report on littering.(2) The report is to contain estimates of the composition and quantity of litter, by reference to locations considered by the EPA to be places of significant littering activity.(3) The EPA must cause advertisements to be published setting out the proposed methodology to be used in compiling such reports and inviting comments from members of the public concerning the proposed methodology. The EPA must allow at least 30 days for such comments to be made, and must consider comments received within the time allowed.(4) The Minister is to cause a copy of each report to be laid before both Houses of Parliament within 30 sitting days after receiving the report.(5) If the Minister, after consideration of the report, is of the opinion that—(a) the managers or other persons responsible for any of the locations referred to in subsection (2), orare not acting in a manner that minimises littering, the Minister may make recommendations aimed at improving litter avoidance strategies.(b) the producers of or other persons responsible for any products whose components or packaging comprise litter at any such locations,s 146D: Ins 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [9]. Am 2001 No 112, Sch 2.29; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [2]; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [1].
146E Restrictions on release of balloons
(1) Offence of releasing balloons A person who releases 20 or more balloons at or about the same time is guilty of an offence if the balloons are inflated with a gas that causes them to rise in the air.Maximum penalty (for a corporation or an individual): 10 penalty units.(2) Offence of causing or permitting release of balloons A person who causes or permits the release (whether by one or more than one person) of 20 or more balloons at or about the same time is guilty of an offence if the balloons are inflated with a gas that causes them to rise in the air.Maximum penalty (for a corporation or an individual): 10 penalty units.(3) Aggravated offence A person is guilty of an aggravated offence under this subsection if the person commits an offence under subsection (1) or (2) and the number of balloons released is more than 100.Maximum penalty (instead of any penalty under subsection (1) or (2))—• in the case of a corporation—55 penalty units, or• in the case of an individual—33 penalty units.(4) Exceptions Subsections (1)–(3) do not apply if—(a) the balloons are released unintentionally and without negligence, or(b) the balloons are released inside a building or structure and do not make their way into the open air, or(c) the balloons are hot air balloons that are recovered after landing, or(d) the balloons are released for scientific (including meteorological) purposes.(5) Aggravation not proved If the court is satisfied that a person charged with an offence under subsection (3) is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence that the person is guilty of an offence under subsection (1) or (2), the court may find the person guilty of the offence under subsection (1) or (2), and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(6) Evidence In any proceedings under this section—(a) it is not necessary for the prosecutor to establish the exact number of balloons released, and(b) evidence that a balloon rose in the air after being released is, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, evidence that the balloon was inflated with a gas that caused it to rise in the air.s 146E: Ins 2000 No 82, Sch 1 [1].
146F Application of Part to State waters
This Part extends to State waters within the meaning of the Marine Pollution Act 2012, but not so as to make a person liable to be punished for both—(a) an offence under this Part, and(b) an offence under the Marine Pollution Act 2012 or the regulations under that Act.s 146F: Ins 2012 No 5, Sch 1.5 [2].
Part 5.7 Duty to notify pollution incidents
147 Meaning of material harm to the environment
(1) For the purposes of this Part—(a) harm to the environment is material if—(i) it involves actual or potential harm to the health or safety of human beings or to ecosystems that is not trivial, or(ii) it results in actual or potential loss or property damage of an amount, or amounts in aggregate, exceeding $10,000 (or such other amount as is prescribed by the regulations), and(b) loss includes the reasonable costs and expenses that would be incurred in taking all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent, mitigate or make good harm to the environment.(2) For the purposes of this Part, it does not matter that harm to the environment is caused only in the premises where the pollution incident occurs.
148 Pollution incidents causing or threatening material harm to be notified
(1) Kinds of incidents to be notified This Part applies where a pollution incident occurs in the course of an activity so that material harm to the environment is caused or threatened.(2) Duty of person carrying on activity to notify A person carrying on the activity must, immediately after the person becomes aware of the incident, notify each relevant authority of the incident and all relevant information about it.(3) Duty of employee engaged in carrying on activity to notify A person engaged as an employee in carrying on an activity must, immediately after the person becomes aware of the incident, notify the employer of the incident and all relevant information about it. If the employer cannot be contacted, the person is required to notify each relevant authority.(3A) Duty of employer to notify Without limiting subsection (2), an employer who is notified of an incident under subsection (3) or who otherwise becomes aware of a pollution incident which is related to an activity of the employer, must, immediately after being notified or otherwise becoming aware of the incident, notify each relevant authority of the incident and all relevant information about it.(4) Duty of occupier of premises to notify The occupier of the premises on which the incident occurs must, immediately after the occupier becomes aware of the incident, notify each relevant authority of the incident and all relevant information about it.(5) Duty on employer and occupier to ensure notification An employer or an occupier of premises must take all reasonable steps to ensure that, if a pollution incident occurs in carrying on the activity of the employer or occurs on the premises, as the case may be, the persons engaged by the employer or occupier will, immediately, notify the employer or occupier of the incident and all relevant information about it.(6) Extension of duty to agents and principals This section extends to a person engaged in carrying on an activity as an agent for another. In that case, a reference in this section to an employee extends to such an agent and a reference to an employer extends to the principal.(7) (Repealed)(8) Meaning of “relevant authority” In this section—means the following—(a) the appropriate regulatory authority,(b) if the EPA is not the appropriate regulatory authority—the EPA,(c) if the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority—the local authority for the area in which the pollution incident occurs,(d) the Ministry of Health,(e) SafeWork NSW as referred to in clause 1 of Schedule 2 to the Work Health and Safety Act 2011,(f) Fire and Rescue NSW.s 148: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [73] [74]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [2]–[4]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [6]; 2015 No 19, Sch 15.14; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[44].
149 Manner and form of notification
(1) If the regulations prescribe the manner or form of notifying pollution incidents under section 148, the notification is to conform to the requirements of the regulations.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations—(a) may require that verbal notification be followed by written notification, and(b) may provide that notification to a designated person or authority is taken to be notification to the relevant person or authority under section 148.s 149: Am 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [5].
150 Relevant information to be given
(1) The relevant information about a pollution incident required under section 148 consists of the following—(a) the time, date, nature, duration and location of the incident,(b) the location of the place where pollution is occurring or is likely to occur,(c) the nature, the estimated quantity or volume and the concentration of any pollutants involved, if known,(d) the circumstances in which the incident occurred (including the cause of the incident, if known),(e) the action taken or proposed to be taken to deal with the incident and any resulting pollution or threatened pollution, if known,(f) other information prescribed by the regulations.(2) The information required by this section is the information known to the person notifying the incident when the notification is required to be given.(3) If the information required to be included in a notice of a pollution incident by subsection (1) (c), (d) or (e) is not known to that person when the initial notification is made but becomes known afterwards, that information must be notified in accordance with section 148 immediately after it becomes known.s 150: Am 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [5]–[8].
151 Incidents not required to be reported
(1) A person is not required to notify a pollution incident under section 148 if the person is aware that the incident has already come to the notice of each person or authority required to be notified.(2) A person is not required to notify a pollution incident under section 148 if the incident is an ordinary result of action required to be taken to comply with an environment protection licence, an environment protection notice or other requirement of or made under this Act.s 151: Am 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [5] [9].
151A EPA may require other notification of pollution incidents
(1) This section applies to the occupier of premises where a pollution incident has occurred in the course of an activity so that material harm to the environment is caused or threatened.(2) The EPA may direct a person to whom this section applies to notify such other persons of the incident as the EPA requires.(3) The direction is not required to be given in writing.(4) The direction may specify the manner or form of notifying the pollution incident and the information that must be provided.(5) The direction may require that an initial verbal notification be followed by written notification.(6) A person must not fail to comply with a direction given under this section.(7) (Repealed)(8) If a direction under this section is given to a person who is carrying out an activity, is engaged as an employee in carrying out an activity, or is the employer of such a person, the obligations under this section are in addition to, and not in derogation of, the obligations under section 148 (except as provided by section 151 (1)).s 151A: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [10]. Am 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [7].
152 Offence
A person who contravenes this Part is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $480,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.s 152: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [75]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [11]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [22]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[43].
153 Incriminating information
(1) A person is required to notify a pollution incident under this Part even though to do so might incriminate the person or make the person liable to a penalty.(2) Any notification given by a person under this Part is not admissible in evidence against the person for an offence or for the imposition of a penalty.(3) Subsection (2) does not apply to evidence obtained following or as a result of the notification.
Part 5.7A Duty to prepare and implement pollution incident response management plans
pt 5.7A: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12].
153A Duty of licence holder to prepare pollution incident response management plan
The holder of an environment protection licence must prepare a pollution incident response management plan that complies with this Part in relation to the activity to which the licence relates.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 153A: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [23]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
153B EPA may direct other persons to prepare pollution incident response management plan
(1) The EPA may, in accordance with the regulations, require the occupier of premises at which industry is carried out to prepare a pollution incident response management plan that complies with this Part in relation to activities at the premises.(2) A person must not fail to comply with such a requirement.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (2) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.(3) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to—(a) the class or classes of premises, or industries carried out at premises, that may be the subject of a requirement to prepare a pollution incident response management plan, and(b) the circumstances in which some or all premises within those classes may be the subject of a requirement to prepare a pollution incident response management plan.s 153B: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [24]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
153C Information to be included in plan
A pollution incident response management plan must be in the form required by the regulations and must include the following—(a) the procedures to be followed by the holder of the relevant environment protection licence, or the occupier of the relevant premises, in notifying a pollution incident to—(i) the owners or occupiers of premises in the vicinity of the premises to which the environment protection licence or the direction under section 153B relates, and(ii) the local authority for the area in which the premises to which the environment protection licence or the direction under section 153B relates are located and any area affected, or potentially affected, by the pollution, and(iii) any persons or authorities required to be notified by Part 5.7,(b) a detailed description of the action to be taken, immediately after a pollution incident, by the holder of the relevant environment protection licence, or the occupier of the relevant premises, to reduce or control any pollution,(c) the procedures to be followed for co-ordinating, with the authorities or persons that have been notified, any action taken in combating the pollution caused by the incident and, in particular, the persons through whom all communications are to be made,(d) any other matter required by the regulations.s 153C: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12].
153D Keeping of plan
A person who is required to prepare a pollution incident response management plan under this Part must ensure that it is kept at the premises to which the relevant environment protection licence relates, or where the relevant activity takes place, and is made available in accordance with the regulations.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 153D: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [25]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
153E Testing of plan
A person who is required to prepare a pollution incident response management plan under this Part must ensure that it is tested in accordance with the regulations.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 153E: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [26]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
153F Implementation of plan
If a pollution incident occurs in the course of an activity so that material harm to the environment (within the meaning of section 147) is caused or threatened, the person carrying on the activity must immediately implement any pollution incident response management plan in relation to the activity required by this Part.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $480,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 153F: Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [12]. Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [27]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[44].
Part 5.8 Motor vehicles
Division 1 Preliminary
154 Definitions
(1) In this Part—means an authorised officer appointed by the EPA.excessive air impurities—see subsection (2).mass—see subsection (3).petrol includes a mixture of petrol and any other substance, other than a prescribed mixture or a mixture of a prescribed class or description.prescribed anti-pollution device means a device specified or described in the regulations and described there as being a device designed or intended to minimise air pollution caused by motor vehicles.unleaded petrol means petrol—(a) that contains—(i) no lead or not more than the prescribed mass of lead per litre, and(ii) no phosphorus or not more than the prescribed mass of phosphorus per litre, and(b) that has a research octane number within the prescribed range.(2) For the purposes of this Part, a motor vehicle emits excessive air impurities if—(a) when in operation, it emits as determined in accordance with the regulations, air impurities in excess of the standard of concentration and the rate (or the standard of concentration or the rate) prescribed in respect of the class of motor vehicles to which the motor vehicle belongs, or(b) when tested in the prescribed manner, it emits air impurities in excess of the amount per test prescribed in respect of the class of motor vehicles to which the motor vehicle belongs.(3) For the purposes of this Part, the mass of an element contained in a specific volume of a substance may be determined by reference to the mass of the element present as a constituent of a compound contained in that volume.s 154: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [7].
Division 2 Sale and maintenance of motor vehicles
155 Sale of motor vehicles
A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells a motor vehicle is guilty of an offence if it emits excessive air impurities.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 155: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [76]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [28]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
156 Sale of motor vehicles without anti-pollution devices
A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells a motor vehicle is guilty of an offence if—(a) the regulations require motor vehicles of the class to which it belongs to be fitted with prescribed anti-pollution devices, and(b) the vehicle is not fitted in the prescribed manner with such a device.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 156: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [77]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [29]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
157 Adjustment etc of anti-pollution devices and motor vehicles
(1) A person who—(a) removes, disconnects or impairs an anti-pollution device fitted to a motor vehicle, oris guilty of an offence.(b) causes or permits any such device to be removed, disconnected or impaired,(2) A person who—(a) adjusts or modifies an anti-pollution device fitted to a motor vehicle, or(b) adjusts or modifies any part of a motor vehicle, oris guilty of an offence if the adjustment or modification results in the emission of excessive air impurities by the motor vehicle.(c) causes or permits any such device or part to be adjusted or modified,(3) In this section—anti-pollution device means a prescribed anti-pollution device, or any other device that is designed to minimise air pollution.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.s 157: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [78]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
158 Service or repair of motor vehicles
A person who—(a) services or repairs a motor vehicle, orin a manner prohibited by the regulations is guilty of an offence.(b) causes or permits a motor vehicle to be serviced or repaired,Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.s 158: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [79]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
159 Sale of motor vehicles not serviced, maintained or adjusted as prescribed
A person who, whether on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person, sells a motor vehicle is guilty of an offence if—(a) the regulations require motor vehicles of the class to which it belongs to be serviced, maintained or adjusted in a specified manner, and(b) the vehicle has not been serviced, maintained or adjusted in that manner.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.s 159: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [80]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
160 Defences
(1) Sale of motor vehicle It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 155, 156 or 159 if the defendant proves—(a) that the offence was committed by the defendant in the course of employment by another person, or(b) that upon, or in the event of, the sale of the motor vehicle, the defendant received or was to receive remuneration, by way of commission, from a person other than the owner of the motor vehicle.(2) Sale of vehicle emitting excessive air impurities It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 155 if the defendant proves—(a) that the defendant took all reasonable and practicable steps to prevent the commission of the offence, and(b) that no visible air impurities were emitted by the motor vehicle.(3) Removal, adjustment, modification etc resulting in excessive air impurities It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 157 if the defendant proves that the removal, disconnection, impairment, adjustment or modification was done—(a) in order to service, repair or replace the anti-pollution device or the part of the motor vehicle concerned, or to improve its efficiency with respect to minimising air pollution, or(b) as a temporary measure, in order to facilitate the service or repair of a motor vehicle, or(c) in order to facilitate the use of a motor vehicle for motor racing or off-road motor sport (being a motor vehicle that immediately before that removal or other action was not a vehicle of a kind capable of being registered within the meaning of the Road Transport Act 2013) and that the vehicle is to be used in that condition only in the competition itself.(4) Adjustment or modification resulting in excessive air impurities It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 157 (2) if the defendant proves that, at the time the offence was committed—(a) the defendant did not know and could not reasonably be expected to have known that the motor vehicle emitted excessive air impurities, and(b) no visible air impurities were emitted by the motor vehicle.(5) Sale of vehicle required to be serviced as prescribed It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 159 if the defendant proves that the defendant took all reasonable steps to ensure that the motor vehicle was serviced, maintained or adjusted as required by the regulations.(6) Sale of vehicle for use in competitive sport It is a defence to a prosecution for an offence under section 155 or 156, if the defendant proves that the motor vehicle—(a) was constructed or has been modified solely for use in motor racing or off-road motor sport, and(b) was not a vehicle of a kind capable of being registered within the meaning of the Road Transport Act 2013.s 160: Am 1999 No 19, Sch 2.32 [1] [2]; 2013 No 19, Sch 4.64 [1].
161 Notices
(1) Notice to repair An authorised officer may, by notice in writing given to the owner of a motor vehicle which the officer reasonably suspects emits excessive air impurities, direct the owner to cause it to be serviced or repaired, within a specified period of time, so that it no longer emits excessive air impurities.(2) Notice regarding anti-pollution devices An authorised officer may, by notice in writing given to the owner of a motor vehicle, direct the owner—(a) if the vehicle is not fitted with every prescribed anti-pollution device required by the regulations to be fitted to it—to cause it to be fitted with specified prescribed anti-pollution devices, or(b) if any device fitted to the vehicle (being a prescribed anti-pollution device or any other device designed to minimise air pollution) has been removed, disconnected or impaired—to cause the device to be refitted, reconnected or repaired, orwithin a specified period of time.(c) if any such device or any part of the vehicle has been so adjusted or modified that, as a result, the vehicle emits excessive air impurities—to cause the device or part to be readjusted or restored,(3) Revoking or varying notice A notice given under this section in respect of a motor vehicle may be revoked or varied by an authorised officer by further notice in writing given to the owner of the vehicle.(4) Offence A person who uses a motor vehicle in respect of which a notice has been given under this section, or causes or permits it to be used, is guilty of an offence if at that time—(a) the person knows that the notice has been given, and(b) the notice has not been revoked, and(c) the period of time specified in the notice has expired, and(d) the notice has not been complied with.Maximum penalty—60 penalty units.(5) (Repealed)(6) Driving permitted for limited purposes A motor vehicle may be driven to a place for the purpose of—(a) having the work required by a notice under this section carried out, or(b) (Repealed)(c) having the vehicle inspected by an authorised officer or a person authorised by such an officer, or(c1) having the vehicle tested or inspected by a person approved by the EPA for the purposes of section 207 (2) (c), orwithout contravening subsection (4).(d) returning from having any such work done or vehicle tested or inspected,(7) (Repealed)s 161: Am 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [2] [3]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [8].
162 Minister’s power to prohibit use of motor vehicles in certain circumstances
(1) Ministerial orders The Minister may, by written order, prohibit the use of all or any class of motor vehicles, in any area specified in the order and at all times, or during particular times, as may be so specified.(2) Purpose of order The Minister may make such an order if satisfied that it is warranted in order to prevent or minimise harm to the environment or injury to public health.(3) Period of operation of order Any such order has effect—(a) on its publication in such manner as may be specified in the regulations, and(b) for such period as may be specified in the order or, if no period is so specified, until it is revoked.(4) Publication of order The regulations may provide for the publication of any such order by means of a newspaper or television, by the display of notices or by any other method specified in the regulations.(5) Offence A person who contravenes any such order is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000.s 162: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [81]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7].
Division 3
163, 164 (Repealed)
pt 5.8, div 3 (ss 163, 164): Rep 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [82].
Division 4 Registration of motor vehicles
165 Suspension of registration
(1) The EPA may, by notice in writing to the owner of the motor vehicle, suspend the registration of a motor vehicle under the Road Transport Act 2013—(a) if the motor vehicle has not been presented for inspection in accordance with the requirements of a notice under this Part or of any other provision of or made under this Act, or(b) if the motor vehicle is in such a condition that its sale or use in that condition would constitute an offence under this Act or the regulations.(2) The EPA may remove any such suspension if satisfied, after inspecting or testing the motor vehicle, that the sale or use of the motor vehicle would no longer constitute an offence under this Act or the regulations.(3) The EPA must give written notice of any suspension, or removal of suspension, to Transport for NSW.(4) The suspension of registration of a motor vehicle takes effect when notice of the suspension is given to the owner of the motor vehicle or, if a later time is specified in the notice, at that later time.(5) The suspension of registration of a motor vehicle does not have effect while the vehicle is being taken to a place—(a) where repairs or other work required to comply with the requirements of a notice under this Part or of any other provision of or made under this Act are to be carried out, oror is being taken directly from any such place to the place where the vehicle is usually kept.(b) for the purpose of its being inspected or tested by (or with the authority of) an authorised officer,(6) While the registration of a motor vehicle is suspended under this section, the motor vehicle is taken, for the purposes of this Act, the Road Transport Act 2013 and any other Act, not to be registered under that Act.s 165: Am 1999 No 19, Sch 2.32 [3] [4]; 2011 No 41, Sch 5.34; 2013 No 19, Sch 4.64 [2]; 2020 No 30, Sch 4.77.
166 Prohibition on registration
(1) The EPA, by notice in writing to Transport for NSW—(a) may prohibit the registration under the Road Transport Act 2013 of a particular motor vehicle if it is satisfied that the motor vehicle is in such a condition that the sale or use of the motor vehicle in that condition would constitute an offence under this Act or the regulations, and(b) may remove any such prohibition if, after inspecting or testing the motor vehicle concerned, it is satisfied that the motor vehicle is no longer in such a condition.(2) The EPA must give written notice of any prohibition, or removal of prohibition, to the owner of the motor vehicle.s 166: Am 1999 No 19, Sch 2.32 [5]; 2011 No 41, Sch 5.34; 2013 No 19, Sch 4.64 [3]; 2020 No 30, Sch 4.77.
Part 5.9 General offences
167 Control equipment
(1) The occupier of any premises must maintain any control equipment installed at the premises in an efficient condition.(2) The occupier of any premises must operate any control equipment installed at the premises in a proper and efficient manner.(3) This section does not apply to any control equipment prescribed by the regulations as being excluded from this section.(4) An occupier of premises who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) in the case of a corporation—$2,000,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) in the case of an individual—$500,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.Note—An offence against subsection (4) committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.Note—control equipment is defined in the Dictionary.s 167: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [83]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [30]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
167A False or misleading information
(1) A person who supplies information to the EPA that is false or misleading in a material respect is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$1,000,000, or(b) for an individual—$500,000.Note—An offence under this subsection committed by a corporation is an executive liability offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.(2) It is a defence in proceedings against a person for an offence under subsection (1) if the person establishes that the person took all reasonable steps to ensure the information was not false or misleading in a material respect.(3) A person who supplies information to the EPA that the person knows is false or misleading in a material respect is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) for an individual—$1,000,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both.(4) If the court is satisfied that a person charged with an offence under subsection (3) is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence that the person is guilty of an offence under subsection (1), the court may find the person guilty of the offence under subsection (1), and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(5) Proceedings for an offence against this section may be instituted only by the EPA.(6) Despite section 215, proceedings for an offence under subsection (3) may not be dealt with before the Local Court.(7) In this section—information includes a record containing information.supply information includes cause or permit information to be supplied.s 167A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[45]. Am 2023 No 7, Sch 1.19[2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5] [7] [10].
167B Receiving monetary benefits
(1) Any of the following persons who receives, acquires or accrues a monetary benefit as a result of the commission by a corporation of a proved offence under this Act or the regulations (the underlying offence) is guilty of an offence—(a) a person who is, or was, at the time of the commission of the underlying offence, a director of the corporation,(b) a related entity,(c) a person who is, or was, at the time of the commission of the underlying offence, a director of a related body corporate.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—the maximum penalty that applies to a corporation for the underlying offence, or(b) for an individual—the maximum penalty that applies to an individual for the underlying offence.(2) Proceedings for an offence under this section may be commenced—(a) after the date on which the underlying offence is alleged to have been committed, but(b) despite section 216, no later than the later of the following—(i) the date that is 12 months after the date on which a court finds the underlying offence proved,(ii) the date by which the proceedings may be commenced under section 216(2).(3) Despite section 215, proceedings for an offence under this section may not be dealt with before the Local Court.(4) Without limiting subsection (1) or (2)(b)(i), a court finds an offence proved if—(a) the court convicts the offender of the offence, or(b) the court makes an order under the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, section 10 against the offender in relation to the offence.(5) A reference in subsection (1) to a director of a corporation or related body corporate extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation or body corporate.s 167B: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[45]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[45].
168 Ancillary offences
(1) A person who—(a) aids, abets, counsels or procures another person to commit, or(b) attempts to commit, oran offence under another provision of this Act or the regulations is guilty of an offence against that other provision and is liable, on conviction, to the same penalty applicable to an offence against that other provision.(c) conspires to commit,(2) A person does not commit an offence because of this section for any act or omission that is an offence under section 169B.s 168: Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [31].
169 Liability of directors etc for offences by corporation—offences attracting special executive liability
(1) If a corporation contravenes, whether by act or omission, a provision of this Act attracting special executive liability, each person who is a director of the corporation or who is concerned in the management of the corporation is taken to have contravened the same provision, unless the person satisfies the court that—(a) (Repealed)(b) the person was not in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to its contravention of the provision, or(c) the person, if in such a position, used all due diligence to prevent the contravention by the corporation.(1A) For the purposes of this section, each of the following provisions attract special executive liability—(a) section 49 (2),(b) section 64 (1),(c) section 66 (2) or (4),(d) section 102,(e) section 113,(f) section 115 (1),(g) section 116 (1) or (2),(h) section 117 (1),(i) section 120 (1),(j) section 124,(k) section 125,(l) section 126,(m) section 128,(n) section 142A (1),(o) section 143 (1),(p) section 144 (1),(p1) section 144AAA (1),(p2) section 144AAB,(q) section 152,(r) section 296C(1),(s) section 296E(1).(2) A person may be proceeded against and convicted under a provision pursuant to this section whether or not the corporation has been proceeded against or been convicted under that provision.(3) Nothing in this section affects any liability imposed on a corporation for an offence committed by the corporation against this Act or the regulations.(4), (5) (Repealed)s 169: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [84]–[86]; 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [32]–[34]; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [9]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[3].
169A Liability of directors etc for offences by corporation—offences attracting executive liability generally
(1) For the purposes of this section, an executive liability offence is an offence against any of the following provisions of this Act that is committed by a corporation—(a) section 47 (1),(b) section 48 (2),(c) section 86 (3),(d) section 91B,(e) section 97,(f) section 112,(g) section 129,(h) section 136,(i) section 137,(j) section 139,(k) section 140,(l) section 144AA (1),(m) section 153A,(n) section 153B (2),(o) section 153D,(p) section 153E,(q) section 153F,(r) section 155,(s) section 156,(t) section 167 (4),(u) section 167A(1),(v) section 296F(7),(w) section 296L(1).(2) A person commits an offence against this section if—(a) a corporation commits an executive liability offence, and(b) the person is—(i) a director of the corporation, or(ii) an individual who is involved in the management of the corporation and who is in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the commission of the executive liability offence, and(c) the person—(i) knows or ought reasonably to know that the executive liability offence (or an offence of the same type) would be or is being committed, and(ii) fails to take all reasonable steps to prevent or stop the commission of that offence.Maximum penalty—The maximum penalty for the executive liability offence if committed by an individual.(3) The prosecution bears the legal burden of proving the elements of the offence against this section.(4) The offence against this section can only be prosecuted by a person who can bring a prosecution for the executive liability offence.(5) This section does not affect the liability of the corporation for the executive liability offence, and applies whether or not the corporation is prosecuted for, or convicted of, the executive liability offence.(6) This section does not affect the application of any other law relating to the criminal liability of any persons (whether or not directors or other managers of the corporation) who are accessories to the commission of the executive liability offence or are otherwise concerned in, or party to, the commission of the executive liability offence.(7) In this section—director has the same meaning it has in the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth.reasonable steps, in relation to the commission of an executive liability offence, includes, but is not limited to, such action (if any) of the following kinds as is reasonable in all the circumstances—(a) action towards—(i) assessing the corporation’s compliance with the provision creating the executive liability offence, and(ii) ensuring that the corporation arranged regular professional assessments of its compliance with the provision,(b) action towards ensuring that the corporation’s employees, agents and contractors are provided with information, training, instruction and supervision appropriate to them to enable them to comply with the provision creating the executive liability offence so far as the provision is relevant to them,(c) action towards ensuring that—(i) the plant, equipment and other resources, andrelevant to compliance with the provision creating the executive liability offence are appropriate in all the circumstances,(ii) the structures, work systems and other processes,(d) action towards creating and maintaining a corporate culture that does not direct, encourage, tolerate or lead to non-compliance with the provision creating the executive liability offence.s 169A: Ins 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [35]. Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[46] [47]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[4].
169B Liability of directors etc for offences by corporation—accessory to the commission of the offences
(1) For the purposes of this section, a corporate offence is an offence against this Act or the regulations that is capable of being committed by a corporation, whether or not it is an offence referred to in section 169 or 169A.(2) A person commits an offence against this section if—(a) a corporation commits a corporate offence, and(b) the person is—(i) a director of the corporation, or(ii) an individual who is involved in the management of the corporation and who is in a position to influence the conduct of the corporation in relation to the commission of the corporate offence, and(c) the person—(i) aids, abets, counsels or procures the commission of the corporate offence, or(ii) induces, whether by threats or promises or otherwise, the commission of the corporate offence, or(iii) conspires with others to effect the commission of the corporate offence, or(iv) is in any other way, whether by act or omission, knowingly concerned in, or party to, the commission of the corporate offence.Maximum penalty—The maximum penalty for the corporate offence if committed by an individual.(3) The prosecution bears the legal burden of proving the elements of the offence against this section.(4) The offence against this section can only be prosecuted by a person who can bring a prosecution for the corporate offence.(5) This section does not affect the liability of the corporation for the corporate offence, and applies whether or not the corporation is prosecuted for, or convicted of, the corporate offence.(6) This section does not affect the application of any other law relating to the criminal liability of any persons (whether or not directors or other managers of the corporation) who are concerned in, or party to, the commission of the corporate offence.s 169B: Ins 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [35].
169C Evidence as to state of mind of corporation
(1) Without limiting any other law or practice regarding the admissibility of evidence, evidence that an officer, employee or agent of a corporation (while acting in his or her capacity as such) had, at any particular time, a particular state of mind, is evidence that the corporation had that state of mind.(2) In this section, the state of mind of a person includes—(a) the knowledge, intention, opinion, belief or purpose of the person, and(b) the person’s reasons for the intention, opinion, belief or purpose.s 169C: Ins 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [35].
170 Extra-territoriality
A person is guilty of a particular offence against this Act or the regulations in respect of any act or omission done or omitted by the person outside the State—(a) if the act or omission causes any substance to come into the State, and(b) if the substance causes harm or is likely to cause harm to the environment of the State, and(c) if (apart from this section) the act or omission would have constituted that offence if it had been done or omitted within the State.
Chapter 6 Environmental audits
Part 6.1 Preliminary
171 Relationship of this Chapter to other provisions
(1) This Chapter does not affect other provisions of this Act, which provide for—(a) conditions on environment protection licences requiring—(i) monitoring or testing, or(ii) reporting on monitoring or testing, and(b) functions exercisable by the appropriate regulatory authority or authorised officers for the purpose of auditing compliance with this Act, the regulations and conditions of licences.(2) This Chapter does not affect provisions of this or any other Act relating to pollution reduction programs or industry waste reduction programs.
172 Nature of environmental audit
An environmental audit is a documented evaluation of an activity (including an evaluation of management practices, systems and plant) for either or both of the following purposes—(a) to provide information to the persons managing the activity on compliance with legal requirements, codes of practice and relevant policies relating to the protection of the environment,(b) to enable those persons to determine whether the way the activity is carried on can be improved in order to protect the environment and to minimise waste.s 172: Am 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [9].
173 Accreditation and regulation of environmental auditors
The regulations may make provision for or with respect to either or both of the following—(a) the accreditation of environmental auditors for the purposes of this Chapter,(b) the carrying out of environmental audits by environmental auditors, including—(i) the protection of documents prepared for environmental audits, and(ii) the admissibility in a court or tribunal of documents prepared for environmental audits.s 173: Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[46].
Part 6.2 Mandatory environmental audits
174 Conditions for mandatory environmental audits
(1) The conditions of a licence may require a mandatory environmental audit to be undertaken to the satisfaction of the appropriate regulatory authority.(2) Such a condition must specify the purpose of the audit.(3) Such a condition may require—(a) appointment of an environmental auditor to undertake the audit, and(b) approval by the appropriate regulatory authority of the environmental auditor before being appointed, and(c) preparation of written documentation during the course of the audit, and(d) preparation of an audit report, and(e) production to the appropriate regulatory authority of the audit report.(4) Such a condition may—(a) specify the format and level of detail required for the audit, or(b) require the environmental auditor to submit the proposed format and level of detail to the appropriate regulatory authority for approval.
175 Circumstances in which mandatory environmental audit can be imposed
Conditions requiring the undertaking of a mandatory environmental audit may only be imposed if—(a) the appropriate regulatory authority reasonably suspects—(i) that the holder of the licence has on one or more occasions contravened this Act, the regulations or the conditions of the licence, and(ii) that the contravention or contraventions have caused, are causing or are likely to cause, harm to the environment, or(b) the appropriate regulatory authority reasonably suspects that an activity has been or is being carried out by the holder of the licence in an environmentally unsatisfactory manner (within the meaning of section 95).s 175: Subst 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [13].
176 Certification of audit report
The audit report for a mandatory environmental audit is taken not to have been duly produced to the appropriate regulatory authority unless it is accompanied by—(a) a declaration signed by the holder of the licence certifying that the holder has not knowingly provided any false or misleading information to the environmental auditor and has provided all relevant information to the auditor, and(b) a declaration signed by the environmental auditor—(i) setting out the auditor’s qualifications, and(ii) certifying that the report is accurate, and that the auditor has not knowingly included any false or misleading information in it or failed to include any relevant information in it.
177 Offences
(1) False or misleading information to auditor A person who provides information to an environmental auditor in connection with a mandatory environmental audit, knowing the information to be false or misleading in a material respect, is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both, and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(2) Information not provided to auditor The holder of a licence who fails to provide information to an environmental auditor in connection with a mandatory environmental audit being carried out in relation to the licence, knowing the information to be materially relevant to the audit, is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both, and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(3) False or misleading information in audit report An environmental auditor who includes information in an audit report produced to the appropriate regulatory authority in connection with a mandatory environmental audit, knowing the information to be false or misleading in a material respect, is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both, and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(4) Information not included in audit report An environmental auditor who fails to provide information in an audit report produced to the appropriate regulatory authority in connection with a mandatory environmental audit, knowing the information to be materially relevant to the audit, is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both, and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(5) Retention of audit documentation The holder of a licence who—(a) fails to retain any written documentation required to be prepared by the holder in connection with a mandatory environmental audit for a period of at least 5 years after the audit report concerned was produced to the appropriate regulatory authority (or such other period as is prescribed by the regulations), oris guilty of an offence.(b) fails to produce during that period any such documentation to the appropriate regulatory authority on request,Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$240,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.s 177: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[48]–[50]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8].
178 Self-incriminatory information not exempt
Information must be supplied by a person in connection with a mandatory environmental audit, and this Part applies to any such information that is supplied, whether or not the information might incriminate the person.
179 Use of information
(1) Any information in an audit report or other documentation supplied to the appropriate regulatory authority in connection with a mandatory environmental audit may be taken into consideration by the appropriate regulatory authority and used for the purposes of this Act.(2) Without limiting the above, any such information is admissible in evidence in any prosecution of the holder of a licence for any offence (whether under this Act or otherwise).
Part 6.3
180–183 (Repealed)
ch 6, pt 6.3: Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[47].
s 180: Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[47].
s 181: Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[47].
s 182: Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[47].
s 183: Rep 2024 No 20, Sch 9[47].
Chapter 7 Investigation
Part 7.1 Preliminary
184 Purposes for which powers under Chapter may be exercised
Powers may be exercised under this Chapter for the following purposes—(a) for determining whether there has been compliance with or a contravention of this Act or the regulations or any environment protection licence, notice or requirement issued or made under this Act,(b) for obtaining information or records for purposes connected with the administration of this Act,(c) generally for administering this Act and protecting the environment.
185 Effect on other functions
(1) Nothing in this Chapter affects any function under any other Chapter of this Act or under any other Act.(2) Nothing in this Chapter limits conditions that can be attached to an environment protection licence.
186 Extension of Chapter to other environment protection legislation
This Chapter extends to the exercise of powers in connection with the following legislation—(a) Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 and the regulations under that Act,(a1) Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Act 2008 and the regulations under that Act,(b) Ozone Protection Act 1989 and the regulations under that Act,(b1) Pesticides Act 1999 and the regulations under that Act,(b2) Protection from Harmful Radiation Act 1990 and the regulations under that Act,(b3) Snowy Mountains Cloud Seeding Act 2004 and the regulations under that Act,(b4) Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 and the regulations under that Act,(b5) Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021 and the regulations under that Act,(b6) any other environment protection legislation prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph,(c) any repealed provision of any Act or regulation amended or repealed by this Act, in respect to offences committed against the Act or regulation before its repeal or in respect of any other matter that continues to have any force or effect (except as provided by or by regulations under Schedule 5),(d) any provision of the Pesticides Act 1978 in respect of offences committed under that Act (before its repeal by the Pesticides Act 1999) or in respect of any other matter that continues to have any force or effect (except as provided by regulations under Schedule 5 or under Schedule 2 to the Pesticides Act 1999).Accordingly, a reference in this Chapter to this Act or the regulations includes a reference to each of those Acts or regulations.s 186: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [12]; 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [2] [3]; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [7]; 2002 No 14, Sch 1 [8]; 2012 No 73, Sch 2.2; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [7]; 2021 No 31, Sch 3.3[1]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[51]; 2023 No 30, Sch 2.7[1]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[48].
Part 7.2 Authorised officers and enforcement officers
pt 7.2, hdg: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [9].
187 Appointment of authorised officers
(1) The EPA may appoint any person (including a class of persons) as an authorised officer for the purposes of this Act.(2) Any other regulatory authority may appoint any officer or employee of the authority (including a class of such officers or employees) as an authorised officer for the purposes of this Act.(2A) In addition, a regulatory authority that is a local council may appoint any officer or employee of another local council (including a class of such officers or employees) as an authorised officer for the purposes of this Act in respect of the appointing local council’s area.(3) In this section—employee of an authority includes a person whose services are used by the authority and who is, in respect of those services, subject to the direction and control of the authority.s 187: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [10]; 2002 No 53, Sch 1.22 [1]; 2002 No 112, Sch 1.23 [1].
188 Scope of authority
(1) An authorisation of a person as an authorised officer can be given generally, or subject to conditions, limitations or restrictions or only for limited purposes.(2) If such authorisation is given subject to conditions, limitations or restrictions or only for limited purposes, nothing in this Act authorises or requires the authorised officer to act in contravention of the conditions, limitations or restrictions or for other purposes.(3) The authorisation of an authorised officer appointed by a regulatory authority other than the EPA is limited to matters concerning the functions of the regulatory authority under this Act.(4) Despite subsection (3) and any other provision of this Chapter, an authorised officer of a regulatory authority may exercise powers under this Chapter (other than under Part 7.6) for the purpose of determining whether a matter concerns the functions of the regulatory authority.s 188: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [11].
189 Identification
(1) Every authorised officer or enforcement officer, who is not a police officer, is to be provided with an identification card as an authorised officer or enforcement officer by the regulatory or other authority that appointed the officer.(2) In the course of exercising the functions of an authorised officer or enforcement officer under this Act, the officer must, if requested to do so by any person affected by the exercise of any such function, produce to the person the officer’s identification card, issued in accordance with this section, or, in the case of a police officer, the officer’s police identification.(3) It is sufficient compliance with subsection (2) if an enforcement officer, acting in the capacity of an enforcement officer, who is also an authorised officer produces his or her identification card as an authorised officer.s 189: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [12] [13]; 2004 No 55, Sch 1.20 [2]; 2008 No 62, Sch 1.27 [2].
189A Powers of enforcement officers
An enforcement officer has, in respect of any of the officer’s responsibilities or functions as an enforcement officer under this Act or the regulations, the functions of an authorised officer under this Chapter (other than section 204 (2) and Part 7.6) and this Chapter applies accordingly.s 189A: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [14].
Part 7.3 Powers to require information or records
190 Application of Part
This Part applies whether or not a power of entry under Part 7.4 is being or has been exercised.
191 Requirement to provide information and records (EPA)
(1) The EPA may, by notice in writing given to a person, require the person to furnish to it such information or records (or both) as it requires by the notice in connection with any matter relating to its responsibilities or functions under this Act.(2) This section is not limited to matters in respect of which the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority.
192 Requirement to provide information and records (other regulatory authorities)
(1) A regulatory authority (other than the EPA) may, by notice in writing given to a person, require the person to furnish to it such information or records (or both) as it requires by the notice in connection with any matter relating to its responsibilities or functions under this Act.(2) This section is limited to matters in respect of which the authority is the appropriate regulatory authority.
193 Requirement to provide information and records (authorised officers)
(1) An authorised officer may, by notice in writing given to a person, require the person to furnish to the officer such information or records (or both) as the officer requires by the notice in connection with any matter within the responsibilities and functions of the regulatory authority that appointed the officer.(2) In the case of authorised officers appointed by the EPA, this section is not limited to matters in respect of which the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority.
194 Manner, time etc for compliance
A notice under this Part must specify the manner in which information or records are required to be furnished and a reasonable time by which the information or records are required to be furnished.
195 Provisions relating to records
(1) A notice under this Part may only require a person to furnish existing records that are in the person’s possession or that are within the person’s power to obtain lawfully.(2) The body or person to whom any record is furnished under this Part may take copies of it.(3) If any record required to be furnished under this Part is in electronic, mechanical or other form, the notice requires the record to be furnished in written form, unless the notice otherwise provides.
Part 7.4 Powers of entry and search of premises
196 Powers of authorised officers to enter premises
(1) An authorised officer may enter—(a) any premises at which the authorised officer reasonably suspects that any industrial, agricultural or commercial activities are being carried out—at any time during which those activities are being carried out there, and(b) any premises at or from which the authorised officer reasonably suspects pollution has been, is being or is likely to be caused—at any time, and(b1) premises at or from which the authorised officer reasonably suspects an offence against this Act or the regulations involving an industrial chemical or an environmentally hazardous chemical is being or is likely to be committed—at any time, and(c) any other premises—at any reasonable time.(2) A power to enter premises conferred by this Act authorises entry by foot or by means of a motor vehicle or other vehicle, or by an aircraft or vessel, or in any other manner.(2A) If entry is effected by means of an unmanned vehicle, vessel or aircraft, the vehicle, vessel or aircraft must be operated by or under the authority of an authorised officer.(3) Entry may be effected under this Act by an authorised officer with the aid of such authorised officers or police officers as the authorised officer considers necessary and with the use of reasonable force.(4) Entry may be effected to any premises with the authority of a search warrant under section 199.s 196: Am 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [4]; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [8] [9]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[5].
197 Entry into residential premises only with permission or warrant
This Part does not empower an authorised officer to enter any part of premises used only for residential purposes without the permission of the occupier or the authority of a search warrant under section 199.
198 Powers of authorised officers to do things at premises
(1) An authorised officer may, at any premises lawfully entered, do anything that in the opinion of the authorised officer is necessary to be done for the purposes of this Chapter, including (but not limited to) the things specified in subsection (2).(2) An authorised officer may do any or all of the following—(a) examine and inspect any works, plant, vehicle, aircraft or other article,(b) take and remove samples,(c) make such examinations, inquiries and tests as the authorised officer considers necessary,(d) take such photographs, films, audio, video and other recordings as the authorised officer considers necessary,(e) require records to be produced for inspection,(f) examine and inspect any records,(g) copy any records,(h) seize anything the authorised officer reasonably suspects—(i) is connected with an offence against this Act or the regulations, or(ii) may present a risk of harm to human health or the environment,(h1) for the purposes of paragraph (h), direct the occupier of the premises where the thing is seized to retain it at those premises or at another place under the control of the occupier,(i) do any other thing the authorised officer is empowered to do under this Chapter.(3) The power to seize anything connected with an offence includes a power to seize—(a) a thing with respect to which the offence has been committed, and(b) a thing that will afford evidence of the commission of the offence, and(c) a thing that was used for the purpose of committing the offence.A reference to any such offence includes a reference to an offence that there are reasonable grounds for believing has been committed.s 198: Am 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [5] [6]; 2000 No 53, Sch 1.23 [1]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[49].
198A Power to disable intruder alarms
(1) An authorised officer may turn off or otherwise disable a building intruder alarm or a motor vehicle intruder alarm that is or has been sounding in breach of this Act or the regulations.(2) In this section—motor vehicle intruder alarm means a device that—(a) incorporates or connects to a sounding device, andbeing a device that is attached to or forms part of the motor vehicle for use as an intruder alarm, whether or not the device is also designed to be used for any other purpose.(b) on being triggered, causes the sounding device to emit sound,s 198A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [87].
199 Search warrants
(1) Application for search warrant An authorised officer under this Act may apply to an authorised officer within the meaning of the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 for the issue of a search warrant if the authorised officer under this Act believes on reasonable grounds that—(a) a provision of this Act or the regulations is being or has been contravened at any premises, or(b) there is in or on any premises matter or a thing that is connected with an offence under this Act or the regulations.(2) Issue of search warrant An authorised officer within the meaning of the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 to whom such an application is made may, if satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for doing so, issue a search warrant authorising an authorised officer under this Act named in the warrant—(a) to enter the premises, and(b) to exercise any function of an authorised officer under this Part.(3) Division 4 of Part 5 of the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 applies to a search warrant issued under this section.(4) Definition In this section—matter or a thing connected with an offence means—(a) matter or a thing with respect to which the offence has been committed, or(b) matter or a thing that will afford evidence of the commission of an offence, or(c) matter or a thing that was used, or is intended to be used, for the purpose of committing the offence.offence includes an offence that there are reasonable grounds for believing has been, or is to be, committed.Note—premises is defined in the Dictionary.s 199: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [15] [16]; 2002 No 103, Sch 4.73 [1]–[4].
199A Authorised officers may request assistance
A person may accompany an authorised officer and take all reasonable steps to assist an authorised officer in the exercise of the authorised officer’s functions under this Part if the authorised officer is of the opinion that the person is capable of providing assistance to the authorised officer in the exercise of those functions.s 199A: Ins 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [7].
200 Assistance to be given to authorised officers
(1) This section applies for the purpose of enabling an authorised officer to exercise any of the powers of an authorised officer under this Part in connection with any premises.(2) The EPA or other regulatory authority that appointed the authorised officer may, by notice in writing given to the owner or occupier of the premises, require the owner or occupier to provide such reasonable assistance and facilities as are specified in the notice within a specified time and in a specified manner.(3) Assistance and facilities can be required under this section, whether they are of the same kind as, or a different kind from, any prescribed by the regulations.
201 Care to be taken
In the exercise of a power of entering or searching premises under this Part, the authorised officer must do as little damage as possible.
202 Compensation
The EPA or other regulatory authority that appoints an authorised officer must compensate all interested parties for any damage caused by the authorised officer in exercising a power of entering premises (but not any damage caused by the exercise of any other power), unless the occupier obstructed or hindered the authorised officer in the exercise of the power of entry.
Part 7.5 Powers to question and to identify persons
203 Power of authorised officers to require answers
(1) An authorised officer may require a person whom the authorised officer suspects on reasonable grounds to have knowledge of matters in respect of which information is reasonably required for the purposes of this Act to answer questions in relation to those matters.(2) The EPA or any other regulatory authority may, by notice in writing, require a corporation to nominate, in writing within the time specified in the notice, a director or officer of the corporation to be the corporation’s representative for the purpose of answering questions under this section.(3) Answers given by a person nominated under subsection (2) bind the corporation.(4) In the case of authorised officers appointed by the EPA, subsection (1) is not limited to matters in respect of which the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority.(5) An authorised officer may, by notice in writing, require a person to attend at a specified place and time to answer questions under this section if attendance at that place is reasonably required in order that the questions can be properly put and answered.(6) The place and time at which a person may be required to attend under subsection (5) is to be—(a) a place or time nominated by the person, or(b) if the place and time nominated is not reasonable in the circumstances or a place and time is not nominated by the person, a place and time nominated by the authorised officer that is reasonable in the circumstances.(7) The authorised officer may, in the notice under subsection (5) or in a subsequent notice, authorise the person to answer the questions using an audio link or audio visual link of a kind approved by the authorised officer.(8) If the questions are to be answered by the person using an audio link or audio visual link—(a) the place at which the person is required to attend is taken to be any place having adequate facilities for the answering of questions in that way at the time nominated under subsection (6), and(b) the person must ensure the audio link or audio visual link is operated appropriately so that the answers given to the questions are clear to the authorised officer.(9) In this section—audio link means technology that enables continuous and contemporaneous audio communication between persons at different places, including telephones.audio visual link means technology that enables continuous and contemporaneous audio and visual communication between persons at different places, including video conferencing.(10) (Repealed)s 203: Am 1997 No 156, sec 203(10); 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [88]; 2020 No 5, Sch 1.25; 2021 No 5, Sch 1.22; 2022 No 5, Sch 1.14.
203A Recording of evidence
(1) An authorised officer may cause any questions and answers to questions given under this Part to be recorded if the officer has informed the person who is to be questioned that the record is to be made.(2) A record may be made using sound recording apparatus or audio visual apparatus, or any other method determined by the authorised officer.(3) A copy of any such record must be provided by the authorised officer to the person who is questioned as soon as practicable after it is made.(4) A record may be made under this section despite the provisions of any other law.s 203A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [89].
204 Power of authorised officers to demand name and address
(1) Name and address to be given if offence suspected An authorised officer may require a person whom the authorised officer suspects on reasonable grounds to have offended or to be offending against this Act or the regulations to state his or her full name and residential address.(2) Name and address to be given in connection with noise If an authorised officer forms the opinion on reasonable grounds that a noise control notice or a noise abatement direction may be issued under Part 8.6 against a person, the authorised officer may require the person to state the person’s full name and residential address.(2A) Proof of name and address An authorised officer may request a person who is required under this section to state his or her full name and residential address to provide proof of the name and address. It is not an offence under section 211 to fail to comply with any such request.(3) Power of arrest A person who, being required to do so under this section—(a) refuses to state his or her name or residential address, ormay without any other warrant than this Act be apprehended by the authorised officer and taken before a Magistrate or court officer to be dealt with according to law.(b) states a name or residential address that in the opinion of the authorised officer is false,(4) Bail A Magistrate or court officer before whom a person is taken under subsection (3) may make a bail decision under the Bail Act 2013 in respect of the person.(4A) If the person has not been charged with an offence, the Bail Act 2013 applies as if the person were accused of an offence.(4B) For the purpose of applying the Bail Act 2013, a court officer has the same functions as an authorised justice under that Act.(5) Maximum penalty The maximum penalty for an offence under section 211 in connection with a requirement under this section is 100 penalty units despite anything to the contrary in that section.(6) In this section—court officer means an authorised officer under the Criminal Procedure Act 1986.s 204: Am 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [1] [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [90]; 2014 No 5, Sch 2.27 [1]–[3].
Part 7.6 Powers with respect to vehicles, vessels and other articles
205 Definitions
In this Part—article includes any plant, motor or other vehicle, aircraft, vessel or other thing of any description.—(a) means, except in sections 206 and 208, only an authorised officer appointed by the EPA, and(b) extends, in sections 206 and 208, to a police officer, and(c) extends, in sections 206 and 208, in relation to vessels only, to an officer or employee of the marine authority authorised by the authority for the purposes of those sections, and(d) extends, in sections 206 and 208, in relation to vessels situated within marine parks and aquatic reserves, to an authorised officer appointed under the Marine Estate Management Act 2014 authorised by the relevant Ministers (within the meaning of that Act) for the purposes of those sections.s 205: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [2] [3]; 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [8]; 2004 No 91, Sch 2.65; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [91]; 2014 No 72, Sch 4.13 [1].
205A Application of Part
Nothing in this Part limits the functions that may be exercised under any other Part of this Chapter.s 205A: Ins 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [9].
206 Power to inspect and test
(1) An authorised officer may, for the purposes of this Chapter, inspect and test any article.(2) The authorised officer may, for the purposes of any such inspection or testing—(a) enter the article, and(b) enter in accordance with this Act the premises where the article is located, and(c) operate the article, and(d) take photographs or video films of the article, and(e) inspect or test any substance being carried by the article or in any container on the article (including in a fuel tank), and(f) take a sample of any such substance for testing.s 206: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [4]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [92].
206A Powers relating to vehicles suspected of transporting industrial chemicals or environmentally hazardous chemicals
(1) An authorised officer who suspects on reasonable grounds that an industrial chemical or an environmentally hazardous chemical is being transported by, or is situated in a container being transported by, a vehicle or vessel may—(a) if the vehicle or vessel is moving—direct that the vehicle or vessel be stopped, and(b) take, for the purpose of examination or testing, samples of a substance being transported, and(c) detain the vehicle or vessel for the time necessary to take the samples.(2) If the authorised officer suspects on reasonable grounds that the substance and a vehicle, vessel or container being used to transport the substance has been or is being used in connection with an offence against this Act or the regulations, the authorised officer may do one or more of the following—(a) seize and remove the substance and the vehicle, vessel or container,(b) direct the occupier of the place where the substance is seized to keep the substance in that place,(c) direct the owner of the substance to keep the substance in a place under the control of the occupier or owner that will, in the officer’s opinion, least endanger the environment,(d) give directions for, or in relation to, the detention of the substance, vehicle, vessel or container.(3) Sections 199A–202 extend to the exercise of functions under this section.s 206A: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[6].
207 Power to require articles to be tested or inspected
(1) An authorised officer may, by notice in writing, require the owner or person in possession of an article specified in the notice to have the article tested or inspected, within the time so specified, for the purpose of determining whether the article complies with the requirements of this Act or the regulations.(2) Any such notice may require the article—(a) to be tested or inspected at a specified place (being a place within 80 kilometres of the owner’s or person’s residence or place of business), or(b) to be tested or inspected by or in the presence of an authorised officer, or(c) to be tested or inspected at a place approved by the EPA by a person approved by the EPA.(3) Any such notice may be revoked or varied by a further notice given by an authorised officer.(4) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the approval by the EPA of—(a) the places at which articles are to be tested or inspected for the purposes of this section, and(b) the persons who may carry out any such testing or inspection.(5) Without limiting subsection (4), the regulations may make provision for or with respect to the following—(a) the issue, transfer, conditions, variation, surrender, review, suspension or revocation of an approval (including applications for the issue, transfer, variation or surrender of approvals) for the purposes of this section,(b) the maximum fee that may be charged with respect to the testing or inspection of an article under subsection (2) (c).s 207: Am 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [3]–[5].
208 Stopping of vehicles and vessels for inspection or testing
(1) The driver or person in charge of a vehicle or vessel that is being used in any place must, for the purpose of enabling an authorised officer to inspect or test it under this Part, comply with any reasonable direction by an authorised officer—(a) to stop the vehicle or vessel (being a direction given by displaying a sign or by any other reasonable method), or(b) relating to facilitating the inspection or testing of the vehicle or vessel by an authorised officer, or(c) to move the vehicle or vessel to a suitable place for inspection or testing.(2) If a vehicle or vessel has been stopped in compliance with such a direction (other than a direction to move the vehicle or vessel to a suitable place for inspection or testing at a later time), inspection and testing of it under this section must be carried out—(a) at or as near as practicable to the place where the direction to stop the vehicle or vessel is given, and(b) as soon as practicable, and in any case within one hour, after the vehicle or vessel is stopped in accordance with the direction.(2A) If a direction is given to move a vehicle or vessel to a suitable place for inspection or testing and the inspection or testing is not to take place at the time, the direction must be given by notice in writing specifying the time, date and place for the inspection or testing.(3) The maximum penalty for an offence under section 211 in connection with a requirement under this section is 30 penalty units despite anything to the contrary in that section.(4) In this section, vehicle includes aircraft.s 208: Am 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [10]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [93]–[95].
209 Power to seize articles (other than vehicles or vessels) to test for noise
(1) An authorised officer may take possession of an article (other than a vehicle or vessel) and take it to a place approved by the EPA for the purpose of measuring its noise level or its noise emission characteristics.(2) An authorised officer who takes possession of an article under this section must provide the person from whom it is taken with a receipt that—(a) specifies the make, model and serial number of the article, or any other information that will identify the article, and(b) specifies the time and date of issue of the receipt, and(c) specifies a date (being a date not more than 21 days after the date of issue) on or before which the article will be returned, and(d) is signed by the authorised officer issuing it.(3) The authorised officer must return the article to its owner, or to the person from whose possession it was taken, on or before the date specified in the receipt for its return.
210 Power to require information about articles
The EPA may, by notice under Part 7.3, require—(a) the owner of an article, orto furnish it with information relating to any such article.(b) the person by whom articles of a specified class or description were manufactured, assembled, imported, sold or supplied for sale,
Part 7.6A Seizure of motor vehicles or vessels used to commit repeat waste offences
pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
210A Definitions
(1) In this Part—repeat waste offence means an offence against section 144AB, and includes any such offence that there are reasonable grounds for believing has been committed.(2) A power conferred by this Part to seize a motor vehicle or vessel includes a power to remove the motor vehicle or vessel from the place where it is found and to secure the motor vehicle or vessel from interference.pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
210B Seizure of motor vehicles or vessels used to commit repeat waste offences
(1) The EPA may seize a motor vehicle or vessel that the EPA has reason to believe has been used for the purpose of committing a repeat waste offence.(2) The State, the EPA or any other person is not liable for a seizure under this Part for which there was reasonable cause.pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
210C Forfeiture of motor vehicles or vessels by order of court
(1) The Land and Environment Court may order the forfeiture of a motor vehicle or vessel that has been seized under this Part in connection with a repeat waste offence if the Court convicts a person of the offence.(2) The Land and Environment Court is not to order the forfeiture of the motor vehicle or vessel if it is satisfied that the motor vehicle or vessel was used without the authority of its owner or that its owner did not have reasonable cause to suspect that the motor vehicle or vessel would be used to commit the offence.(3) To avoid doubt, a forfeiture order is not a monetary penalty for the purposes of the provision of this Act that provides for the maximum monetary penalty that may be imposed by a court in proceedings for a repeat waste offence.pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
210D Return of seized motor vehicle or vessel
(1) If any motor vehicle or vessel has been seized under this Part in connection with a repeat waste offence and—(a) proceedings for the offence are not commenced in the Land and Environment Court within 28 days after the seizure, or(b) any such proceedings are commenced but are dismissed without a conviction for the offence, orthe EPA must return the motor vehicle or vessel to its owner.(c) the Land and Environment Court convicts a person of the offence but does not order the forfeiture of the motor vehicle or vessel,(2) If a person disputes the seizure of a motor vehicle or vessel under this Part, the EPA may allow the motor vehicle or vessel to be delivered to the person disputing the seizure, subject to the person giving security to pay its value to the EPA should it be forfeited.(3) The EPA may, at any time, return a motor vehicle or vessel seized under this Part to its owner on such conditions (if any) as the EPA thinks fit. This subsection has effect whether forfeiture has taken place or not.(4) A motor vehicle or vessel that is seized is returned to its owner for the purposes of this Part if it is returned to the person who owns it or to a person from whose possession it was seized.(5) If the owner of the motor vehicle or vessel or any such person has died, the motor vehicle or vessel may be returned to the legal personal representative of the owner or person.pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
210E Forfeited motor vehicles or vessels become the property of the State
(1) A motor vehicle or vessel ordered by the Land and Environment Court to be forfeited under this Part (or the proceeds of sale of any such motor vehicle or vessel) becomes the property of the State.(2) Any such motor vehicle or vessel may (subject to the regulations) be sold or disposed of in such manner as the EPA thinks fit.pt 7.6A (ss 210A–210E): Ins 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [6].
Part 7.7 General
211 Offences
(1) A person who, without lawful excuse, neglects or fails to comply with a requirement made of the person under this Chapter is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty, subject to sections 204 and 208—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(2) A person who furnishes any information or does any other thing in purported compliance with a requirement made under this Chapter, knowing that it is false or misleading in a material respect is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty, subject to sections 204 and 208—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both, and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(3) A person who delays, obstructs, assaults, threatens or intimidates an authorised officer in the exercise of the authorised officer’s powers under this Chapter is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty, subject to sections 204 and 208—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(3A) A person who wilfully delays, obstructs, assaults, threatens or intimidates an authorised officer in the exercise of the authorised officer’s powers under this Chapter is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty, subject to sections 204 and 208—(a) for a corporation—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $480,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues.(3B) If the court is satisfied that a person charged with an offence under subsection (3A) is not guilty of that offence but is satisfied on the evidence that the person is guilty of an offence under subsection (3), the court may find the person guilty of the offence under subsection (3), and the person is liable to punishment accordingly.(4) A person who impersonates an authorised officer is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty, subject to sections 204 and 208—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.s 211: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [96]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[52]–[55]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[5]–[8] [50].
212 Provisions relating to requirements to furnish records, information or answer questions
(1) Warning to be given on each occasion A person is not guilty of an offence of failing to comply with a requirement under this Chapter to furnish records or information or to answer a question unless the person was warned on that occasion that a failure to comply is an offence.(2) Self-incrimination not an excuse A person is not excused from a requirement under this Chapter to furnish records or information or to answer a question on the ground that the record, information or answer might incriminate the person or make the person liable to a penalty.(3) Information or answer not admissible if objection made However, any information furnished or answer given by a natural person in compliance with a requirement under this Chapter is not admissible in evidence against the person in criminal proceedings (except proceedings for an offence under this Chapter) if—(a) the person objected at the time to doing so on the ground that it might incriminate the person, or(b) the person was not warned on that occasion that the person may object to furnishing the information or giving the answer on the ground that it might incriminate the person.(4) Records admissible Any record furnished by a person in compliance with a requirement under this Chapter is not inadmissible in evidence against the person in criminal proceedings on the ground that the record might incriminate the person.(5) Further information Further information obtained as a result of a record or information furnished or of an answer given in compliance with a requirement under this Chapter is not inadmissible on the ground—(a) that the record or information had to be furnished or the answer had to be given, or(b) that the record or information furnished or answer given might incriminate the person.(6) Requirement to state name and address This section extends to a requirement under this Chapter to state a person’s name and address.
212A Revocation or variation
(1) A notice given under this Chapter may be revoked or varied by a subsequent notice or notices.(2) A notice may be varied by—(a) including a new term or specification in the notice, or(b) substituting, omitting or amending a term or specification in the notice.(3) Without limiting the above, a notice may be varied by extending the time for complying with the notice.(4) A notice may only be revoked or varied by—(a) the authority that gave the notice, or(b) the authorised officer who gave the notice, or(c) another authorised officer who is a member of staff of the authority that appointed the officer who gave the notice.s 212A: Ins 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [13]. Am 2009 No 56, Sch 1.32 [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[51].
212B Extraterritorial application
A notice may be given under this Chapter to a person in respect of a matter even though the person is outside the State or the matter occurs or is located outside the State, so long as the matter affects the environment of this State.s 212B: Ins 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [10].
212C Actions by incorrect regulatory authority
(1) This section applies if a regulatory authority or an authorised officer of the authority exercises functions under this Act or the regulations relating to an activity or work that—(a) is not authorised or controlled by an environment protection licence, and(b) in relation to which the authority is not the appropriate regulatory authority.(2) A regulatory authority must, as soon as practicable after becoming aware of any such exercise of functions, notify the appropriate regulatory authority in writing of the functions so exercised and of any such functions that it proposes to continue to exercise or to cease to exercise in relation to the matter.(3) A regulatory authority or an authorised officer of the authority may (but is not required to), if notice is given in accordance with subsection (2), continue to exercise functions under this Act or the regulations relating to the activity or work until—(a) directed to do otherwise by the appropriate regulatory authority, or(b) an environment protection licence is granted in respect of the activity or work concerned.(4) The appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing, direct a regulatory authority (including its authorised officers) not to exercise functions under this Act or the regulations in relation to an activity or work if it becomes aware that the other authority or an authorised officer of that authority is exercising, or has exercised, functions of the appropriate regulatory authority in relation to that activity or work.(5) A direction given by the appropriate regulatory authority or the grant of a licence does not affect any proceedings already commenced by the other regulatory authority or an officer of that authority in respect of the activity or work and, for that purpose, this section and section 212D apply as if the direction had not been given or the licence had not been granted.(6) For the purposes of this Act and the regulations and any proceedings, a regulatory authority or an authorised officer of that authority who exercises a function as referred to in subsection (1), or who continues to exercise a function in accordance with subsection (3), is taken to be the appropriate regulatory authority or an authorised officer of the appropriate regulatory authority in relation to the activity or work concerned and this Act applies accordingly.s 212C: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [17]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [97].
212D Appropriate regulatory authority may continue to exercise functions
(1) If a regulatory authority (including an authorised officer) is required to cease to exercise functions, or ceases to exercise functions, under section 212C (3) or (4), the appropriate regulatory authority or an authorised officer of that authority may continue to exercise any functions commenced by the other regulatory authority or an authorised officer, as if the functions had been exercised by the appropriate regulatory authority or an authorised officer of that authority.(2) For the purposes of this Act and the regulations and any proceedings, any function previously exercised by the other regulatory authority (including an authorised officer) relating to the activity or work concerned is taken to have been exercised by the appropriate regulatory authority (or an authorised officer of that authority) and this Act applies accordingly.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), any notice or direction given by the other authority or an authorised officer of the authority may be enforced, or varied or revoked, as if it had been given by the appropriate regulatory authority or an authorised officer of that authority.(4) A notice issued by the other authority or an authorised officer of the authority is taken to be varied, to the extent of any inconsistency, if a subsequent inconsistent notice is issued by or on behalf of the appropriate regulatory authority or an authorised officer of that authority.(5) Nothing in this section affects the right of the other regulatory authority to recover a fee, charge or cost under this Act in relation to a notice given while exercising functions as referred to in section 212C (1) or (3).s 212D: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [17].
212E Extraterritorial exercise of functions
(1) The Minister may enter into an arrangement with a Minister of another State or Territory providing for the exercise, in another State or Territory, by authorised officers or by officers of that State or Territory of functions under this Act or the regulations.(2) An authorised officer or an officer of another State or Territory may, in accordance with any such arrangement, exercise functions under this Act, but only to the extent that the matters concerned relate to the environment of this State.s 212E: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [98].
Chapter 8 Criminal and other proceedings
Part 8.1 Preliminary
213 Application of Chapter and extension of Chapter to other environment protection legislation
(1) This Chapter applies to proceedings in connection with this Act.(2) This Chapter extends to proceedings in connection with the following Acts, including the regulations made under each Act (the relevant legislation)—(a) (Repealed)(e) any other environment protection legislation prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.(3) A reference in this Chapter to this Act or the regulations includes a reference to the relevant legislation.(4) The following provisions of this Chapter do not extend to proceedings under the relevant legislation specified—(a) (Repealed)(b) for the Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021—sections 216–218, 256, 259 and 261.s 213: Am 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [8]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [99] [100]. Subst 2021 No 31, Sch 3.3[2]. Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[56]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[7].
Part 8.2 Proceedings for offences
Division 1 Proceedings for offences generally
214 Proceedings for tier 1 offences
(1) Proceedings for an offence arising under Part 5.2 may be dealt with—(a) summarily before the Land and Environment Court in its summary jurisdiction, or(b) on indictment before the Supreme Court.(2) If any such proceedings are brought in the Land and Environment Court, the maximum period of imprisonment that the Court may impose for the offence is 2 years, despite any other provision of this Act.
215 Proceedings for other offences
(1) Proceedings for an offence arising under this Act or the regulations (other than under Part 5.2) may be dealt with—(a) summarily before the Local Court, or(b) summarily before the Land and Environment Court in its summary jurisdiction.(2) If any such proceedings are brought in the Local Court, the maximum monetary penalty that the Court may impose for the offence is 2,000 penalty units, despite any other provision of this Act.s 215: Am 1999 No 85, Sch 2.50; 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [3]; 2007 No 94, Sch 2; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [14]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[52].
216 Time within which summary proceedings may be commenced
(1) Proceedings for an offence under this Act or the regulations may be commenced—(a) in the case of a prescribed offence—within but not later than 3 years after the date on which the offence is alleged to have been committed, or(b) in any other case—within but not later than 12 months after that date.(2) Proceedings for an offence under this Act or the regulations may also be commenced—(a) in the case of a prescribed offence—within but not later than 3 years after the date on which evidence of the alleged offence first came to the attention of any relevant authorised officer, or(b) in any other case—within but not later than 12 months after that date.(3) If subsection (2) is relied on for the purpose of commencing proceedings for an offence, the court attendance notice or application must contain particulars of the date on which evidence of the offence first came to the attention of any relevant authorised officer and need not contain particulars of the date on which the offence was committed. The date on which evidence first came to the attention of any relevant authorised officer is the date specified in the court attendance notice or application, unless the contrary is established.(4) This section applies only to proceedings that are to be dealt with summarily.(5) This section applies despite anything in the Criminal Procedure Act 1986 or any other Act.(6) In this section—means any person who is an authorised officer for the purposes of this Act, whether or not the person has the functions of an authorised officer in connection with the offence concerned.evidence of an offence means evidence of any act or omission constituting the offence.prescribed offence means—(a) an offence arising under Part 5.2, or(b) an offence arising under Part 3.2, or(c) an offence arising under section 143 (Unlawful transporting of waste) or 144 (Use of place as waste facility without lawful authority), or(ca) an offence under section 144AAA (Unlawful disposal of asbestos waste) or 144AAB (Re-use and recycling of asbestos waste prohibited), or(c1) an offence under section 142A (Pollution of land) or 144AA (False or misleading information about waste), or(c1a) an offence under section 167A (False or misleading information), or(c2) (Repealed)(c3) an offence under section 120 (Prohibition of pollution of waters) but only in relation to underground or artesian water, or(c4) an offence under section 144AB (Repeat waste offenders), or(c5) an offence arising under section 169A (Liability of directors etc for offences by corporation—offences attracting executive liability generally) that is in respect of an offence against section 47 (1), 48 (2) or 144AA (1) committed by a corporation, or(c6) an offence arising under section 169B (Liability of directors etc for offences by corporation—accessory to the commission of the offences) that is in respect of an offence referred to in paragraphs (a)–(c3) committed by a corporation, or(c7) an offence under section 296C(1), or(c8) an offence under section 296E(1), or(d) an offence against this Act that is declared by the regulations to be a prescribed offence for the purposes of this section.means—(a) in relation to proceedings for an offence instituted by or with the consent of the EPA or a member of the staff of the EPA—any authorised officer who is a member of the staff of the EPA, or(b) in relation to proceedings for an offence instituted by or with the consent of a local authority or an officer or employee of such an authority—any authorised officer who is an officer or employee of that authority, or(c) in relation to proceedings for an offence instituted by any other person—any authorised officer.s 216: Am 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [4] [5]; 2004 No 55, Sch 1.20 [3] [4]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [101]; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [7]; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [10]; 2017 No 63, Sch 1.15 [1]; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [10]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[57] [58]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[8] [9].
216A Multiple contraventions
(1) Two or more contraventions of a provision of environment protection legislation by a person that arise out of the following may be charged as a single offence or as separate offences—(a) the same factual circumstances,(b) the same activity being carried on at the same premises.(2) This section does not authorise contraventions of 2 or more provisions of environment protection legislation to be charged as a single offence.(3) A single penalty only may be imposed in relation to 2 or more contraventions of a provision that are charged as a single offence.s 216A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[53].
Division 2 Who may institute proceedings for offences
217 EPA or other appropriate regulatory authority may institute proceedings
(1) EPA Proceedings for an offence against this Act or the regulations may be instituted by the EPA.(2) Other appropriate regulatory authority Any such proceedings may also be instituted by the appropriate regulatory authority, if it is not the EPA, in connection with a matter for which it is the appropriate regulatory authority.
218 Other authorities who may also institute proceedings
(1) Local authority—offences other than excluded offences A local authority may institute proceedings for any offence against this Act or the regulations (other than an excluded offence).(2) Water Supply Authority A Water Supply Authority (within the meaning of the Water Management Act 2000) may institute proceedings for a water pollution offence (other than an excluded offence).(3) Marine authority The marine authority may institute proceedings for a noise pollution offence referred to in subsection (6) (d) or (e).(3A) The following persons may institute proceedings for a littering offence—(a) the Secretary of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water or a person authorised by the Secretary,(b) the Secretary of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure or a person authorised by the Secretary,(c) the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust constituted under the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Act 2022 or a person authorised by the Trust,(d) the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust constituted under the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust Act 1980 or a person authorised by the Trust,(e) a public authority or person prescribed by the regulations.(4) Police officers Police officers may institute proceedings for—(a) a noise pollution offence, or(b) a littering offence, or(c) an offence against the regulations relating to the operation of a motor vehicle (being an offence prescribed for the purposes of this subsection).(5) Applicant for noise abatement order A person who was the applicant for a noise abatement order may institute proceedings for an offence against section 269 of contravening the order.(6) Excluded offences For the purposes of this section, an offence is an excluded offence if it is an offence (other than a littering offence) committed in relation to—(a) scheduled activities, or(b) activities or work authorised or controlled by an environment protection licence, or(c) activities carried on by the State or a public authority, whether at premises occupied by the State or a public authority or otherwise, or(c1) activities carried on by an authorised network operator (within the meaning of the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015) whether at premises occupied by the authorised network operator or otherwise, or(d) in the case of a noise pollution offence—a vessel in navigable waters, oror it is any other offence prescribed by the regulations as an excluded offence.(e) in the case of a noise pollution offence—premises used in connection with vessels and situated adjacent to, or partly or wholly over, navigable waters,(7) Other definitions In this section—littering offence means an offence arising under Part 5.6AA or 5.6A.noise pollution offence means an offence arising under Part 5.5, 8.6 or any other provision prescribed for the purposes of this definition.water pollution offence means an offence arising under Part 5.3 or any other provision prescribed for the purposes of this definition.s 218: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [10] [11]; 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [11]; 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [3]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[54] [55].
218A Agents may institute proceedings
Proceedings that may be instituted under section 217 or 218 may also be instituted on behalf of an appropriate regulatory authority or any other authority or person specified in those sections by an agent of the authority or person appointed for that purpose.s 218A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [102].
219 Other persons may institute proceedings with leave of Land and Environment Court
(1) Any person may institute proceedings in the Land and Environment Court for an offence against this Act or the regulations if the Court grants the person leave to bring the proceedings.(1A) An appropriate regulatory authority (other than the EPA) and any person or authority referred to in section 218 may institute proceedings in the Land and Environment Court for an offence against this Act or the regulations, if the Court grants the authority leave to bring the proceedings.(1B) Nothing in section 217 or 218 limits the operation of this section.(2) The Land and Environment Court is not to grant leave unless satisfied that—(a) the EPA has decided not to take any relevant action (as defined in subsection (3)) in respect of the act or omission constituting the alleged offence or has not made a decision on whether to take such action within 90 days after the person or authority requested the EPA to institute the proceedings, and(b) the EPA has been notified of the proceedings, and(c) the proceedings are not an abuse of the process of the Court, and(d) the particulars of the offence disclose, without any hearing of the evidence, a prima facie case of the commission of the offence.(3) Relevant action for the purposes of subsection (2) is not limited to the institution of criminal proceedings, but includes action under this Act to require the defendant to prevent, control, abate or mitigate any harm to the environment caused by the alleged offence or to prevent the continuance or recurrence of the alleged offence.s 219: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [18] [19].
220 Officers and employees of authorities
(1) If an authority is authorised by this Division to institute proceedings for an offence, the proceedings may also be instituted by an officer or employee of the authority with the written consent of—(a) the authority, or(b) such member, officer or employee of the authority as may be authorised by the authority for the purposes of this Division.(2) In this section—employee of an authority includes a person whose services are used by the authority and who is, in respect of those services, subject to the direction and control of the authority.s 220: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [20].
221 Penalty notices and related proceedings
(1) This Division does not affect the power to issue a penalty notice under Division 3 or the taking of enforcement proceedings in relation to the penalty notice or in relation to the offence to which the penalty notice relates.(2) Enforcement proceedings include proceedings under Part 3 or 4 of the Fines Act 1996, including, in particular, proceedings taken under section 37 of that Act in respect of the offence to which the penalty notice relates, where the person concerned elects to have the matter dealt with by a court.(3) Proceedings referred to in subsection (2) in respect of the offence to which the penalty notice relates may be instituted—(a) by a person who is an enforcement officer within the meaning of section 226 in relation to the class of offence concerned, or(b) if such an enforcement officer is an officer or employee of a public authority—by the public authority, or by an officer or employee of the public authority under section 220.(4) In this section—employee of an authority includes a person whose services are used by the authority and who is, in respect of those services, subject to the direction and control of the authority.s 221: Subst 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [12]. Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [21] [22].
Division 3 Penalty notices (tier 3 offences)
222, 223 (Repealed)
s 222: Rep 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[1].
s 223: Rep 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[1].
224 Penalty notices
(1) An enforcement officer may issue a penalty notice to a person if it appears to the enforcement officer that the person has committed a penalty notice offence.(2) A penalty notice offence is an offence against this Act or the regulations that is prescribed by the regulations as a penalty notice offence.(3) The Fines Act 1996 applies to a penalty notice issued under this section.Note—The Fines Act 1996 provides that, if a person issued with a penalty notice does not wish to have the matter determined by a court, the person may pay the amount specified in the notice and is not liable to any further proceedings for the alleged offence.(4) The amount payable under a penalty notice issued under this section is the amount prescribed for the alleged offence by the regulations, not exceeding the maximum amount of penalty that could be imposed for the offence by a court.(5) In addition to any manner of issuing a penalty notice provided for by the Fines Act 1996, a penalty notice may be issued under this section by leaving the notice on a vehicle or at premises in respect of which the offence was committed.s 224: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [23]; 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[2]–[4].
225 (Repealed)
s 225: Rep 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[1].
226 Enforcement officers
(1) In this Division, a reference to an enforcement officer, in relation to an offence, is a reference to a person belonging to a class of officers or employees prescribed by the regulations in relation to the offence.(2) A person who is an officer or employee of a public authority cannot be an enforcement officer in relation to an offence alleged to have been committed by the authority.(3) Only an officer or employee of the EPA can be an enforcement officer in relation to—(a) an offence (other than a littering offence) alleged to have been committed in relation to activities or work authorised or controlled by an environment protection licence, or(b) an offence (other than a littering offence) alleged to have been committed in relation to activities carried on by the State or a public authority, or(c) an offence (other than a littering offence) alleged to have been committed in relation to activities carried on by an authorised network operator (within the meaning of the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015).(4) In this section, littering offence means an offence arising under Part 5.6AA or 5.6A.s 226: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [13]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [24] [25]; 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [4]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[56].
227 (Repealed)
s 227: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [14]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [26]. Rep 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[1].
228 Withdrawal of penalty notice
(1) An enforcement officer belonging to the same class of officers as the enforcement officer by whom a penalty notice has been issued—(a) may withdraw the notice within 28 days after the date on which the notice was issued, and(b) must withdraw the notice immediately if directed to do so by the EPA.(2) The following provisions have effect in relation to an alleged offence if a penalty notice for the alleged offence is withdrawn in accordance with this section—(a) The amount that was payable under the notice ceases to be payable.(b) Any amount that has been paid under the notice is repayable to the person by whom it was paid.(c) Further proceedings in respect of the alleged offence may be taken against any person (including the person to whom the notice was issued) as if the notice had never been issued.s 228: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [27]; 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[5] [6].
229 Effect on other provisions
This Division does not limit the operation of any other provision of, or made under, this or any other Act in relation to proceedings that may be taken in relation to offences.s 229: Am 2020 No 30, Sch 1.35[7].
Division 4 Restraining orders
230 Application of Division
(1) This Division applies where—(a) proceedings have been commenced against a person for an offence against this Act or the regulations and, as a result of those proceedings, the person may be required to pay an amount referred to in section 246, or(b) proceedings have been commenced against a person under section 247, or(c) proceedings have been commenced against a person for an offence against this Act or the regulations and, as a result of the proceedings, the person may be required to pay an amount that represents the amount of monetary benefits referred to in section 167B or 249, or(d) proceedings have been commenced against a person under section 251A and, as a result of the proceedings, the person may be required to pay an amount that represents the amount of monetary benefits referred to in section 251A.(2) In this Division—the defendant means the person referred to in subsection (1)(a), (b), (c) or (d).s 230: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[59] [60].
231 Nature of restraining order
(1) A restraining order is an order of a court directing that any property of the defendant is not to be disposed of, or otherwise dealt with, by the defendant or by any other person, except in such manner and in such circumstances (if any) as are specified in the order.(2) For the purposes of this section, the property of the defendant includes the amount that represents the amount of any monetary benefits acquired by the offender, or accrued or accruing to the offender.s 231: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[61].
232 Application for restraining order
(1) The person bringing the proceedings (as referred to in section 230) may apply for a restraining order in relation to property of the defendant.(2) An application under this section may be made—(a) in the case of proceedings taken before the Local Court—to the Land and Environment Court, and(b) in the case of other proceedings—to the court before which the proceedings are brought.(3) On an application under this section—(a) the court may, if it thinks fit, require the person making the application to give notice of the application to a person who the court has reason to believe has an interest in the property or part of the property, and(b) a person to whom the court requires notice to be given under paragraph (a) is entitled to appear and to adduce evidence at the hearing of the application.s 232: Am 2007 No 94, Sch 2.
233 Making of restraining order
On an application under section 232, the court may make a restraining order in relation to the defendant’s property, if it is satisfied (on the information contained in or accompanying the application) that—(a) the defendant has committed the relevant offence, and(b) amounts are or are likely to be payable under section 246 or 247, and(c) it is appropriate to make an order under this section in the circumstances of the case.
234 Undertakings
The court may refuse to make a restraining order if the person making the application refuses or fails to give to the court such undertakings as the court considers appropriate with respect to the payment of damages or costs, or both, in relation to the making or operation of the order.
235 Ancillary orders
(1) A court that makes a restraining order may make any ancillary orders that the court considers appropriate.(2) Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), ancillary orders may include any one or more of the following—(a) an order for the examination on oath of—(i) the defendant, orbefore the court, or an officer of the court prescribed by rules of court, concerning the affairs of the defendant, including the nature and location of any property of the defendant,(ii) another person,(b) an order varying the restraining order in respect of the property to which it relates,(c) an order varying any conditions to which the restraining order was subject.(3) An ancillary order may be made on application—(a) by the applicant for the restraining order, or(b) by the defendant, or(c) with the leave of the court, by any other person.(4) Ancillary orders may be made when or at any time after the restraining order is made. An ancillary order referred to in subsection (2) (a) may be made in advance of the restraining order.
236 Charge on property subject to restraining orders
(1) Creation of charge If—(a) a court has made a restraining order in respect of particular property or all of the property of the defendant, andthere is created by force of this section, on the making of the order referred to in paragraph (b), a charge on all the property to which the restraining order applies to secure the payment to a public authority or person of the amount referred to in section 246 or 247.(b) the court orders the payment of an amount referred to in section 246 or 247,(2) When charge ceases to have effect Such a charge ceases to have effect in respect of the property—(a) on payment by the defendant to the public authority or person of the amount concerned, or(b) on the sale or other disposition of the property with the consent of the court, orwhichever first occurs.(c) on the sale of the property to a purchaser in good faith for value who, at the time of the sale, has no notice of the charge,(3) Charge is subject to existing charges and encumbrances Such a charge is subject to every charge or encumbrance to which the property was subject immediately before the order referred to in subsection (1) (b) was made and, in the case of land under the provisions of the Real Property Act 1900, is subject to every mortgage, lease or other interest recorded in the Register kept under that Act.(4) Charge not affected by change of ownership Such a charge is not affected by any change of ownership of the property, except as provided by subsection (2).(5) Registration of charge is notice If—(a) such a charge is created on property of a particular kind and the provisions of any law of the State provide for the registration of title to, or charges over, property of that kind, anda person who purchases or otherwise acquires the property after the registration of the charge is, for the purposes of subsection (2), taken to have notice of the charge.(b) the charge is so registered,(6) Charge on RP land not effective until registered If such a charge relates to land under the provisions of the Real Property Act 1900, the charge has no effect until it is registered under that Act.
237 Registration of restraining orders
(1) If a restraining order applies to property of a particular kind and the provisions of any law of the State provide for the registration of title to, or charges over, property of that kind, the authority responsible for administering the provisions is required, on application by any person, to record the particulars of the order in the register kept under those provisions.(2) If the particulars of a restraining order are so recorded, a person who afterwards deals with the property is, for the purposes of section 236 (2), taken to have notice of the charge created by this Act on the making of the order.(3) If a restraining order applies to land under the provisions of the Real Property Act 1900, a caveat may be lodged under that Act in relation to the order.
237A Recovery of costs of registering charge on land
(1) A person (including a public authority) who registers a charge on land to which a restraining order applies under section 236 may, by notice in writing, require the defendant to pay all or any of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the person in respect of the lodgment and registration of the charge (including the costs of discharging the charge).(2) The person may recover from the defendant any unpaid amounts specified in the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.s 237A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [103].
237B Recovery of costs of lodging caveat
(1) A person (including a public authority) who lodges a caveat in respect of land to which a restraining order applies under section 237 may, by notice in writing, require the defendant to pay all or any of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the person in respect of the lodgment and registration of the caveat (including the costs of withdrawal of the caveat).(2) The person may recover from the defendant any unpaid amounts specified in the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.s 237B: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [103].
238 Contravention of restraining orders
(1) Offence A person who knowingly contravenes a restraining order by disposing of, or otherwise dealing with, property that is subject to the order is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—A fine equivalent to the value of the property (as determined by the court) or imprisonment for 2 years, or both.(2) Application for order setting aside disposition of or dealing with property If—(a) a restraining order is made against property, and(b) the property is disposed of, or otherwise dealt with, in contravention of the restraining order, andthe person who applied for the restraining order may apply to the court that made the restraining order for an order that the disposition or dealing with the property be set aside.(c) the disposition or dealing was either not for sufficient consideration or not in favour of a person who acted in good faith,(3) Order setting aside disposition or dealing If an application is made under subsection (2), the court may make an order—(a) setting aside the disposition or dealing as from the day on which the disposition or dealing took place or as from the day of the order under this subsection, and(b) (if appropriate) declaring the respective rights of any persons who acquired interests in the property on or after the day on which the disposition or dealing took place and before the day of the order.
239 Court may revoke restraining order
(1) The court that made a restraining order may revoke the order, on application made to it by the person in relation to whose property it was made.(2) The court may refuse to revoke the order if the person does not—(a) give security satisfactory to the court for the payment of any amount referred to in section 246 or 247 that may be imposed on or ordered to be paid by the person under this Act in respect of the person’s conviction for the offence, or(b) give undertakings satisfactory to the court concerning the person’s property.(3) Subsection (2) does not limit the discretion of the court to revoke or refuse to revoke a restraining order.
240 Time when restraining order ceases to be in force
If, after a restraining order was made in reliance on the charging of a person with an offence against this Act or the regulations—(a) the charge is withdrawn and the person is not charged with a related offence by the time of the withdrawal—the restraining order ceases to be in force when the charge is withdrawn, or(b) the person is acquitted of the charge and the person is not charged with a related offence by the time of the acquittal—the restraining order ceases to be in force when the acquittal occurs.
Division 5 Sentencing
241 Matters to be considered in imposing penalty
(1) In imposing a penalty for an offence against this Act or the regulations, the court is to take into consideration the following (so far as they are relevant)—(a) the extent of the harm caused or likely to be caused to the environment by the commission of the offence,(b) the practical measures that may be taken to prevent, control, abate or mitigate that harm,(c) the extent to which the person who committed the offence could reasonably have foreseen the harm caused or likely to be caused to the environment by the commission of the offence,(d) the extent to which the person who committed the offence had control over the causes that gave rise to the offence,(e) whether, in committing the offence, the person was complying with orders from an employer or supervising employee,(f) the presence of asbestos in the environment.(2) The court may take into consideration other matters that it considers relevant.s 241: Am 2018 No 80, Sch 1[11].
Division 6 Continuing offences
pt 8.2, div 6, hdg: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [28].
242 Continuing offences
(1) A person who is guilty of an offence because the person contravenes a requirement made by or under this Act or the regulations (whether the requirement is imposed by a notice or otherwise) to do or cease to do something (whether or not within a specified period or before a particular time)—(a) continues, until the requirement is complied with and despite the fact that any specified period has expired or time has passed, to be liable to comply with the requirement, and(b) is guilty of a continuing offence for each day the contravention continues.(2) This section does not apply to an offence if the relevant provision of this Act or the regulations does not provide for a penalty for a continuing offence.(3) This section does not apply to the extent that a requirement of a notice is revoked.s 242: Am 1999 No 94, Sch 4.51 [1] [2]. Rep 2000 No 93, Sch 1.18 [6]. Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [28].
Part 8.3 Court orders in connection with offences
243 Operation of Part
(1) Application to proved offences This Part applies where a court finds an offence against this Act or regulations proved.(2) Meaning of proved offences Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), a court finds an offence proved if—(a) the court convicts the offender of the offence, or(b) the court makes an order under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 against the offender in relation to the offence (in which case the order is not a punishment for the purposes of that section).(3) Definitions In this Part—the court means the court that finds the offence proved.the offender means the person who is found to have committed the offence.s 243: Am 1999 No 94, Sch 4.51 [1].
244 Orders generally
(1) Orders may be made One or more orders may be made under this Part against the offender.(2) Orders are additional Orders may be made under this Part in addition to any penalty that may be imposed or any other action that may be taken in relation to the offence.(3) Other action not required Orders may be made under this Part regardless of whether any penalty is imposed, or other action taken, in relation to the offence.s 244: Am 2002 No 112, Sch 1.23 [2].
245 Orders for restoration and prevention
The court may order the offender to take such steps as are specified in the order, within such time as is so specified (or such further time as the court on application may allow)—(a) to prevent, control, abate or mitigate any harm to the environment caused by the commission of the offence, or(b) to make good any resulting environmental damage, or(c) to prevent the continuance or recurrence of the offence.
246 Orders for costs, expenses and compensation at time offence proved
(1) The court may, if it appears to the court that—(a) a public authority has incurred costs and expenses in connection with—(i) the prevention, control, abatement or mitigation of any harm to the environment caused by the commission of the offence, or(ii) making good any resulting environmental damage, ororder the offender to pay to the public authority or person the costs and expenses so incurred, or compensation for the loss or damage so suffered, as the case may be, in such amount as is fixed by the order.(b) a person (including a public authority) has, by reason of the commission of the offence, suffered loss of or damage to property or has incurred costs and expenses in preventing or mitigating, or in attempting to prevent or mitigate, any such loss or damage,(2) An order made by the Land and Environment Court under subsection (1) is enforceable as if it were an order made by the Court in Class 4 proceedings under the Land and Environment Court Act 1979.(3) The Local Court may not make an order under subsection (1) for the payment of an amount that exceeds the amount for which an order may be made by the court when exercising jurisdiction under the Civil Procedure Act 2005. An order made by the court is enforceable as if it were an order made by the court when exercising jurisdiction under that Act.s 246: Am 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [4]; 2007 No 94, Sch 3.
247 Recovery of costs, expenses and compensation after offence proved
(1) If, after the court finds the offence proved—(a) a public authority has incurred costs and expenses in connection with—(i) the prevention, control, abatement or mitigation of any harm to the environment caused by the commission of the offence, or(ii) making good any resulting environmental damage, orthe person or public authority may recover from the offender the costs and expenses incurred or the amount of the loss or damage in the Land and Environment Court.(b) a person (including a public authority) has, by reason of the commission of the offence, suffered loss of or damage to property or has incurred costs and expenses in preventing or mitigating, or in attempting to prevent or mitigate, any such loss or damage,(2) The amount of any such costs and expenses (but not the amount of any such loss or damage) may be recovered as a debt.
248 Orders regarding costs and expenses of investigation
(1) The court may, if it appears to the court that a regulatory authority has reasonably incurred costs and expenses during the investigation of the offence, order the offender to pay to the regulatory authority the costs and expenses so incurred in such amount as is fixed by the order.(2) An order made by the Land and Environment Court under subsection (1) is enforceable as if it were an order made by the Court in Class 4 proceedings under the Land and Environment Court Act 1979. An order made by the Local Court under subsection (1) is enforceable as if it were an order made by the court when exercising jurisdiction under the Civil Procedure Act 2005.(3) In this section—costs and expenses, in relation to the investigation of an offence, means the costs and expenses—(a) in taking any sample or conducting any inspection, test, measurement or analysis, orduring the investigation of the offence.(b) of transporting, storing or disposing of evidence,s 248: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [104]; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [4]; 2007 No 94, Sch 2.
249 Orders regarding monetary benefits
(1) The court may order the offender to pay, as part of the penalty for committing the offence, an additional penalty of an amount the court is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, represents the amount of any monetary benefits acquired by the offender, or accrued or accruing to the offender, as a result of the commission of the offence.(2) The amount of an additional penalty for an offence is not subject to any maximum amount of penalty provided elsewhere by or under this Act.(2A) For subsection (1), the prosecutor for the offence may give to the court a reasonable estimate of the amount of monetary benefits acquired by, or accrued or accruing to, a person as a result of the commission of the offence.(2B) The prosecutor may calculate the estimate—(a) in accordance with a protocol prescribed by the regulations, or(b) using another method, formula or approach the prosecutor considers appropriate.(3) In this section—the court does not include the Local Court.s 249: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [105]; 2007 No 94, Sch 2; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [8]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[62]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[57].
250 Additional orders
(1) Orders The court may do any one or more of the following—(a) order the offender to take specified action to publicise the offence (including the circumstances of the offence) and its environmental and other consequences and any other orders made against the person,(b) order the offender to take specified action to notify specified persons or classes of persons of the offence (including the circumstances of the offence) and its environmental and other consequences and of any orders made against the person (including, for example, the publication in an annual report or any other notice to shareholders of a company or the notification of persons aggrieved or affected by the offender’s conduct),(c) order the offender to carry out a specified project for the restoration or enhancement of the environment in a public place or for the public benefit,(d) order the offender to carry out a specified environmental audit of activities carried on by the offender,(e) order the offender to pay a specified amount to the Environmental Trust established under the Environmental Trust Act 1998, or a specified organisation, for the purposes of a specified project for the restoration or enhancement of the environment or for general environmental purposes,(f) order the offender to attend, or to cause an employee or employees or a contractor or contractors of the offender to attend, a training or other course specified by the court,(g) order the offender to establish, for employees or contractors of the offender, a training course of a kind specified by the court,(h) if the EPA is a party to the proceedings, order the offender to provide a financial assurance, of a form and amount specified by the court, to the EPA, if the court orders the offender to carry out a specified work or program for the restoration or enhancement of the environment.The Local Court is not authorised to make an order referred to in paragraph (c), (d), (e) or (h).(1A) Without limiting subsection (1) (c), the court may order the offender to carry out any social or community activity for the benefit of the community or persons that are adversely affected by the offence (a restorative justice activity) that the offender has agreed to carry out. However, the Local Court is not authorised to make an order under this subsection.(2) Machinery The court may, in an order under this section, fix a period for compliance and impose any other requirements the court considers necessary or expedient for enforcement of the order.(3) Failure to publicise or notify If the offender fails to comply with an order under subsection (1) (a) or (b), the prosecutor or a person authorised by the prosecutor may take action to carry out the order as far as may be practicable, including action to publicise or notify—(a) the original contravention, its environmental and other consequences, and any other penalties imposed on the offender, and(b) the failure to comply with the order.(4) Cost of publicising or notifying The reasonable cost of taking action referred to in subsection (3) is recoverable by the prosecutor or person taking the action, in a court of competent jurisdiction, as a debt from the offender.(5) Financial assurances Sections 302–307 apply to a financial assurance provided by an offender under an order made under this section in the same way as they apply to a financial assurance given by a holder of a licence under a condition of a licence under Part 9.4.s 250: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [106]–[109]; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [5]; 2007 No 94, Sch 3; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [9].
250A Prohibiting a person from holding a licence
(1) A court may, having regard to the matters mentioned in subsection (2) and other matters the court considers appropriate, make the following orders—(a) an order prohibiting the offender from either of the following for an indefinite period or a period specified in the order—(i) being involved in scheduled activities,(ii) applying for or holding a licence,(b) another order the court considers appropriate.(2) The matters to which a court must have regard are as follows—(a) the offender’s record in failing to comply with this Act or the regulations,(b) any previous conviction of the offender under environment protection legislation,(c) the circumstances surrounding the commission of the offence for which the offender is being sentenced.(3) A prohibition order cannot be sought in relation to a public utility that provides an essential service.(4) In this section—public utility that provides an essential service means the following—(a) the Crown,(b) the Sydney Water Corporation constituted by the Sydney Water Act 1994,(c) the Hunter Water Corporation constituted by the Hunter Water Act 1991,(d) a local authority,(e) another person or body prescribed by the regulations.s 250A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[58].
251 Offence
A person who fails to comply with an order under this Part (except an order under section 246, 247 or 248) is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—• in the case of a corporation—$120,000 for each day the offence continues, or• in the case of an individual—$60,000 for each day the offence continues.
Part 8.3A Civil proceedings to recover particular monetary benefits
pt 8.3A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[63].
251A Recovery of monetary benefits from related persons after offence proved
(1) This section applies if a court convicts a corporation of an offence against this Act or the regulations.(2) The prosecutor for the offence may apply to the court for an order (a monetary benefits order) that any of the following persons pay an amount representing the amount of monetary benefits acquired by the person, or accrued or accruing to the person, as a result of the commission of the offence by the corporation—(a) a person who is, or was, at the time of the commission of the offence, a director of the corporation,(b) a related entity,(c) a person who is, or was, at the time of the commission of the offence, a director of a related body corporate.(3) The court may make the monetary benefits order in relation to a person only if the court is satisfied, on the balance of probabilities, that the person acquired, accrued or will accrue the monetary benefits as a result of the commission of the offence by the corporation.(4) For subsection (2), the prosecutor for the offence may give to the court a reasonable estimate of the amount of monetary benefits acquired by, or accrued or accruing to, a person as a result of the commission of the offence.(4A) The prosecutor may calculate the estimate—(a) in accordance with a protocol prescribed by the regulations, or(b) using another method, formula or approach the prosecutor considers appropriate.(5) When making a monetary benefits order, the court may order that the person pay the amount—(a) into the Environment Protection Authority Fund or another fund the court considers appropriate, or(b) to an entity the court considers appropriate in the circumstances.(6) A monetary benefits order made by the court is enforceable as if it were an order made by the court in Class 4 proceedings under the Land and Environment Court Act 1979.(7) A reference in subsection (2) to a director of a corporation or related body corporate extends to a person involved in the management of the affairs of the corporation or related body corporate.(8) In this section—Environment Protection Authority Fund means the Environment Protection Authority Fund established under the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991, section 34A.prosecutor, for an offence, means the person who instituted the proceedings for the offence.the court does not include the Local Court.s 251A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[63]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[59] [60].
Part 8.4 Civil proceedings to remedy or restrain breaches of Act or harm to environment or enforce undertakings
pt 8.4, hdg: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [110].
252 Remedy or restraint of breaches of this Act or regulations
(1) Any person may bring proceedings in the Land and Environment Court for an order to remedy or restrain a breach of this Act or the regulations.(2) Any such proceedings may be brought whether or not proceedings have been instituted for an offence against this Act or the regulations.(3) Any such proceedings may be brought whether or not any right of the person has been or may be infringed by or as a consequence of the breach.(4) Any such proceedings may be brought by a person on the person’s own behalf or on behalf of another person (with their consent), or of a body corporate or unincorporate (with the consent of its committee or other controlling or governing body), having like or common interests in those proceedings.(5) Any person on whose behalf proceedings are brought is entitled to contribute to or provide for the payment of the legal costs and expenses incurred by the person bringing the proceedings.(6) If the Court is satisfied that a breach has been committed or that a breach will, unless restrained by order of the Court, be committed, it may make such orders as it thinks fit to remedy or restrain the breach.(7) Without limiting the powers of the Court under this section, an order under this section may suspend any environment protection licence.(8) In this section—breach includes a threatened or apprehended breach.
253 Restraint of breaches of an Act or statutory rules that harm the environment
(1) Any person may bring proceedings in the Land and Environment Court for an order to restrain a breach (or a threatened or apprehended breach) of any other Act, or any statutory rule under any other Act, if the breach (or the threatened or apprehended breach) is causing or is likely to cause harm to the environment.Note—Statutory rule is defined in the Interpretation Act 1987.(2) Any such proceedings may be brought whether or not any right of that person has been or may be infringed by or as a consequence of the breach (or the threatened or apprehended breach).(3) A person (other than the EPA or a member of the staff of the EPA) who brings any such proceedings is required to give a copy of the application to the EPA as soon as practicable after the application is made. The EPA is entitled to become a party to those proceedings.(4) If the Court is satisfied that a breach, or a threatened or apprehended breach, will, unless restrained by order of the Court, be committed or be likely to be committed, it may make such orders as it thinks fit to restrain the breach or other conduct of the person by whom the breach is committed or by whom the threatened or apprehended breach is likely to be committed.(5) Without limiting the powers of the Court under this section, an order under this section may suspend any environment protection licence.s 253: Am 2023 No 7, Sch 3.22.
253A Enforcement of undertakings
(1) The EPA may accept a written undertaking given by a person for the purposes of this section in connection with a matter in relation to which the EPA has a function under this Act.(1A) Without limiting subsection (1), an undertaking that the EPA may accept under that subsection includes an undertaking to carry out a restorative justice activity.(2) The person may withdraw or vary the undertaking at any time, but only with the consent in writing of the EPA. The consent of the EPA is required even if the undertaking purports to authorise withdrawal or variation of the undertaking without that consent.(3) The EPA may apply to the Land and Environment Court for an order under subsection (4) if the EPA considers that the person who gave the undertaking has breached any of its terms.(4) The Court may make all or any of the following orders if it is satisfied that the person has breached a term of the undertaking—(a) an order directing the person to comply with that term of the undertaking,(b) an order directing the person to pay to the State an amount not exceeding the amount of any financial benefit that the person has obtained directly or indirectly and that is reasonably attributable to the breach,(c) any order that the Court thinks appropriate directing the person to compensate any other person who has suffered loss or damage as a result of the breach,(d) an order suspending or revoking any environment protection licence held by the person,(e) an order requiring the person to prevent, control, abate or mitigate any actual or likely harm to the environment caused by the breach,(f) an order requiring the person to make good any actual or likely harm to the environment caused by the breach,(g) any other order the Court considers appropriate.s 253A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [111]. Am 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [10].
253B Prohibition orders
(1) This section applies if the EPA considers a person (the relevant person)—(a) is likely to engage again, or continue to engage, in unlawful conduct, or(b) is not a fit and proper person to hold, or continue to hold, an environment protection licence.(2) The EPA may apply to the Land and Environment Court for an order under this section.(3) The relevant person cannot apply for an environment protection licence during the period—(a) starting when the application is made to the Land and Environment Court, and(b) ending when the Court makes a decision about whether or not to make an order under this section.(4) The Land and Environment Court may make—(a) an order prohibiting the relevant person from either of the following for an indefinite period or a period specified in the order—(i) being involved in scheduled activities,(ii) applying for or holding a licence, or(b) another order the Court considers appropriate.(5) An order under this section cannot be sought in relation to a public utility that provides an essential service.(6) In this section—public utility that provides an essential service means the following—(a) the Crown,(b) the Sydney Water Corporation constituted by the Sydney Water Act 1994,(c) the Hunter Water Corporation constituted by the Hunter Water Act 1991,(d) a local authority,(e) another person or body prescribed by the regulations.s 253B: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[61].
Part 8.5 Evidentiary provisions
254 Definitions
In this Part—designated officer means an officer of the EPA designated in writing by the CEO for the purposes of this Part.information relating to an offence includes an application referred to in section 41 of the Land and Environment Court Act 1979.instrument includes a notice, order or written direction.s 254: Am 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [15]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[64].
255 Evidence of threshold tests for scheduled activities
(1) In a case where there is a numerical or other threshold to be met for the purposes of determining whether activities are scheduled activities—(a) the question of whether the threshold was met is not relevant for the purposes of any proceedings under this Act, once it is established that an environment protection licence was in force in respect of the activities at the relevant time, and(b) it is immaterial for the purposes of those proceedings that the licence was not at that or any other time, or ever, needed.(2) This section does not apply to licences that are only issued to regulate water pollution resulting from non-scheduled activities.
256 Onus of proof of certain matters
(1) In any proceedings under this Act, the onus of proving that a person had a reasonable excuse or lawful excuse (as referred to in any provision of this Act or the regulations) lies with the defendant.(2) In any proceedings for an offence under Part 5.6AA or 5.6A, the onus of proving an exception under section 144AF(1)–(3), 145 (3)–(5), 146A (3), 146B (3) or 146E (4) lies with the defendant, but nothing in this subsection affects the construction or operation of any other provision of this Act.s 256: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [15]; 2000 No 82, Sch 1 [2]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[62] [63].
257 Occupier of premises responsible for pollution from premises
(1) In any proceedings under this Act, the occupier of premises at or from which any pollution occurs is taken to have caused the pollution, unless it is established that—(a) the pollution was caused by another person, and(b) the other person was not associated with the occupier at the time the pollution occurred, and(c) the occupier took all reasonable steps to prevent the pollution.A person is associated with the occupier for the purposes of paragraph (b) (but without limiting any other circumstances of association) if the person is an employee, agent, licensee, contractor or sub-contractor of the occupier.(2) Subsection (1) does not prevent proceedings being taken under this Act against the person who actually caused the pollution.s 257: Am 1998 No 54, Sch 1.14 [2].
258 Evidence relating to occupier of premises
(1) In any proceedings under this Act, no proof is required (until evidence is given to the contrary) of the fact that a person is, or at any relevant time was, the occupier of any premises to which the proceedings relate.(2) In any proceedings under this Act, the holder of a licence under this Act in respect of any premises at a particular time or period is taken to be the occupier of the premises at that time or during that period.
259 Proof of certain appointments not required
In any proceedings under this Act no proof is required (until evidence is given to the contrary) of—(a) the appointment of the Chairperson, the CEO or any member of the staff of the EPA, or(b) the appointment of the general manager or any officer or employee of a local authority, or(c) the appointment of the marine authority.s 259: Am 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [16]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[65].
260 Documentary evidence generally
Any instrument purporting—(a) to be an instrument issued, made or given for the purposes of this Act, andis admissible in any proceedings under this Act and (in the absence of evidence to the contrary) is to be taken to be such an instrument and to have been so signed.(b) to have been signed by the person authorised to issue, make or give the instrument, or by another person acting as delegate or on behalf of the person,
261 Certificate evidence of certain matters
(1) A document signed by the CEO or a designated officer and certifying any one or more of the matters specified in subsection (2) is admissible in any proceedings under this Act or the regulations and is prima facie evidence of the matters so certified.(2) The matters referred to in subsection (1) are as follows—(a) that an instrument, a copy of which is set out in or annexed to the document, being an instrument purporting—(i) to be issued, made or given for the purposes of this Act or the regulations, andwas issued, made or given on a specified day,(ii) to have been signed by the person authorised to issue, make or give the instrument, or by another person acting as delegate or on behalf of the person,(a1) that notice of a matter under this Act or the regulations was given on the EPA’s website and the date and form of the notice,(b) that a person was or was not, at a specified time or during a specified period, the holder of a specified licence or a licence of a specified kind,(b1) that specified premises were or were not, at a specified time or during a specified period, the subject of a specified licence or a licence of a specified kind,(c) that a licence was or was not, at a specified time or during a specified period, subject to specified conditions,(d) that a licence was, at a specified time, revoked or suspended for a specified period or was revoked or suspended subject to specified conditions,(e) that, at a specified time, the surrender of a licence was approved or was approved subject to specified conditions,(f) that a condition was, at a specified time, revoked or varied in a specified manner or that a new condition was, at a specified time, attached to a licence or to the revocation, suspension or surrender of a licence,(g) that a person was or was not, at a specified time or during a specified period, an authorised officer or enforcement officer,(h) that a person was or was not, at a specified time or during a specified period, a member of staff of the EPA, the Department of Health, the marine authority or a local authority,(i) that an exemption was or was not given under this Act or the regulations in relation to any specified matter,(j) that any such exemption was or was not, at a specified time or during a specified period, in force or subject to specified conditions,(k) that any exemption was or was not, or that any such conditions were or were not, varied or revoked at a specified time,(l) that any consent necessary for bringing proceedings for an offence arising under this Act or a regulation under this Act has been duly given,(m) that an order, a copy of which is set out in or annexed to the certificate, was for the purposes of section 133 or 162 published in a specified manner and on a specified day,(n) that premises are within an area to which an order under section 133 applies, a copy of which order is set out in or annexed to the certificate,(o) that a register kept under this Act shows that specified premises were, at a specified time or during a specified period, within a specified classification referred to in regulations under this Act,(p) that a person was or was not appointed by the EPA as an analyst under this Act during a specified period,(q) that information required to be furnished to a regulatory authority or authorised officer pursuant to this Act or the regulations was or was not received,(r) that a document is a copy of part of, or an extract from, a register kept under this Act,(s) that an amount is payable under this Act or the regulations by a specified person and has not been paid,(t) that a person was served with a notice under this Act or the regulations,(u) that a specified function of the EPA, Chairperson or CEO was delegated to a specified person under section 21 of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991 during a specified period,(v) that, at a specified time, a chemical was or was not the subject of a chemical control order,(w) that, at a specified time, a chemical control order was or was not subject to specified conditions,(x) that, at a specified time, a chemical was or was not the subject of a chemical use notice,(y) that, at a specified time, an industrial chemical was or was not listed in the NSW IChEMS register,(z) that, at a specified time, a risk management measure was or was not specified in the NSW IChEMS register for an industrial chemical.(3) For the purposes of a certificate referred to in subsection (2) (g) in respect of an authorised officer or enforcement officer, a designated officer who may give the certificate includes the appropriate regulatory authority that appointed the authorised officer or enforcement officer or an officer of that authority who is appointed by that authority for the purposes of this subsection.s 261: Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [29] [30]; 2002 No 53, Sch 1.22 [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [112]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [17] [18]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[66] [67]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[10]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[64] [65].
262 Evidence of analysts
(1) The EPA may, by written instrument, appoint appropriately qualified persons to be analysts for this Act.(2) A certificate of an analyst prepared under this section for a regulatory authority stating the results of an analysis or examination is admissible in evidence in proceedings under this Act as evidence of—(a) the facts stated in the certificate, and(b) the correctness of the result of the analysis or examination.(3) A certificate of an analyst prepared under this section for a regulatory authority stating that a container containing a sample was received at a specified laboratory and that the container was sealed by an authorised officer or another person is admissible in proceedings under this Act as evidence—(a) of the facts stated in the certificate, and(b) the sample was the same sample as the sample obtained by the authorised officer or other person, and(c) the sample had not been tampered with since the container was sealed by the authorised officer or other person.(4) A document purporting to be a certificate prepared under this section is, unless the contrary is proved, taken to be a certificate under this section.s 262: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [113]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[68]. Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[66].
262A Evidence from photographs and other images
(1) This section applies to a photographic or other image of an area of land formed from data captured by a device carried by an aircraft, satellite or other craft, and information recorded on the image, that either of the following certifies as an approved image—(a) the CEO of the EPA,(b) an officer of the EPA designated by the CEO of the EPA.(2) An approved image is admissible in proceedings under this Act and, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, is evidence of the following—(a) the matter depicted on the image,(b) the information recorded on the image relating to the location or boundaries of the land,(c) the time when, or period during which, the image was taken,(d) other matters prescribed by the regulations.(3) In proceedings in which an approved image is admitted in evidence—(a) the image is presumed, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, to be orthorectified, and(b) evidence is not required, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, of the accuracy of any process used to—(i) orthorectify the image, or(ii) determine the boundaries of land recorded in the image.s 262A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[66].
Part 8.6 Noise—special provisions
Division 1 Noise control notices—regulatory authorities
263 Definition of “appropriate regulatory authority”
For the purposes of this Division, the marine authority is the in relation to—(a) vessels in navigable waters, and(b) premises used in connection with vessels and situated adjacent to, or partly or wholly over, navigable waters.
264 Noise control notices relating to premises
(1) This section applies to—(a) the person who is the occupier of any premises, or(b) the person who carries on or proposes to carry on an activity at any premises or who uses or operates or proposes to use or operate an article at any premises.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may, by notice in writing given to such a person, prohibit the person from causing, permitting or allowing—(a) any specified activity to be carried on at the premises, oror both, in such a manner as to cause the emission from the premises at all times or on specified days, or between specified times on all days or on specified days, of noise that, when measured at any specified point (whether within or outside the premises), is in excess of a specified level.(b) any specified article to be used or operated at the premises,(3) If, in a noise control notice, there is no reference to the times or days during or on which the prohibition imposed by the notice is to operate, the prohibition operates at all times.(4) Nothing in this section affects the power under this Act to attach conditions to an environment protection licence.s 264: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [114].
265 Offence to contravene noise control notice
(1) A person who contravenes a noise control notice is guilty of an offence.(2) A person is not guilty of an offence unless it is established that the alleged offence resulted in the emission, from the premises to which the alleged offence relates, of noise that was able to be detected or perceived outside those premises without the aid of an instrument, machine or device.Maximum penalty—• in the case of a corporation—$60,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $6,000 for each day the offence continues, or• in the case of an individual—$30,000 and, in the case of a continuing offence, a further penalty of $600 for each day the offence continues.
266 Revocation or variation of noise control notices
A noise control notice may be revoked or varied by the appropriate regulatory authority by a further notice under this Division.
267 Commencement of operation of noise control notices
(1) A noise control notice operates from the day the notice is given or from such later day as the notice specifies.(2) If an appeal is made against a noise control notice and the Land and Environment Court directs that the notice is stayed, the notice does not operate until the stay ceases to have effect or the Land and Environment Court confirms the notice or the appeal is withdrawn, whichever first occurs.s 267: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [115].
267A Fee
(1) The purpose of this section is to enable a regulatory authority to recover the administrative costs of preparing and giving noise control notices.(2) A person who is given a noise control notice by a regulatory authority must within 30 days pay the prescribed fee to the authority.(3) The regulatory authority may—(a) extend the time for payment of the fee on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies, or(b) waive payment of the whole or any part of the fee on the authority’s initiative or on the application of a person to whom subsection (2) applies.(4) The fee is not payable during the currency of an appeal against the noise control notice.(5) A fee is not payable on the variation or revocation of a noise control notice.(6) If the decision of the Court on an appeal does not invalidate the noise control notice, the fee is payable within 30 days of the decision.(7) A person who does not pay the fee within the time provided under this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty (subsection (7)): 200 penalty units.s 267A: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [116].
267B Compliance costs
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority that gives a noise control notice to a person may, by notice in writing (in this section referred to as a compliance cost notice), require the person to pay all or any reasonable costs incurred by the authority in connection with—(a) monitoring action under the notice, and(b) ensuring that the notice is complied with, and(c) any other associated matters.(2) A regulatory authority may recover any unpaid amounts specified in a compliance cost notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(3) If the person given a compliance cost notice complies with the notice but was not the person who caused the noise, the cost of complying with the notice may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from the person who caused the noise.s 267B: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [116].
Division 2 Noise abatement orders—Local Court
268 Issue of noise abatement orders
(1) The occupier of any premises may apply to the Local Court for an order under this section.(2) The application is to be commenced by the issue of an application notice that alleges that the occupier’s occupation of premises is affected by offensive noise.(3) The respondent to the application may be a person alleged to be making or contributing to the noise or the occupier of premises from which the noise is alleged to be emitted.(4) If the Local Court is satisfied (on the balance of probabilities) that the alleged offensive noise exists, or that although abated it is likely to recur on the same premises, the Local Court may make either or both of the following orders—(a) an order directing the respondent to abate the offensive noise within the time specified in the order,(b) an order directing the respondent to prevent a recurrence of the offensive noise.(5) Part 4 of the Local Court Act 2007 applies to an application under this section.s 268: Am 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [6]–[8]. Subst 2002 No 99, Sch 1.7. Am 2007 No 94, Schs 1.85 [1], 2.
269 Contravention of noise abatement order
A person who contravenes a noise abatement order is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—30 penalty units.
270 Restrictions on noise abatement orders
(1) A noise abatement order has no force in so far as it is directed to—(a) the State or a person acting on behalf of the State, or(b) a public authority or a person in the capacity of a member, officer or employee of a public authority, or(c) a person or body prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.(2) A noise abatement order has no force in so far as it would have the result of affecting—(a) any activity carried on by or for the State or a public authority, or(a1) any activity carried on by an authorised network operator (within the meaning of the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015), or(b) any scheduled activity, or any other activity or work that is the subject of an environment protection licence, or(c) any activity of a class or description prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.s 270: Am 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [5].
271 Commencement of operation of noise abatement order
(1) A noise abatement order operates from the day the order is made or from such later day as the order specifies.(2) If an appeal is made against a noise abatement order and the Land and Environment Court directs that the order is stayed, the order does not operate until the stay ceases to have effect or the Land and Environment Court confirms the order or the appeal is withdrawn, whichever first occurs.s 271: Subst 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [117].
272 Revocation or variation of noise abatement orders
A noise abatement order may be revoked or varied by the Local Court.s 272: Am 2007 No 94, Sch 2.
273 Costs
The Local Court may award costs against any party in proceedings under this Division.s 273: Am 2007 No 94, Sch 3.
274 (Repealed)
s 274: Rep 2007 No 94, Sch 1.85 [2].
Division 3 Noise abatement directions—police and other authorised persons
275 Definition of “authorised person”
In this Division—means—(a) in any case—an authorised officer or a police officer, or(b) in relation to vessels in navigable waters—an officer or employee of the marine authority authorised by the marine authority for the purposes of this Division.
276 Issue of noise abatement directions
If it appears to an authorised person that offensive noise is being, or has at any time within the past 7 days been, emitted from any premises, the authorised person may—(a) direct the person whom the authorised person believes to be the occupier of the premises to cause the emission of the offensive noise to cease, oror both.(b) direct any person whom the authorised person believes to be making or contributing to the making of the noise to cease making or contributing to the making of offensive noise,
277 Contravention of noise abatement directions
(1) A person to whom a noise abatement direction has been given under section 276 (a) must not, without reasonable excuse, while the direction remains in force—(a) fail to cause the emission of the offensive noise from the premises to cease promptly, or(b) at any time within 28 days following the time at which the direction was given (or such shorter period as is specified in the direction), cause or permit offensive noise to be emitted from the premises.(2) A person to whom a noise abatement direction has been given under section 276 (b) must not, without reasonable excuse, while the direction remains in force—(a) fail to promptly cease making or contributing to the making of the offensive noise, or(b) at any time within 28 days following the time at which the direction was given (or such shorter period as is specified in the direction), make or contribute to the making of offensive noise that is emitted from the premises.(3) A noise abatement direction does not prevent the emission of noise that is not offensive noise.(4) A person who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—30 penalty units.
278 Restrictions on noise abatement directions
(1) A noise abatement direction (other than a direction given by an authorised officer appointed by the EPA) has no force in so far as it is directed to—(a) the State or a person acting on behalf of the State, or(b) a public authority or a person in the capacity of a member, officer or employee of a public authority, or(c) a person or body prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.(2) A noise abatement direction (other than a direction given by an authorised officer appointed by the EPA) has no force in so far as it would have the result of affecting—(a) any activity carried on by or for the State or a public authority, or(a1) any activity carried on by an authorised network operator (within the meaning of the Electricity Network Assets (Authorised Transactions) Act 2015), or(b) any scheduled activity, or any other activity or work that is the subject of an environment protection licence, or(c) any activity of a class or description prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph.s 278: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [118]; 2015 No 5, Sch 8.21 [6].
279 Revocation of noise abatement directions
A noise abatement direction may be revoked by the person who gave (or could have given) the direction or by a person of a class prescribed by the regulations.
Division 4 Police powers regarding noise
280 Powers of entry by police by warrant
(1) Complaint for and issue of warrant On complaint being made by a police officer to a Magistrate that—(a) the police officer has been denied entry to any specified premises, andthe Magistrate may, if satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for that belief, by warrant, authorise and require the police officer to enter the premises and to give a noise abatement direction or investigate whether a noise abatement direction has been contravened.(b) the police officer believes that—(i) offensive noise is being emitted from the premises or offensive noise has, within the past 7 days, been emitted from the premises, and(ii) it is necessary for a police officer to enter the premises immediately in order to give a noise abatement direction in relation to offensive noise emitted from the premises or to investigate whether a noise abatement direction has been contravened,(2) Manner of making complaint The complaint may be made by a police officer to the Magistrate in person or by telephone and may be made directly to the Magistrate or, where in all the circumstances it is impracticable to make the complaint directly, by causing the complaint to be transmitted by another police officer by either of those means.(3) Indirect complaint The fact that the complaint is made to the Magistrate by a police officer who causes the complaint to be transmitted by another police officer to the Magistrate does not, if the Magistrate is of the opinion that it is in all the circumstances impracticable to communicate directly with the police officer making the complaint, prevent the Magistrate being satisfied as to the matters specified in subsection (1).(4) How warrant granted The Magistrate grants the warrant by stating the terms of the warrant.(5) Magistrate to make record The Magistrate who grants the warrant is required to cause a record to be made in writing in the prescribed form of—(a) the name of the police officer who was the complainant, and(b) where the complaint was transmitted by a police officer on behalf of the complainant—the name of the police officer who transmitted the complaint, and(c) the details of the complaint, including the name of any person who is alleged to have informed the police as to the offensive noise the subject of the warrant and the grounds relied on by the Magistrate to grant the warrant, and(d) the terms of the warrant (which must include the address of the premises the subject of the warrant), and(e) the date and time the warrant was granted.(6) Execution of warrant The warrant is to be executed as soon as practicable after it is granted, but not later than 24 hours after it is granted, and may be executed by day or night.(7) Use of reasonable force A police officer may use reasonable force (whether by breaking open doors or otherwise) for the purpose of entering premises in executing the warrant.(8) Use of assistants A police officer may execute the warrant with the aid of such assistants as the police officer considers appropriate.(9) Warrant not invalidated by minor defects The warrant is not invalidated by any defect, other than a defect that affects the substance of the warrant in a material particular.(10) Police officer to make record The police officer who was the complainant is required to make a record in triplicate in the prescribed form containing the following particulars—(a) the address of the premises the subject of the warrant,(b) the name of the Magistrate who granted the warrant,(c) the name of the police officer,(d) the time at which the warrant was granted.(11) How police record to be dealt with The copies of the record made under subsection (10) are to be dealt with as follows—(a) the first copy is, on entry to the premises the subject of the warrant or as soon as practicable afterwards, if a person who appears to reside at the premises and to be of or above the age of 18 years is present, to be furnished to such a person together with a statement in the prescribed form and containing a summary of the nature of the warrant and the powers given by the warrant,(b) the second and third copies are to be endorsed with—(i) the name of the person (if any) who informed the police as to the offensive noise the subject of the warrant, and(ii) a notation as to whether any premises were entered under the warrant and, if so, the time of entry and the action taken at the premises,(c) the second copy is to be forwarded to the Director-General of the Attorney General’s Department or any other officer designated by that Director-General,(d) the third copy is to be retained by the police officer authorised to enter the premises under the warrant, to be dealt with in such manner as may be prescribed by the regulations.(12) Definitions In this section—Magistrate includes any other person who is an within the meaning of the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002.telephone includes a radio or another communication device.s 280: Am 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [9]; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [6].
281 Powers of police after entry by warrant
(1) Limited powers If a police officer enters any premises under a warrant granted under section 280 for the purpose of giving a noise abatement direction or investigating whether a noise abatement direction has been contravened, the police officer may—(a) take only such action at the premises as is reasonably necessary—(i) to give the noise abatement direction or investigate whether such an offence has been committed, and(ii) to exercise any power under subsection (2) or any lawful power to arrest a person, and(b) remain at the premises only as long as is reasonably necessary to take that action.(2) Giving of names and addresses may be required If a police officer believes on reasonable grounds that offensive noise is being emitted from any premises or offensive noise has, within the past 7 days, been emitted from any premises, the police officer may require any person—(a) whom the police officer believes on reasonable grounds to be the occupier of the premises or to be, or to have been, causing or contributing to the emission of the offensive noise, andto furnish the police officer with that person’s name and address and with the name and address of the occupier of the premises if that person is not the occupier.(b) to whom the police officer has given an oral or written warning of that person’s obligation to furnish the information under this Act,(3) Offences A person—(a) who refuses or fails to comply with a requirement under subsection (2), oris guilty of an offence.(b) who, in purported compliance with a requirement under subsection (2), furnishes information that the person knows is false or misleading in a material particular,Maximum penalty—(a) for an offence against paragraph (a)—(i) for a corporation—$20,000, or(ii) for an individual—$10,000, and(b) for an offence against paragraph (b)—(i) for a corporation—$40,000, or(ii) for an individual—$20,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both.(4) Defence A person is not guilty of an offence arising under subsection (3) (a) if the person proves that, in so far as the requirement was not complied with, the person was not capable of complying with it.s 281: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[69].
282 Police powers to seize equipment
(1) This section applies if a noise abatement direction is in force and the person to whom the direction is given is contravening the direction.(2) A police officer may seize or secure any equipment that is being used to contravene the direction. The police officer may not do so unless the person in charge of the equipment has been warned that the continued use of the equipment may lead to its seizure.(3) If any such equipment is seized, the police officer is to issue the person from whom it is seized with a receipt that identifies the equipment, states the time and date of seizure, identifies the police officer seizing the equipment and notifies the procedure for the return of the equipment.(4) Unless it is returned or released earlier at the discretion of a police officer, any equipment that is seized or secured under this section must be returned or released within 28 days.(5) A person is not entitled to any compensation for damage caused to equipment that is seized or secured under this section if the damage occurred as a result of the police officer being obstructed or hindered in seizing or securing the equipment.
283 Other police powers not affected
Nothing in this Division limits any other power that a police officer may have under this or any other Act or at common law to enter or remain at any premises.
Chapter 9 Miscellaneous
Part 9.1 Exemptions
284 Exemptions by EPA in emergencies and other situations
(1) Exemptions The EPA may exempt any person or class of persons from any specified provision or provisions of this Act or the regulations, in the circumstances referred to in subsection (2).(2) Situations where exemptions may be granted An exemption may be granted in—(a) an emergency (including, for example, fires, floods and fuel shortages), or(b) circumstances where—(i) the EPA is satisfied that it is not practicable to comply with the relevant provision or provisions, by implementing operational changes to plant or practices, and(ii) the EPA is satisfied that non-compliance with the provision or provisions will not have any significant adverse effect on public health, property or the environment, and(iii) the Board of the EPA approves the granting of the exemption, or(c) circumstances prescribed by the regulations.(3) Applications If the regulations prescribe the manner in which an exemption is to be applied for, the exemption must be applied for in that manner.(4) Publication and commencement An exemption—(a) is effected by order made by the EPA and published in the Gazette, and(b) takes effect from the date the order is published in the Gazette or a later date specified in the order, and(c) has effect for the period specified in the order.(5) Emergency exemption In the case of an exemption granted in an emergency, the order may take effect when it is made or on a later date specified in the order. The order is to be published in the Gazette as soon as practicable after it is made.(6) Conditions An exemption may be unconditional or may be subject to conditions specified in the order.(7) Revocation, variation or renewal An exemption may be revoked, varied or renewed by a further order made and published in accordance with this section.(8) Term An exemption may not be granted or renewed so as to have effect for a total period exceeding 5 years. A further exemption granted within 5 years after the expiry of an earlier exemption (being a further exemption that is the same in substance as the earlier exemption) is to be treated as a renewed exemption for the purposes of this subsection.(9) Reasons for exemption If an exemption is granted, any person may make a written request to the EPA for the reasons for the exemption and the EPA is to provide a written statement of the reasons to the person. The regulations may make provision with respect to any such statement of reasons, including—(a) the time within which a request for reasons must be made or within which the statement of reasons must be provided, and(b) the matters to be set out in a statement of reasons, and(c) the cases in which a statement of reasons is not required to be provided.s 284: Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[67].
285 Exemption for fire brigades and other emergency services
(1) A person is not guilty of an offence against this Act or the regulations for any act or omission if it was done or omitted in good faith as a member of a fire brigade, a rural fire brigade, the State Emergency Service or other accredited rescue unit.(2) This section has effect despite anything in this Act.(3) In this section—accredited rescue unit has the same meaning as it has in the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989.rural fire brigade has the same meaning as it has in the Rural Fires Act 1997.s 285: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [119]–[121].
286 Exemptions by regulation
(1) The regulations may exempt, or provide for the exemption of—(a) any person or class of persons, or(b) any premises or class of premises, or(c) any area or class of areas, or(d) any activity or class of activities, orfrom any specified provision or provisions of this Act or the regulations, in such circumstances (if any) and subject to such conditions (if any) as may be specified or referred to in the regulations.(e) any other matter or thing or class of matters or things,(2) The power to make regulations under this section is not limited by section 284.
286A Offence regarding resource recovery orders
(1) The EPA may, by order, impose requirements on a specified person, or a specified class of persons, in relation to the supply by the person, or persons in the specified class, of waste to which a resource recovery exemption applies.(2) A person to whom an order under subsection (1) applies must comply with the requirements imposed by the order on—(a) the person, or(b) the class of persons to which the person belongs.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$4,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$2,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $240,000 for each day the offence continues, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$1,000,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000 and, for a continuing offence, a further penalty of $120,000 for each day the offence continues.(3) The regulations may provide for further matters in relation to orders under subsection (1), including—(a) specifying the classes of waste and supply of waste in relation to which orders may be made, and(b) how notice of an order is given, and(c) when an order takes effect, and(d) the variation and revocation of orders.s 286A: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[68].
286B Records relating to resource recovery exemptions and orders
(1) A person who is required by a resource recovery exemption or resource recovery order to record information must—(a) make or keep records in accordance with the exemption or order, and(b) ensure the record is kept for at least 6 years after the record is made, and(c) make the record available for inspection and copying by an authorised officer if requested.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence relates to asbestos waste—$1,000,000, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence relates to asbestos waste—$500,000, or(ii) otherwise—$250,000.(2) The regulations may provide for additional matters in relation to records under exemptions under section 286 and resource recovery orders, including matters relating to the effect of a variation or revocation of an exemption or order on a requirement referred to in subsection (1).(3) Nothing in this section limits—(a) the conditions that may be imposed on a resource recovery exemption, or(b) the requirements that may be imposed by a resource recovery order.s 286B: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[68].
286C Information or records under resource recovery exemption or order
(1) A person who is required under a resource recovery exemption or resource recovery order to give another person information or records relating to waste to which the exemption or order relates must give the information or records to the other person—(a) within the time specified in the exemption or order, or(b) on the request of the other person—within 7 days after the request is made or the shorter period specified in the exemption or order.Note—Part 7.3 confers powers on the EPA to require a person to give information to the EPA.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$1,000,000, or(ii) otherwise—$500,000, or(b) for an individual—(i) if the offence involves asbestos waste—$500,000, or(ii) otherwise—$250,000.(2) The regulations may provide for additional matters in relation to information or records under exemptions under section 286 and resource recovery orders, including matters relating to the effect of a variation or revocation of an exemption or order on a requirement referred to in subsection (1).(3) Nothing in this section limits—(a) the conditions that may be imposed on a resource recovery exemption, or(b) the requirements that may be imposed by a resource recovery order.s 286C: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[68].
Part 9.2 Appeals
287 Appeals regarding licence applications and licences
(1) The following persons aggrieved by a decision of the appropriate regulatory authority about a licence or licence application may, within the prescribed period, appeal the decision to the Land and Environment Court—(a) for a licence—a person who has held the licence,(b) for a licence application—the applicant.(1A) The lodging of an appeal—(a) in the case of an appeal against a decision to suspend or revoke a licence (whether with or without conditions)—does not operate to stay the decision appealed against, and(b) in the case of an appeal against any other decision—does not, except to the extent that the Land and Environment Court otherwise directs in relation to the appeal, operate to stay the decision appealed against.(1B) For the avoidance of doubt, the Land and Environment Court has no jurisdiction to make an order staying a decision referred to in subsection (1A) (a).(2) An appeal under this section extends to a decision to refuse the licence application, to impose conditions on the issue of a licence, to vary the conditions of a licence, to revoke or suspend a licence, to refuse to approve the surrender of a licence, to impose conditions on a revocation, suspension or surrender of a licence or to attach any new conditions to, or to vary any conditions of, a suspension, revocation or surrender of a licence.Note—The Dictionary defines licence application to mean an application for the issue, transfer or variation of a licence or for approval of the surrender of a licence.(3) For the purposes of this section, a licence application is taken to have been refused—(a) in the case of an application for a variation of a licence about which the appropriate regulatory authority is required to invite and consider public submissions under section 58 (6), if the application is not granted within 90 days after it is duly made, or(b) in the case of an application for a licence relating to controlled development, if the application is not granted within 60 days after it is duly made or within 30 days after development consent is granted for the controlled development, whichever is the later, or(c) in any other case, if the application is not granted within 60 days after it is duly made.(4) The period commencing when an applicant is duly required under this Act to provide additional information within a specified period for the purposes of determining a licence application and ending when that information is provided or the specified period ends (whichever occurs first) is not to be taken into account in determining whether a licence application is taken to have been refused.(5) Nothing in this section prevents the determination of a licence application under this Act after the end of a period referred to in subsection (3).(6) There is no appeal under this section against a condition that is imposed on a licence, or varied or revoked, by the regulations.(7) In this section—prescribed period, for a person, means—(a) the period prescribed by the regulations, or(b) if no period is prescribed—(i) 21 days after the person is given notice of the decision of the appropriate regulatory authority, or(ii) 21 days after the person’s licence application is taken to have been refused under subsection (3).Note—Section 4.52 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 provides that, in the case of integrated development under that Act involving a licence application, the Court is under the same obligation as the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to the issue of the licence in accordance with the previous general terms of any approval by that authority.s 287: Am 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [12] [13]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [31] [32]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [122]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [11]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[70]; 2023 No 7, Sch 1.19[3] [4].
288 Appeals regarding notices under section 86 relating to work at premises
(1) A person given a notice under section 86 may, within 21 days (or such other period as is prescribed instead by the regulations) after being given the notice, appeal to the Land and Environment Court against the notice.(2) The lodging of an appeal does not, except to the extent that the Land and Environment Court otherwise directs in relation to the appeal, operate to stay the notice appealed against.s 288: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [123].
289 Appeals against prevention notices
(1) A person served with a prevention notice may, within 21 days (or such other period as is prescribed instead by the regulations) after being served with the notice, appeal to the Land and Environment Court against the notice.(1A) The lodging of an appeal does not, except to the extent that the Land and Environment Court otherwise directs in relation to the appeal, operate to stay the notice appealed against.(2) There is no appeal against a decision of an appropriate regulatory authority to extend the time for complying with a prevention notice.(3) For the purposes of this section, a prevention notice is a notice under Part 4.3, and includes a notice that varies such a prevention notice.s 289: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [124].
289A Appeals regarding notices under section 144AC relating to use of approved GPS tracking devices
(1) A person given a notice under section 144AC may, within 21 days (or such other period as is prescribed instead by the regulations) after being given the notice, appeal to the Land and Environment Court against the notice.(2) The lodging of an appeal does not, except to the extent that the Land and Environment Court otherwise directs in relation to the appeal, operate to stay the notice appealed against.s 289A: Ins 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [12].
290 Appeals regarding noise
(1) Any person—(a) given a noise control notice, ormay appeal to the Land and Environment Court against the notice or order within 21 days (or such other period as is prescribed instead by the regulations) after service of the notice or the making of the order.(b) against whom a noise abatement order is made,(1A) The lodging of an appeal does not, except to the extent that the Land and Environment Court otherwise directs in relation to the appeal, operate to stay the notice or order appealed against.(2) Parts 2, 3 and 5 of the Crimes (Appeal and Review) Act 2001 (as applied by section 70 of the Local Court Act 2007) do not apply to a noise abatement order.s 290: Am 1998 No 137, Sch 2.21; 2001 No 121, Sch 2.174 [10]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [125]; 2007 No 94, Sch 1.85 [3]; 2015 No 15, Sch 2.42.
291 Appeals regarding decisions under the regulations
The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the making of appeals to the Land and Environment Court or the Local Court against a decision made under the regulations.s 291: Am 2007 No 94, Sch 2.
292 Determination of appeals
(1) A court to which an appeal is made under this Act may hear and determine the appeal.(2) The decision of the court on an appeal under this Act is final and binding on the appellant and the person or body whose decision or notice is the subject of the appeal.
Part 9.3 Economic measures
293 Schemes for economic measures
(1) The EPA may develop and implement schemes involving economic measures as a means of achieving cost-effective environmental regulation or environment protection.(2) The EPA may approve of the development and implementation of such a scheme by other regulatory authorities.(3) Without limiting the above, such a scheme may involve measures that provide an economic incentive for avoiding or minimising harm to the environment when carrying out an activity.(4) An example of such a scheme is a tradeable emission scheme, as referred to in Part 9.3A, or a green offset scheme, as referred to in Part 9.3B.(5), (6) (Repealed)s 293: Am 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [2] [3]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [126].
293A Alteration, suspension or termination of a scheme
(1) The EPA may alter, suspend or terminate a scheme referred to in section 293 or any part of such a scheme.(2) Before taking any such action, the EPA must—(a) cause notice of its intention to do so to be published in the Gazette and in such other manner as the EPA is satisfied is likely to bring the notice to the attention of the members of the public generally or in the locality in which the scheme operates, and(b) in that notice, invite the public to make submissions on the proposed alteration, suspension or termination, and(c) allow a period of not less than 21 days for the receipt of those submissions.(3) The EPA must take into account any submission received within that period in deciding whether to proceed with the alteration, suspension or termination.(4) The EPA may alter the scheme or part of the scheme without complying with subsections (2) and (3) if it considers that—(a) the alteration is not significant, or(b) the alteration is necessary because of an emergency.(5) The EPA may suspend the scheme or part of the scheme without complying with subsections (2) and (3) if it considers that—(a) the suspension is required urgently in order to protect the environment, public health, property, or the integrity of the scheme, or(b) the suspension is necessary because of an emergency.(6) The EPA may terminate the scheme or part of the scheme without complying with subsections (2) and (3) if it considers that the termination is necessary because of an emergency.s 293A: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [4]. Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [4].
294 Liability of Crown
(1) The Crown does not incur any liability (including liability for compensation) for any loss (including a loss in entitlements or in the value of entitlements) incurred as a consequence of any of the following—(a) the implementation, alteration, suspension or termination of a scheme referred to in section 293 or of any part of such a scheme,(b) the alteration, suspension, cancellation or forfeiture of any rights or entitlements under such a scheme.(2) In this section—compensation includes damages or any other form of monetary compensation.the Crown means the Crown within the meaning of the Crown Proceedings Act 1988, and includes any officer, employee or agent of the Crown.s 294: Subst 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [5].
294A Exercise of functions by Minister and EPA
In exercising their functions under this Part and Parts 9.3A and 9.3B, the Minister and the EPA are to have regard to the objects of this Act, particularly section 3 (d).s 294A: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [6]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [127].
295 Regulations
The regulations may make provision for or with respect to any of the following—(a) the development or implementation of schemes involving economic measures,(b) the alteration, suspension or termination of such a scheme or of any part of such a scheme.Note—More specific regulation-making powers for tradeable emission schemes and green offsets are set out in Parts 9.3A and 9.3B, respectively.s 295: Subst 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [7]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [128].
Part 9.3A Tradeable emission schemes
pt 9.3A: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295A Definitions
In this Part—participant in a tradeable emission scheme means—(a) a person who holds a tradeable emission permit or credit created under the scheme, or(b) a person who holds a licence that authorises the person to carry out any activity that is regulated under the scheme or a licence of a kind prescribed by the regulations as being a licence to which the scheme applies (whether or not the person holds a tradeable emission permit or credit).tradeable emission scheme means a scheme referred to in section 295B.s 295A: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295B Tradeable emission schemes
(1) A tradeable emission scheme may include any or all of the following elements—(a) the creation of a market for entitlements to emit a particular pollutant or pollutants,(b) monitoring and reporting levels of pollution and emission of pollutants,(c) the creation of tradeable emission permits or credits,(d) the initial sale or allocation and further sale or allocation of tradeable emission permits or credits,(e) provision for the holding of tradeable emission permits or credits by members of the public,(f) the rights and duties of participants in the scheme,(g) the trading of tradeable emission permits or credits or of any entitlement conferred by them (including restrictions on trading and any other dealings),(h) safeguards against anti-competitive behaviour by participants in the scheme,(i) the alteration, suspension, cancellation or forfeiture of tradeable emission permits or credits, or other rights or entitlements under the scheme.(2) A tradeable emission scheme must include—(a) a limit on total emissions of the pollutant or pollutants to which the scheme applies, or(b) a scheme to offset pollution, or(c) a program for the surrender of tradeable emission permits or credits over time, or(d) a combination of any or all of the elements referred to in paragraphs (a)–(c).(3) A tradeable emission scheme may include elements other than those mentioned in this section.s 295B: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295C Regulations relating to tradeable emission schemes
(1) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to tradeable emission schemes, including provision for or with respect to any of the elements referred to in section 295B.(2) A tradeable emission scheme regulation is not repealed by the operation of Part 3 of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989.(3) A tradeable emission scheme regulation may be periodically reviewed by the Minister, in accordance with a timetable set out in the regulation. Any such review must include a review of the operation of the elements of the scheme referred to in section 295B (2).(4) The Minister is to ensure that the public is given an opportunity to make submissions with respect to the review, and that any submissions with respect to the review that are received within the period allowed for the receipt of submissions are appropriately considered.(5) In order to give the public an opportunity to make submissions with respect to the review, the Minister must—(a) cause notice of the review to be published in the Gazette and in such other manner as the Minister is satisfied is likely to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in the locality in which the scheme operates, and(b) in that notice, invite the public to make submissions with respect to the review, and(c) allow a period of not less than 21 days for the receipt of those submissions.(6) For the purposes of this section, a tradeable emission scheme regulation is a regulation that contains only the following provisions—(a) provisions that relate to a tradeable emission scheme (including any ancillary, consequential, savings or transitional provisions), and(b) provisions that deal with the citation and commencement of the regulation, or other provisions of a machinery nature.(7) This section does not limit the generality of section 295.s 295C: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8]. Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [5].
295D Licence conditions
(1) The regulations may, for the purpose of giving effect to a tradeable emission scheme, impose conditions on licences.(2) Conditions of a licence that are imposed by the regulations for the purposes of this Part cannot be substituted, omitted, amended or revoked by a regulatory authority.(3) (Repealed)(4) This section does not prevent conditions with respect to a tradeable emission scheme from being attached to a licence by an appropriate regulatory authority in the manner provided for by Chapter 3.s 295D: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8]. Am 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [33].
295E Imposition of penalties for contravention of scheme
(1) If the EPA is satisfied that a participant in a tradeable emission scheme has caused a pollutant to be emitted in contravention of the scheme on one or more occasions, the EPA may, subject to the regulations, require the participant to pay a penalty to the EPA.(2) The penalty is to be the amount prescribed by, or calculated in accordance with, the regulations.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), the regulations may provide for the penalty to be calculated on the basis of the following (or a combination of the following)—(a) the quantity of pollutant emitted by the participant in contravention of the scheme, as estimated by the EPA,(b) the amount of monetary, financial or other economic benefits obtained by the participant as a result of contravening the scheme, as estimated by the EPA.(4) The EPA is required to give written notice to a participant of—(a) any penalty the participant is required to pay under this section, and(b) the time within which the penalty is to be paid.(5) If the participant fails to pay the penalty, within the time specified by the EPA in the notice, the EPA may—(a) cancel, suspend, or order the forfeiture of, any tradeable emission permits or credits held by the participant, in accordance with the regulations, or(b) take any other action against the person (such as suspending the person from participating in the scheme) that is authorised by the regulations.(6) This section does not prevent proceedings being taken against a participant for an offence against this Act or the regulations arising as a result of a contravention of a tradeable emission scheme.(7) The EPA may take any other action authorised by the regulations (as referred to in section 295F) in addition to or instead of imposing a penalty under this section.ss 295E–295H: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295F Other action that may be taken by EPA
(1) The regulations may authorise the EPA, or a person exercising functions under a tradeable emission scheme on behalf of the EPA, to do any or all of the following, in the circumstances set out in the regulations—(a) cancel or suspend tradeable emission permits or credits, or any entitlement that they confer,(b) order the forfeiture of tradeable emission permits or credits to the EPA,(c) cancel or suspend a person’s right to participate in the scheme, or impose conditions or other restrictions on any such right.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations may authorise such action to be taken—(a) for one or more contraventions of the scheme, or(b) for a failure to pay any penalty, contribution or other amount payable in connection with the scheme.ss 295E–295H: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295G Participation in scheme by EPA
The EPA may participate in a tradeable emission scheme, including by holding and trading in tradeable emission permits and credits.ss 295E–295H: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295H Cost recovery
(1) The regulations may require participants in a tradeable emission scheme to pay to the EPA a contribution towards the following—(a) the costs of management and administration of the scheme (including payment for services provided by any person or body exercising functions under the scheme),(b) the costs of ensuring compliance with the scheme,(c) any other costs relating to the scheme.(2) The amount of the contribution (or the manner in which it is to be calculated) and other matters concerning its payment are to be set out in the regulations.(3) The contribution is recoverable by the EPA as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(4) The regulations may authorise the payment of the contribution by instalments. If an instalment is not paid by the due date, the balance then becomes due and payable (together with any interest or other penalty for late payment prescribed by the regulations).(5) The regulations may—(a) require a person to continue to make a contribution referred to in this section in respect of a tradeable emission permit or credit that has been forfeited until the permit or credit is sold or re-allocated, and(b) exempt any person or class of persons from payment of a contribution referred to in this section.(6) The EPA is not required to pay a contribution referred to in this section.ss 295E–295H: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295I Tradeable Emission Schemes Fund
(1) There is to be established in the Special Deposits Account an account called the Tradeable Emission Schemes Fund.(2) Money in the Fund is under the control of the EPA and can be expended by the EPA only for the purposes authorised by this section.(3) There is to be paid into the Fund—(a) all contributions paid by participants in a tradeable emission scheme under a regulation referred to in section 295H (Cost recovery), and(a1) the proceeds of any auction or other sale of permits or credits, or any entitlement conferred by them, under a tradeable emission scheme, and(b) the proceeds of investment of money in the Fund, and(c) any gift or bequest of money for the purposes of the Fund, and(d) any other money appropriated by Parliament for the purposes of the Fund or required by law to be paid into the Fund.(4) There may be paid out of the Fund—(a) the costs of management and administration of tradeable emission schemes (including payment for services provided by any person or body exercising functions under the scheme), and(b) the costs of ensuring compliance with tradeable emission schemes, and(c) such other costs relating to tradeable emission schemes as the EPA directs to be paid out of the Fund.(4A) There may be paid out of the Fund to the Consolidated Fund any amount in the Fund that, in the opinion of the EPA, is in excess of the amounts required to meet the costs referred to in subsection (4).(5) A separate account is to be established in the Fund for each tradeable emission scheme.(6) If more than one account in the Fund is established under this Part, money in the accounts may be invested as a common pool. The proceeds of investments are to be distributed rateably among the accounts that contributed money to the common pool according to the amount contributed.s 295I: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8]. Am 2002 No 61, Sch 1 [1] [2].
295J Exercise of scheme functions by other persons and bodies
(1) The EPA may enter into agreements and other arrangements with a person or body in respect of the exercise of the functions of the EPA under a tradeable emission scheme by the person or body on behalf of the EPA.(2) The regulations may provide for the constitution of committees (as incorporated or unincorporated bodies)—(a) to provide advice on tradeable emission schemes, and(b) to exercise any other functions conferred on them by the EPA or by the regulations in connection with tradeable emission schemes.(3) A matter or thing done or omitted to be done by such a committee, a member of the committee or a person acting under the direction of the committee does not, if the matter or thing was done or omitted to be done in good faith for the purpose of executing this or any other Act or the regulations, subject a member or a person so acting personally to any action, liability, claim or demand.ss 295J–295L: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295K Liability for operation of scheme
(1) The Crown does not incur any liability (including liability for compensation) in respect of anything done or omitted to be done in good faith by the EPA, or by a person exercising functions under a tradeable emission scheme on behalf of the EPA, in connection with the operation of a tradeable emission scheme.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), that subsection applies to anything done or omitted to be done in connection with the operation of any register or other system by which tradeable emission permits or credits, or other entitlements, are traded under a tradeable emission scheme.(3) This section does not limit the generality of section 294.(4) In this section—compensation includes damages or any other form of monetary compensation.the Crown means the Crown within the meaning of the Crown Proceedings Act 1988, and includes any officer, employee or agent of the Crown.ss 295J–295L: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
295L Application of Duties Act 1997
A tradeable emission permit or credit, or any other entitlement, created under a tradeable emission scheme is not dutiable property for the purposes of the Duties Act 1997.ss 295J–295L: Ins 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [8].
Part 9.3B Green offsets
pt 9.3B: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295M Definitions
In this Part—licensed activity means an activity authorised or controlled by a licence.participant in a green offset scheme means—(a) a person who holds a green offset credit created under the scheme, or(b) a person who holds a licence that is subject to a condition that requires or authorises the person to participate in or contribute to the scheme, or a licence of a prescribed kind, or(c) a person (other than the holder of a licence) who arranges, implements or manages the scheme.participant in green offset works means—(a) a person who holds a licence that is subject to a condition that requires or authorises the person to implement or arrange the works, or(b) a person (other than the holder of a licence) who implements or manages the works.ss 295M–295P: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295N Licence conditions
(1) A condition of a licence may be imposed in relation to a green offset scheme or work even though—(a) the scheme or work does not relate to the licensed premises, orso long as the harm arises from the same kind of licensed activities and relates to the same types of pollutants or impacts that arise from the activity authorised or controlled by the licence.(b) the scheme or work does not relate to harm arising from the activity authorised or controlled by the licence,(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may not impose any such condition on a licence unless it is satisfied of the following—(a) that the pollutants or impacts of the activity may not be otherwise prevented, controlled, abated or mitigated in a cost effective way by other measures under the licence,(b) that the proposed green offset scheme or work is likely to result in at least the same or a more beneficial effect on the environment than the use of such other measures,(c) that the effects and benefits of the proposed green offset scheme or work may be reliably estimated or ascertained by the authority,(d) that the effects of the proposed green offset scheme or work are likely to occur wholly or partly in an area affected by the pollutants or impacts that arise from the activity,(e) that the effects and benefits of the proposed green offset scheme or work are likely to last at least until the relevant impact of the activity is offset.(3) The regulations may, for the purpose of giving effect to a green offset scheme or works, impose conditions on licences.(4) Conditions of a licence that are imposed by the regulations for the purposes of this Part cannot be substituted, omitted, amended or revoked by a regulatory authority.(5) This section does not prevent a condition from being attached to a licence by an appropriate regulatory authority in the manner provided by Chapter 3.Note—Under section 69, conditions may be imposed on licences implementing or otherwise relating to green offset schemes and green offset works.ss 295M–295P: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295O Green offset schemes
(1) A green offset scheme is a scheme established for any or all of the following purposes—(a) to carry out a specified program for the restoration or enhancement of the environment that is related to a licensed activity,(b) to prevent, control, abate, mitigate or otherwise offset any harm to the environment arising (wholly or partly) from any licensed activity,(c) to make good any environmental damage arising (wholly or partly) from a licensed activity.(2) A green offset scheme may include any or all of the following elements—(a) contractual agreements or other arrangements between the person who arranges or implements or manages a green offset scheme and other participants in the scheme,(b) the creation of a market for entitlements to participate in a green offset scheme,(c) the creation of green offset credits,(d) the initial sale or allocation and further sale or allocation of green offset credits,(e) provision for the holding of green offset credits by participants,(f) the payment of contributions to the scheme for works under the scheme,(g) the implementation of works by participants in the scheme,(h) the payment of administrative costs relating to the scheme,(i) the rights and duties of participants in the scheme,(j) the trading of green offset credits or of any entitlements conferred by them (including restrictions on trading and any other dealings),(k) safeguards against anti-competitive behaviour by participants in the scheme,(l) the alteration, suspension, cancellation or forfeiture of green offset credits, or other rights or entitlements under the scheme,(m) provision for a register of green offset credits and participants and for the circumstances in which register information may be disclosed.(3) A green offset scheme may include elements other than those mentioned in this section.(4) A green offset scheme may, subject to any applicable licence conditions—(a) be arranged or implemented or managed by the holder of a licence or another person, and(b) involve both participants who are licence holders and who are not licence holders.ss 295M–295P: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295P Green offset works
(1) Green offset works are works established by or on behalf of the holder of a licence for any or all of the following purposes—(a) to prevent, control, abate, mitigate or otherwise offset any harm to the environment arising (wholly or partly) from any licensed activity,(b) to make good any environmental damage arising (wholly or partly) from a licensed activity.(2) Green offset works may include any or all of the following elements—(a) contractual agreements or other arrangements between the holder of a licence and a person who implements or manages the works,(b) the implementation or arrangement of works by participants,(c) the payment of administrative costs relating to the works,(d) the rights and duties of participants in the works.(3) Green offset works may form part of a green offset scheme.(4) Green offset works may include elements other than those mentioned in this section.(5) Green offset works may, subject to any applicable licence conditions, be implemented or managed by the holder of a licence or another person.ss 295M–295P: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295Q Regulations relating to green offsets
(1) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to green offset schemes or works, including provision for or with respect to the following matters—(a) any of the elements referred to in section 295O or 295P,(b) requirements for agreements or other arrangements relating to green offset schemes or works,(c) criteria for activities that may be covered by a green offset scheme or works,(d) inspection of premises at which a green offset scheme or works are carried out,(e) the functions of a manager of a green offset scheme or works and accountability requirements for managers.(2) The regulations must make provision for or with respect to the following matters—(a) if appropriate criteria and methodologies are available, the criteria and methodologies for determining whether green offset schemes or works meet required outcomes specified in licence conditions,(b) evaluation, on a periodic basis, of green offset schemes or works and publication of such evaluations.(3) A green offset regulation is not repealed by the operation of Part 3 of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989.(4) A green offset regulation may be periodically reviewed by the Minister, in accordance with a timetable set out in the regulation. Any such review must include a review of the operation of the elements referred to in section 295O or 295P.(5) The Minister is to ensure that the public is given an opportunity to make submissions with respect to the review, and that any submissions with respect to the review that are received within the period allowed for the receipt of submissions are appropriately considered.(6) In order to give the public an opportunity to make submissions with respect to the review, the Minister must—(a) cause notice of the review to be published in the Gazette and in such other manner as the Minister is satisfied is likely to bring the notice to the attention of members of the public generally or in the locality in which any relevant green offset scheme operates or relevant green offset works are located, and(b) in that notice, invite the public to make submissions with respect to the review, and(c) allow a period of not less than 21 days for the receipt of those submissions.(7) For the purposes of this section, a green offset regulation is a regulation that contains only the following provisions—(a) provisions that relate to green offset schemes or works (including any ancillary, consequential, savings or transitional provisions),(b) provisions that deal with the citation and commencement of the regulation, or other provisions of a machinery nature.(8) This section does not limit the generality of section 295.s 295Q: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129]. Am 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [6].
295R Action that may be taken by EPA in relation to green offset schemes or works
(1) The regulations may authorise the EPA, or a person exercising functions under a green offset scheme on behalf of the EPA, to do any or all of the following, in the circumstances set out in the regulations—(a) cancel or suspend green offset credits, or any entitlement that they confer,(b) order the forfeiture of green offset credits to the EPA,(c) cancel or suspend a person’s right to participate in a green offset scheme, or impose conditions or other restrictions on the right.(2) The EPA may appoint a person to manage a green offset scheme or works on behalf of the EPA.(3) The EPA may manage or participate in a green offset scheme, including by holding, creating and trading in green offset credits, and may manage or participate in green offset works.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295S Administrative costs
(1) The regulations may require participants in a green offset scheme to pay to the EPA a contribution towards the following—(a) the costs of management and administration of the scheme (including payment for services provided by any person or body exercising functions under the scheme),(b) the costs of ensuring compliance with the scheme,(c) any other costs relating to the scheme.(2) The regulations may require participants in green offset works to pay to the EPA a contribution towards the following—(a) the costs of management and administration of the works (including payment for services provided by any person or body providing or managing the works),(b) the costs of ensuring compliance with the works,(c) any other costs relating to the works.(3) The regulations may—(a) require a person to continue to make a contribution referred to in this section in respect of a green offset credit that has been forfeited until the credit is sold or re-allocated, and(b) exempt any person or class of persons from payment of a contribution referred to in this section.(4) The EPA is not required to pay a contribution referred to in this section.(5) This section does not apply to contributions for works under green offset schemes.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295T Payment of contributions
(1) A contribution payable under this Part is recoverable by the EPA as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(2) The regulations may provide for matters concerning the payment of a contribution payable under this Part.(3) The regulations may authorise the payment of a contribution payable under this Part by instalments. If an instalment is not paid by the due date, the balance then becomes due and payable (together with any interest or other penalty for late payment prescribed by the regulations).ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295U Green Offsets Fund
(1) There is to be established in the Special Deposits Account an account called the Green Offsets Fund.(2) Money in the Fund is under the control of the EPA and can be expended by the EPA only for the purposes authorised by this section.(3) There is to be paid into the Fund—(a) all contributions for green offset schemes paid by the holders of licences, and(b) all contributions paid by participants in a green offset scheme or works under a regulation referred to in section 295S, and(c) the proceeds of any auction or other sale of credits, or any entitlement conferred by them, under a green offset scheme, and(d) the proceeds of investment of money in the Fund, and(e) any gift or bequest of money for the purposes of the Fund, and(f) any other money appropriated by Parliament for the purposes of the Fund or required by law to be paid into the Fund.(4) There may be paid out of the Fund—(a) the costs of green offset schemes, including management and administration of schemes and payment for works under the scheme and services provided by any person or body exercising functions under the scheme, and(b) the costs of green offset works, including management of works and payment for services by any person or body providing or managing the works, and(c) the costs of ensuring compliance with green offset schemes or the provision of green offset works, and(d) such other costs relating to green offset schemes or works as the EPA directs to be paid out of the Fund.(5) There may be paid out of the Fund to the Consolidated Fund any amount in the Fund that, in the opinion of the EPA, is in excess of the amounts required to meet the costs referred to in subsection (4).(6) A separate account is to be established in the Fund for each green offset scheme.(7) If more than one account in the Fund is established under this Part, money in the accounts may be invested as a common pool. The proceeds of investments are to be distributed rateably among the accounts that contributed money to the common pool according to the amount contributed.(8) This section does not apply to or in respect of contributions, proceeds, money or costs payable in respect of a green offset scheme implemented or managed by a public authority and approved for the purposes of this subsection by the EPA.(9) The EPA may not approve a green offset scheme for the purposes of subsection (8) unless it is satisfied that appropriate provision is made for managing and auditing the funds of the scheme.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295V Exercise of scheme functions by other persons and bodies
(1) The EPA may enter into agreements and other arrangements with a person or body in respect of the exercise of the functions of the EPA under a green offset scheme or in relation to green offset works by the person or body on behalf of the EPA.(2) The regulations may provide for the constitution of committees (as incorporated or unincorporated bodies)—(a) to provide advice on green offset schemes, and(b) to exercise any other functions conferred on them by the EPA or by the regulations in connection with green offset schemes or works.(3) A matter or thing done or omitted to be done by such a committee, a member of the committee or a person acting under the direction of the committee does not, if the matter or thing was done or omitted to be done in good faith for the purpose of executing this or any other Act or the regulations, subject a member or a person so acting personally to any action, liability, claim or demand.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295W Liability for operation of scheme
(1) The Crown does not incur any liability (including liability for compensation) in respect of anything done or omitted to be done in good faith by the EPA, or by a person exercising functions on behalf of the EPA, in connection with the operation of a green offset scheme or works.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), that subsection applies to anything done or omitted to be done in connection with the operation of any register or other system by which green offset credits, or other entitlements, are traded under a green offset scheme.(3) This section does not limit the generality of section 294.(4) In this section—compensation includes damages or any other form of monetary compensation.the Crown means the Crown within the meaning of the Crown Proceedings Act 1988, and includes any officer, employee or agent of the Crown.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
295X Application of Duties Act 1997
A green offset credit, or any other entitlement, created under a green offset scheme is not dutiable property for the purposes of the Duties Act 1997.ss 295R–295X: Ins 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [129].
Part 9.3C Environmental monitoring
pt 9.3C: Ins 2010 (85), Sch 1 [3].
295Y Environmental monitoring programs
(1) The EPA may, on its own initiative, and must, at the direction of the Minister, investigate the need for a program (referred to in this Part as an environmental monitoring program) to monitor the impact on the environment and human health of activities or works authorised or controlled by licences, including pollution resulting from those activities or works.(2) If, after completing an investigation, the EPA is satisfied that an environmental monitoring program is required, it may develop and implement such a program.(3) If a proposed environmental monitoring program relates to licensed activities or works within the portfolio responsibility of the Minister administering the Biosecurity Act 2015 or the Minister administering the Transport Administration Act 1988, the Minister is to consult with that Minister about the development and implementation of the proposed program.(4) The EPA may enter into an arrangement with a person or body in respect of the exercise, by the person or body on behalf of the EPA, of the EPA’s functions in relation to an environmental monitoring program.(5) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to environmental monitoring programs, including the requirements for the EPA to review and report on any such program.(6) The EPA is to obtain, and take into consideration, advice from one or more independent persons or bodies with relevant technical and health expertise as to the cost effectiveness of any environmental monitoring program.s 295Y: Ins 2010 (85), Sch 1 [3]. Am 2023 No 35, Sch 1.16.
295Z Environmental monitoring levies
(1) The regulations may require a specified licence holder, or a specified class of licence holders, to pay to the EPA a contribution towards the costs of environmental monitoring programs (referred to in this Part as an environmental monitoring levy).(2) The amount of the environmental monitoring levy (or the manner in which it is to be calculated) and other matters concerning its payment, including interest payable for late payment, are to be set out in the regulations.(3) An environmental monitoring levy is recoverable by the EPA as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(4) For the purposes of this Part, the costs of environmental monitoring programs include—(a) the costs of investigating the need for, and the development, implementation, operation and administration of, environmental monitoring programs (including any costs incurred by the EPA before the commencement of this Part), and(b) payments by the EPA for services provided by a person or body exercising functions in relation to environmental monitoring programs on behalf of the EPA.s 295Z: Ins 2010 (85), Sch 1 [3].
295ZA Environmental Monitoring Fund
(1) There is to be established in the Special Deposits Account an account called the Environmental Monitoring Fund (the Fund).(2) Money in the Fund is under the control of the EPA and can be expended by the EPA only for the purposes authorised by this section.(3) The following are to be paid into the Fund—(a) any environmental monitoring levy paid by a licence holder,(b) money advanced by the Treasurer for payment into the Fund,(c) the proceeds of investment of money in the Fund,(d) any gift or bequest of money for the purposes of the Fund,(e) any other money appropriated by Parliament for the purposes of the Fund or required by law to be paid into the Fund.(4) The following are to be paid out of the Fund—(a) the costs of environmental monitoring programs,(b) such other costs relating to environmental monitoring programs as the EPA directs to be paid out of the Fund,(c) the refund, in accordance with the regulations, of an environmental monitoring levy paid by a licence holder.(5) A separate account is to be established in the Fund for each environmental monitoring program.(6) The EPA may invest money in the Fund—(a) if the EPA is a GSF agency for the purposes of Part 6 of the Government Sector Finance Act 2018—in any way that the EPA is permitted to invest money under that Part, or(b) if the EPA is not a GSF agency for the purposes of Part 6 of the Government Sector Finance Act 2018—in any way approved by the Treasurer.s 295ZA: Ins 2010 (85), Sch 1 [3]. Am 2018 No 70, Sch 3.52.
Part 9.3D Pollution incidents—analysis of risk
pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZB Definition
In this Part—relevant person, in relation to a pollution incident, means—(a) the occupier of the premises at or from which the EPA reasonably suspects that the pollution incident occurred or is occurring, or(b) the person who is reasonably suspected by the EPA of having caused the pollution incident.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZC Conduct of health risk analysis
(1) If the EPA reasonably suspects that a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring, the EPA may request that the Chief Health Officer of the Ministry of Health undertake an analysis of the risk created by that incident to the health of any person or group of persons.(2) The Chief Health Officer may undertake such an analysis.(3) If such an analysis is undertaken, the Director-General of the Ministry of Health may, by notice in writing, require any or all of the relevant persons in relation to the pollution incident to pay any or all of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Chief Health Officer in connection with that analysis.(4) The Chief Health Officer may make use of the staff or facilities of the Ministry of Health, or engage agents or consultants, for the purposes of carrying out an analysis under this section.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZD Conduct of environmental risk analysis
(1) If the EPA reasonably suspects that a pollution incident has occurred or is occurring, the EPA may undertake an analysis of—(a) the nature and extent of the pollution incident, including actual or likely harm to the environment, and(b) the actual or likely pollution resulting from the pollution incident.(2) If the EPA undertakes such an analysis, the EPA may, by notice in writing, require any or all of the relevant persons in relation to the pollution incident to pay any or all of the reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the EPA in connection with that analysis.(3) The EPA may engage agents or consultants for the purposes of carrying out an analysis under this section.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZE Recovery of costs of analysis
(1) If the Director-General of the Ministry of Health or the EPA issues a notice requiring payment under this Part, the Director-General or the EPA, as the case requires, may recover any unpaid amount specified in the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction.(2) The reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Chief Health Officer of the Ministry of Health or the EPA in connection with an analysis are not recoverable if the person to whom a notice has been issued under this Part establishes to the satisfaction of the court that the nature and extent of the analysis conducted by the Chief Health Officer or the EPA was not reasonably necessary to respond to the potential public health or environmental concerns arising out of the pollution incident or was not otherwise in the public interest.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZF Recovery from responsible persons
If the person given a notice requiring payment under this Part complies with the notice but was not the person who caused the pollution incident, the amount of the payment may be recovered by the person who complied with the notice as a debt in a court of competent jurisdiction from the person who caused the pollution incident.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
295ZG General provisions
A notice may be given, and action may be taken, under this Part—(a) whether or not the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to the pollution incident, and(b) whether or not a clean-up notice has been given under Part 4.2 with respect to the pollution incident.pt 9.3D (ss 295ZB–295ZG): Ins 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [19].
Part 9.3E Chemicals
pt 9.3E: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Division 1 Industrial chemicals
pt 9.3E, div 1: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296 Definitions
In this division—Commonwealth register means the Register within the meaning of the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management (Register) Act 2021 of the Commonwealth.industrial chemical has the same meaning as in the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 of the Commonwealth.manufacture, an industrial chemical, has the same meaning as in the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 of the Commonwealth.use, an industrial chemical, has the same meaning as in the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 of the Commonwealth.s 296 (as originally enacted): Renumbered as sec 297A, 2024 No 10, Sch 1[12].s 296: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296A NSW Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard Register
(1) The Commonwealth register, as in force from time to time and as modified by the regulations, applies for the purposes of this part and may be referred to as the NSW Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard Register (the NSW IChEMS register).(2) The regulations may modify the Commonwealth register for the purposes of the NSW IChEMS register, including by adding, varying or omitting matter.Example—The regulations may modify the Commonwealth register by adding a chemical for inclusion in the NSW IChEMS register that is not listed in the Commonwealth register.(3) If a later amendment to the Commonwealth register is inconsistent with the regulations, the regulations prevail to the extent of any inconsistency.(4) Terms used in the NSW IChEMS register that have been applied from the Commonwealth register have the same meanings as in the Commonwealth register unless the regulations provide otherwise.s 296A: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296B Users and manufacturers to comply with risk management measures
(1) A person who manufactures or uses an industrial chemical listed in the NSW IChEMS register must comply with the risk management measures specified in the register for the chemical.(2) A failure to comply with a risk management measure referred to in subsection (1) is taken to be a pollution incident.s 296B: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296C Person must not do things prohibited by NSW IChEMS register
(1) A person must not do a thing in relation to an industrial chemical listed in the NSW IChEMS register if doing the thing is prohibited for the chemical in the register.Maximum penalty—(a) for an individual—(i) $500,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$60,000, or(b) otherwise—(i) $2,000,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$120,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) An activity authorised by an environment protection licence is taken not to be a contravention of subsection (1).(3) A person is not guilty of an offence against subsection (1) if the person proves the thing was done in relation to the industrial chemical in a way specified in the NSW IChEMS register as an exception to the prohibition.s 296C: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296D Licence conditions
(1) The conditions of a licence may deal with the following in relation to an industrial chemical—(a) implementing a decision to—(i) list an industrial chemical in the NSW IChEMS register, or(ii) specify a prohibition, restriction, risk management measure or other matter for, or in relation to, an industrial chemical listed in the NSW IChEMS register,(b) engaging in or carrying on another activity involving an industrial chemical listed in the NSW IChEMS register.(2) A condition imposed under this section may require compliance with the condition within a specified period.s 296D: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296E Failure to comply with phase-out conditions
(1) If a phase-out condition of a licence is contravened by a person, each holder of the licence is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—(a) for an individual—(i) $500,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$60,000, or(b) otherwise—(i) $2,000,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$120,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting special executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169.(2) The holder of a licence is not guilty of an offence against this section if the holder establishes that—(a) the contravention of the condition was caused by another person, and(b) the other person was not associated with the holder when the condition was contravened, and(c) the holder took all reasonable steps to prevent the contravention of the condition.(3) Without limiting subsection (2)(b), a person is associated with the holder if the person is an employee, agent, licensee, contractor or subcontractor of the holder.(4) In this section—holder, of a licence, includes—(a) the former holder of the licence, and(b) another person required to comply with the condition or to whom the condition applies.phase-out condition means a condition—(a) imposed on a licence in relation to a Schedule 6 or 7 chemical within the meaning of Schedule 1, and(b) specified in the licence as a phase-out condition.s 296E: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Division 2 Chemical use notices
pt 9.3E, div 2: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296F Chemical use notices
(1) The EPA may publish an order in the Gazette requiring a person to give information to the EPA in relation to a chemical (a chemical use notice) if—(a) the chemical is listed in the NSW IChEMS register, or(b) a chemical control order is in force for the chemical, or(c) the chemical, in the EPA’s opinion, has the potential to present a risk of harm to human health or the environment.(2) A chemical use notice may require persons who manufacture or use, or who intend to manufacture or use, the chemical—(a) to give information to the EPA, and(b) to pay to the EPA a fee in accordance with the regulations.(3) A chemical use notice must specify the following—(a) the information that must be given,(b) the time within which the information must be given.(4) A chemical use notice may specify the form and way in which the information must be given.(5) A chemical use notice may require a person to give information about the following—(a) the chemical,(b) if the person manufactures the chemical—the manufacture of the chemical by the person, or the use or proposed use of the chemical,(c) if the person uses the chemical—the use of the chemical by the person,(d) the use or manufacture of another substance or thing, including another chemical, that together with the chemical may increase the risk posed by the chemical,(e) the person, including the contact details of the person,(f) the premises at which the chemical is manufactured or used,(g) the quantity of the chemical manufactured, used or stored at the premises,(h) other information prescribed by the regulations.(6) A chemical use notice may require a person to update information given under the notice at the times or in the circumstances specified in the notice.(7) A person must comply with a chemical use notice.Maximum penalty—(a) for an individual—(i) $250,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$60,000, or(b) otherwise—(i) $1,000,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$120,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.s 296F: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296G Use and disclosure of information
(1) The EPA may, for the exercise of its functions, use information collected under a chemical use notice.(2) The EPA may disclose information collected under a chemical use notice if—(a) the disclosure is to an agency of this or another Australian jurisdiction, and(b) the EPA is reasonably satisfied the disclosure is relevant to the functions of the agency in relation to industrial chemicals.s 296G: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296H Chemical use notice fees
(1) The regulations may make provision about fees required to be paid to the EPA by persons who are required to give the EPA information under a chemical use notice.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations may make provision about the following—(a) the method for determining the amount of the fees,(b) the payment of the fees, including the period within which the fees must be paid, payment by instalments and the payment of interest on unpaid fees,(c) the recovery of the fees by the EPA,(d) the refund or waiver of the fees, in whole or in part, by the EPA,(e) the reduction of the fees in specified circumstances, including the granting of fee discounts by the EPA.s 296H: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Division 3 Chemical control orders
pt 9.3E, div 3: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296I Grounds for making orders
(1) The EPA may make an order (a chemical control order) prohibiting or regulating one or more of the following activities in relation to a chemical—(a) manufacturing or processing the chemical,(b) keeping or storing the chemical,(c) distributing or transporting the chemical,(d) using the chemical,(e) selling or disposing of the chemical,(f) an activity relating to an activity referred to in paragraphs (a)–(e).(2) The EPA may make the order if satisfied the order is necessary to prevent or minimise an adverse effect on the environment that may result from carrying on the activity in relation to the chemical.(3) Without limiting subsection (2), an activity that results or is likely to result in the following is taken to have an adverse effect on the environment—(a) storing the chemical in accumulating deposits,(b) dumping or abandoning the chemical,(c) otherwise dealing with the chemical as waste.s 296I: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296J Making orders
(1) A chemical control order is made by publishing the order in the Gazette.(2) The order must include the following—(a) the name of the chemical to which the order relates,(b) for activities prohibited by the order—details of the activities,(c) for activities regulated by the order—(i) details of the activities, and(ii) details of how the activities are regulated,(d) the day on which the order commences,(e) the grounds for making the order.(3) If the chemical to which the order relates is mixed with other chemicals or substances, the order may apply to the other chemicals or substances in the same way as it applies to the chemical.(4) An order must not be made in relation to—(a) a chemical prescribed by the regulations, or(b) a radioactive substance within the meaning of the Protection from Harmful Radiation Act 1990.s 296J: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296K Date orders come into force
A chemical control order comes into force—(a) if the order is specified to be an emergency chemical control order—(i) on the day the order is made, or(ii) if a later date is specified in the order—on the later date, or(b) otherwise—(i) on the date specified in the order, or(ii) if the date specified is less than 21 days after the order is made—on the day that is 21 days after the order is made.s 296K: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296L Person must comply with orders
(1) A person must not carry on an activity in relation to a chemical in contravention of a chemical control order.Maximum penalty—(a) for an individual—(i) $250,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$60,000, or(b) otherwise—(i) $1,000,000, and(ii) for each day the offence continues—$120,000.Note—An offence against this section committed by a corporation is an offence attracting executive liability for a director or other person involved in the management of the corporation—see section 169A.(2) A licence does not authorise the carrying out of an activity in contravention of a chemical control order.s 296L: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296M Licence conditions
(1) A condition of a licence may be imposed to prohibit or regulate one or more of the following activities in relation to a chemical—(a) manufacturing or processing the chemical,(b) keeping or storing the chemical,(c) distributing or transporting the chemical,(d) using the chemical,(e) selling or disposing of the chemical,(f) an activity relating to an activity referred to in paragraphs (a)–(e).(2) Without limiting subsection (1), a condition of a licence may be imposed to require steps to be taken to secure premises or a storage area in or on which a chemical is stored.s 296M: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Division 4 Assessment of technology
pt 9.3E, div 4: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296N Application for assessment of technology
(1) A person may apply to the EPA for an assessment of technology that the person proposes to use in relation to processing, remediating or disposing of—(a) a chemical the subject of a chemical control order, or(b) an industrial chemical.(2) The application must be in the approved form.(3) The EPA may require the application to be accompanied by the fee prescribed by the regulations.s 296N: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296O Requirement for assessment of technology
If a licence application has been made, the appropriate regulatory authority may, by written notice given to the applicant, require the applicant to apply to the EPA for an assessment of technology under section 296N if the authority considers it necessary to properly assess the application.s 296O: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Division 5 Forfeiture of chemicals
pt 9.3E, div 5: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296P Forfeiture of substances and containers by order of court
(1) The Land and Environment Court may order the forfeiture of the following if a person is convicted of an offence against this part—(a) all or part of the chemical or a container of the chemical in relation to which the offence was committed,(b) a substance or container of a substance seized in connection with the offence.(2) On the making of the order, the chemical or container becomes the property of the Crown.s 296P: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296Q Retention and disposal of seized property
(1) During the prescribed period, the EPA may do one or more of the following in relation to a substance or container seized under section 198 (a seized substance or container)—(a) keep the seized substance or container,(b) return the seized substance or container to the person—(i) from whom it was seized, or(ii) who appears to the EPA to be its owner,(c) by written notice published on the EPA’s website, advertise that an application will be made on a specified day for forfeiture to the Crown of the seized substance or container.(2) The Land and Environment Court may, after determining the application, order—(a) the return of the seized substance or container to a specified person, or(b) the forfeiture to the Crown of the seized substance or container.(3) If not sooner forfeited or returned, a seized substance or container must, after the expiry of the prescribed period, be returned to the person—(a) from whom it was seized, or(b) who appears to the EPA to be its owner.(4) In this section—prescribed period means—(a) a period of 6 months commencing from the day of the seizure of the substance or container, or(b) a longer period specified by the Land and Environment Court on the application of the EPA.s 296Q: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
296R Disposal of forfeited property
(1) A substance or container forfeited to the Crown must be disposed of in accordance with the direction of the EPA.(2) If a substance or container is disposed of by selling, the proceeds must be paid into the Consolidated Fund.s 296R: Ins 2024 No 10, Sch 1[11].
Part 9.4 Financial assurances
297
297B
s 297 (as originally enacted): Renumbered as sec 297B, 2024 No 10, Sch 1[12].
297A Purpose of this Part
(1) The purpose of this Part is to provide (by way of conditions of environment protection licences) financial assurances to secure or guarantee funding for or towards the carrying out of works or programs (such as remediation work or pollution reduction programs) required by or under a licence.(2) A financial assurance is not to operate as a mere penalty for a contravention of this Act, the regulations or the conditions of a licence.s 297A (previously s 296): Renumbered 2024 No 10, Sch 1[12].
297B Definition of “conditions” of licence
In this Part, a reference to the conditions of an environment protection licence includes a reference to the conditions of the suspension, revocation or surrender of such a licence.s 297B (previously s 297): Renumbered 2024 No 10, Sch 1[12].
298 Requiring financial assurances
(1) Condition for financial assurance The conditions of an environment protection licence may require the holder or former holder of the licence to provide a financial assurance. The appropriate regulatory authority may require any such financial assurance to be provided before it issues, suspends or revokes the licence or before it approves of its surrender.(2) Form of financial assurance A financial assurance may be in one or more of the following forms—(a) a bank guarantee,(b) a bond,(c) another form of security that the appropriate regulatory authority considers appropriate and specifies in the condition.(3) Provision for use of financial assurance A condition of a licence may provide for the procedures under which the financial assurance may be called on or used.
299 Restriction on requiring financial assurance
The appropriate regulatory authority cannot impose a condition on a licence requiring a financial assurance to be provided unless it is satisfied that the condition is justified having regard to—(a) the degree of risk of environmental harm associated with the activities under the licence, or(b) the remediation work that may be required because of activities under the licence, or(c) the environmental record of the holder or former holder of the licence or proposed holder of the licence, or(c1) the financial capacity of the holder or former holder of the licence or proposed holder of the licence, or(d) any other matters prescribed by the regulations.s 299: Am 2022 No 3, Sch 5[71].
300 Amount of financial assurances
(1) Determination of amount The amount of a financial assurance is to be as determined by the appropriate regulatory authority.(2) Limit on amount However, the appropriate regulatory authority must not require financial assurances of an amount that exceeds the total cost of carrying out the relevant work or program. That total cost is the amount that, in that authority’s opinion, represents a reasonable estimate of the total likely costs and expenses that may be incurred in carrying out the work or program required by or under this Act for which the financial assurance is required, including the likely costs and expenses of that authority in directing and supervising the carrying out of the work or program.(3) Costs of assessment The appropriate regulatory authority may require the holder or former holder of a licence who is required to give a financial assurance to provide to the authority an independent assessment of the cost of the relevant work or program for which the assurance is required.s 300: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [130].
301 Guidelines about financial assurances
The regulations may make provision for or with respect to guidelines to be observed in relation to the content of conditions of licences requiring financial assurances and in relation to the calculation of the amount of financial assurances required.s 301: Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [131].
302 Carrying out of work or program when licensee fails to do so
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority may carry out, or direct or supervise the carrying out by another person of, any work or program covered by any financial assurance required by the conditions of an environment protection licence if the holder or former holder of the licence fails, in the opinion of that authority, to carry out that work or program in accordance with the conditions of the licence.(2) The appropriate regulatory authority may do so by the use of contractors, consultants or otherwise.(3) The appropriate regulatory authority may enter, or authorise any other person to enter, the premises concerned to carry out the work or program.
303 Claim on or realising of financial assurance
(1) The appropriate regulatory authority may recover or fund the reasonable costs or expenses of that authority or other person in carrying out any such work or program (including the likely costs and expenses of that authority in directing and supervising the carrying out of the work or program) by making a claim on or realising the financial assurance or part of it.(2) Before making the claim on or realising the financial assurance or part of it, the appropriate regulatory authority must give to the holder or former holder of the licence a written notice under this section.(3) The notice must—(a) state details of the work or program carried out or proposed to be carried out, and(b) state the amount of the financial assurance to be claimed or realised, and(c) invite the person to make representations to the appropriate regulatory authority to show why the financial assurance should not be claimed or realised as proposed, and(d) state the period (at least 30 days after the notice is given to the person) within which representations may be made.(4) The representations must be made in writing.(5) After the end of the period stated in the notice, the appropriate regulatory authority must consider any representations properly made by the person.(6) If the appropriate regulatory authority decides to make a claim on or realise the financial assurance or part of it, the appropriate regulatory authority must immediately give written notice to the holder or former holder of the licence of its decision and the reasons for the decision.(7) The appropriate regulatory authority must return any excess amounts to the holder or former holder of the licence or that person’s successors.(8) If the amount of financial assurance claimed or realised by the appropriate regulatory authority is not sufficient to cover all the costs and expenses concerned, that authority may recover the excess from the holder or former holder of the licence as a debt in any court of competent jurisdiction.
304 Lapsing of financial assurance
The requirement to provide financial assurance lapses and no longer binds the holder or former holder of the licence if the appropriate regulatory authority is satisfied that the work or program for which the financial assurance was required has been satisfactorily carried out and has given the holder or former holder of the licence written notice of the lapsing of the financial assurance.
305 Liability of appropriate regulatory authority, State and others
(1) Anything done by or at the direction, or under the supervision, of the appropriate regulatory authority under section 302 (1) is taken to have been done by the holder or former holder of the licence.(2) The State, the Minister, the appropriate regulatory authority, the members of the Board of the EPA, the CEO, any members of the staff of the appropriate regulatory authority and any persons engaged by or otherwise acting with the authority of the appropriate regulatory authority (or any of them)—(a) are not liable for anything done or omitted to be done in good faith in connection with a condition of a licence to which this Part applies or in carrying out or giving effect to this Part, and(b) without affecting the generality of the above, are taken, for the purposes of sections 169–169B, not to be concerned in the management of a corporation when doing or omitting to do anything in connection with such a condition or when carrying out or giving effect to this Part.s 305: Am 2012 No 97, Sch 1.34 [36]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[72].
306 Financial assurance not to affect other action
A financial assurance may be called on and used, despite and without affecting—(a) any liability of the holder or former holder of the licence to any penalty for an offence for a contravention to which the assurance relates, and(b) any other action that might be taken or is required to be taken in relation to any contravention or other circumstances to which the assurance relates.
307 Disputes regarding call on or use of financial assurance
The Land and Environment Court has jurisdiction to determine disputes about calling on or using a financial assurance.
Part 9.4A Restrictions and covenants on land
pt 9.4A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[73].
307A Ongoing maintenance—restrictions and covenants
(1) This section applies to land on which is located premises to which—(a) a licence or suspended licence applies, or(b) a revoked or surrendered licence applied where—(i) the revocation or surrender was subject to conditions, and(ii) the conditions have not been satisfied or revoked.(2) The EPA may, under the Conveyancing Act 1919, section 88E—(a) impose restrictions on the use of, or impose public positive covenants on the land for the purpose of enforcing a condition of—(i) the licence, or(ii) the suspension, revocation or surrender of the licence, and(b) release or vary a restriction or covenant imposed under this section.(3) A restriction or covenant imposed under this section may require the owner of the land to do 1 or more of the following in relation to the land—(a) to inform the EPA of a change in the ownership or occupancy of the land, to the extent that the person is aware of the change,(b) to not carry out, and to not allow other persons to carry out, specified activities on the land,(c) to not use, and to not allow other persons to use, the land for specified purposes,(d) to otherwise do, or not do, a thing that may be required to be done, or that must not be done, under a condition of—(i) the licence, or(ii) the suspension, revocation or surrender of the licence.(4) Despite the Conveyancing Act 1919, section 88E—(a) the memorandum or deed by which the restriction or covenant referred to in subsection (2) is imposed, released or varied—(i) must be executed by the EPA and does not need to be executed by any other person, and(ii) does not require the agreement of any other person, and(b) where a restriction or covenant imposed under this section takes effect, the EPA may enforce the restriction or covenant against any of the following—(i) an owner of the land,(ii) a lessee of the land,(iii) a mortgagee of the land.(5) The EPA may impose, vary or remove a restriction or covenant under this section whether or not the EPA is the appropriate regulatory authority.s 307A: Ins 2022 No 3, Sch 5[73].
Part 9.5 Public register
308 Public register
(1) Each regulatory authority is required to keep a public register in accordance with this section.(2) The regulatory authority must record in the register such of the following matters as are applicable to the regulatory authority—(a) details of each licence application made to that authority,(b) details of each decision of that authority made in respect of any such licence application,(c) details of each licence issued by that authority,(d) details of each variation of the conditions of any such licence,(d1) details of each mandatory environmental audit under Part 6.2 undertaken in relation to a licence issued by that authority,(d2) details of each pollution study required by a condition of a licence issued by that authority,(d3) details of each pollution reduction program required by a condition of a licence issued by that authority,(e) details of each decision of that authority to suspend, revoke or approve the surrender of any such licence (including details of any conditions to which it is subject),(f) details of each certificate supplied in accordance with a condition of any such licence certifying compliance with the conditions of the licence,(g) the date of completion of each review of any such licence by that authority under section 78,(g1) in the case of the EPA—the date of each notice of review of a licence published in accordance with section 78 (2),(h) details of each environment protection notice or noise control notice issued by that authority,(h1) in the case of the EPA—details of each order published under section 133,(i) in the case of the EPA—details of any exemption granted under Part 9.1,(i1) for the EPA—details of each chemical use notice published under Part 9.3E, Division 2,(i2) for the EPA—details of each chemical control order published under Part 9.3E, Division 3,(j) details of convictions in prosecutions under this Act instituted by that authority,(j1) details of each penalty notice issued by that authority,(k) the results of civil proceedings before the Land and Environment Court under this Act by or against that authority,(l) a summary of the conclusions of any audit report in connection with a mandatory environmental audit under Part 6.2 that is supplied to that authority,(m) details of such other matters as are prescribed by the regulations (relating to licences or other matters under or relevant to this Act).(3) The register may be kept in any form determined by the appropriate regulatory authority. Different parts of the register may be kept in different forms.(4) The regulations may authorise the removal from the register of any matter concerning licence applications that were not granted, licences or notices that are no longer in force or exemptions granted by the EPA under Part 9.1, being exemptions that are no longer in force.(5) For the purposes of this section, details of a matter means—(a) particulars of the matter, or(b) a copy of the matter, or(c) any electronic or other reproduction of the matter.s 308: Am 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [14] [15]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [132]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [20] [21]; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [14]; 2018 No 25, Sch 2.27 [7]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[13].
309 Public availability of register
(1) A copy of the public register is to be available for public inspection at the principal office of the regulatory authority and at such other places as that authority thinks fit.(2) A copy of any part of the register may be obtained by members of the public from the regulatory authority.(3) The regulations may prescribe any or all of the following—(a) the means by which the register can be inspected,(b) the hours when the register can be inspected and when copies can be obtained,(c) fees for the inspection of the register,(d) fees for copies of parts of the register.(4) The register can be inspected or copies can be obtained during ordinary office hours, and on payment of fees determined by the regulatory authority, in the absence of regulations prescribing these matters.
Part 9.6 Formal inquiries
310 Conduct of inquiries
(1) Subject-matter of inquiries An inquiry may be conducted by the EPA under this Part into any matter relating to the protection of the environment.(2) EPA may institute inquiry The EPA may determine that such an inquiry be conducted.(3) Minister may require inquiry The Minister may require that such an inquiry be conducted.(4) Matters to be examined The EPA may determine the matters to be examined in the course of an inquiry under this Part, including an inquiry that the Minister has required to be conducted.(5) Other powers not affected Nothing in this section limits the power of the EPA to conduct an inquiry into any matter even though it has appointed another body or person to do so.
311 Person or body conducting inquiries
(1) Constitution of inquiry The EPA may appoint any of the following to conduct an inquiry under this Part—(a) a committee established under the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991,(b) one or more members of the Board of the EPA or of any such committee,(c) any other body, or any other person or persons, the EPA considers appropriate to conduct the inquiry.(2) Appointment of persons to assist inquiry The EPA may appoint one or more persons to assist the inquiry.(3) Chairperson The EPA may, where two or more persons are appointed to conduct the inquiry, appoint one of those persons to preside at any meeting of those persons for the purposes of the inquiry.(4) Remuneration A person appointed by the EPA to conduct or assist the inquiry may be paid such remuneration and allowances (if any) as the Minister determines in respect of the person.
312 Procedures at inquiries
(1) General procedure The procedure to be followed at an inquiry under this Part is to be determined by the body or person conducting it, subject to this Act and the regulations.(2) Notice to provide information or produce documents The body or person conducting the inquiry may, by notice in writing given to any person, require the person within such reasonable time as may be specified in the notice—(a) to furnish to that body or person such information, andas may be required for the purposes of the inquiry and as may be specified in the notice, whether generally or otherwise.(b) to produce to that body or person such documents in the person’s possession or under the person’s control,(3) Notice to give evidence and produce documents The body or person conducting the inquiry may, by notice in writing given to any person, require the person—(a) to attend at a specified time and place before that body or person and thereafter from time to time as required by that body or person, and(b) to give evidence concerning any matter the subject of the inquiry, and(c) to produce all such documents in the person’s possession or under the person’s control as may be required for the purposes of the inquiry and as may be specified in the notice, whether generally or otherwise.(4) Mode of evidence The body or person conducting the inquiry may require any such evidence to be given in writing or orally.(5) Evidence may be given on oath The body or person conducting the inquiry may, subject to section 13 of the Oaths Act 1900, require any such evidence to be given on oath, and for that purpose the person presiding may administer an oath.(6) Written statement The body or person conducting the inquiry may permit a person to give evidence by sending to the body or person a written statement, verified in such manner as the body or person allows.(7) Offence of not complying with notice A person who neglects or refuses to comply with the requirements of a notice given to the person under this section is guilty of an offence.Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.(8) Offence of false information or evidence A person who—(a) furnishes any information pursuant to subsection (2) knowing that it is false or misleading in a material particular, oris guilty of an offence.(b) gives any evidence pursuant to subsection (3) knowing that it is false or misleading in a material particular,Maximum penalty—100 penalty units.(9) Expenses The regulations may prescribe expenses to be allowed to persons attending or giving evidence under this section.(10) Nature of evidence The body or person conducting the inquiry is not bound by the rules of evidence, and may be informed in such manner as the body or person thinks fit.(11) Public interest immunity Nothing in this Part affects any law relating to public interest immunity.(12) Self-incrimination Nothing in this Part affects any law relating to immunity of an individual from self-incrimination.
313 Public nature of inquiries
(1) An inquiry under this Part is to be held in public.(2) Before the inquiry starts, the body or person conducting it is required to give notice, by advertisement in the Gazette and in such newspapers as the body or person thinks appropriate, of the intention to hold the inquiry, of its subject and of the time and place at which it is to start.(3) However, if the body or person conducting the inquiry is satisfied that it is desirable to do so in the public interest because of the confidential nature of any evidence or matter or for any other reason, the body or person may do either or both of the following—(a) direct that the inquiry or any part of it take place in private and give directions as to the persons who may be present, or(b) give directions prohibiting or restricting the publication of evidence given at the inquiry or of matters contained in documents provided for the inquiry.(4) A person who publishes any evidence or matter in contravention of any such direction of the body or person conducting the inquiry is guilty of an offence unless—(a) the publication of the evidence was made with the consent of the person who gave the evidence or the publication of the matter was made with the consent of the person who provided the document, or(b) the evidence or matter has already been lawfully published, or(c) the person became aware of the evidence or matter otherwise than by reason, directly or indirectly, of the giving of the evidence at the inquiry or the provision of the document at the inquiry, or(d) the person had any other lawful excuse to do so.Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.(5) If evidence is given by written statement, the body or person conducting the inquiry is to make available to the public in such manner as the body or person thinks fit the contents of the statement. This does not apply to matter the publication of which, in the opinion of the body or person, would be contrary to the public interest because of its confidential nature or for any other reason.
314 Report of inquiry
(1) Report The body or person conducting an inquiry under this Part is to prepare a report to the EPA of its findings and recommendations. The report is to be provided to the Minister by the EPA if the Minister directed that the inquiry be conducted.(2) Report to be made public The body or person conducting the inquiry is to make the report public, except so far as it contains evidence or matters protected from public disclosure under section 313 (3) (b) and (4).
Part 9.7 Other miscellaneous provisions
315 Act to bind Crown
This Act binds the Crown in right of New South Wales and, in so far as the legislative power of Parliament permits, the Crown in all its other capacities.
316 Resolution of disputes between EPA and public authorities
(1) If a dispute arises between the EPA and a public authority with respect to a decision of the EPA against which an appeal lies under Part 9.2, the EPA or the public authority may refer the dispute to the Premier for settlement in accordance with this section.(2) On the referral of a dispute to the Premier, the Premier may (but need not) appoint a person to hold an inquiry and make a report to the Premier with respect to the dispute.(3) The Premier may decline to deal with the dispute.(4) The Premier may make such orders with respect to the dispute as the Premier thinks fit.(5) Any such order may include the payment of any costs or expenses of or incidental to the holding of an inquiry under this section.(6) The EPA or public authority to which any such order is given must comply with the order.(7) An order by the Premier under this section is final and is taken to be the decision of the EPA.(8) If a dispute is referred to the Premier under this section, the public authority does not have a right of appeal to a court under this Act in respect of the dispute, unless the Premier declines to deal with the dispute.
317 Appointment of persons to exercise certain functions
(1) This section applies to a public body, being—(a) a local council, a county council, a joint organisation under the Local Government Act 1993 or other local authority, or(b) any other public body that—(i) is constituted by or under an Act, and(ii) is not subject to the control or direction of a Minister.This section does not apply to a State owned corporation.(2) If, in the opinion of the Governor, the environment is harmed or is likely to be harmed because of—(a) the failure or refusal of a public body to exercise a statutory function, orthe Governor may, by proclamation, appoint another person to exercise such functions of the body as are specified in the proclamation.(b) the manner in which the body exercises such a function,(3) The person so appointed is taken, during the period of the appointment, to have the functions specified in the person’s appointment and to have those functions to the exclusion of the body that would, but for the appointment, have those functions.(4) A proclamation under subsection (2), unless sooner revoked, ceases to have effect on the expiration of 21 sitting days of the Legislative Assembly after it is made.(5) The Governor may, by proclamation, revoke or amend the terms of an appointment under this section at any time before the proclamation ceases to have effect.(6) The regulations may make provision for or with respect to the functions of a person in connection with the person’s appointment and, in particular, for or with respect to—(a) the remuneration of the person, and(b) the incurring of expenditure by the person, and(c) requiring other persons to render all necessary assistance to the person in the exercise of a function specified in the person’s instrument of appointment.s 317: Am 2017 No 65, Sch 2.25.
318 Exercise of local authority’s licensing functions by EPA
(1) In this section—licensing function means a function of a local regulatory authority under this Act relating to a licence, including the function of determining whether to issue, transfer, amend, suspend or revoke a licence.means a regulatory authority other than the EPA.(2) The Minister may, if the Minister considers that it is expedient in the public interest to do so, direct a local regulatory authority in writing to refer to the EPA a specified licensing function in respect of a particular matter that the Minister considers is of State or regional significance.(3) The Minister may give a direction under this section whether or not the local regulatory authority intends to exercise the licensing function in respect of the matter.(4) The local regulatory authority must, as soon as practicable after receiving a direction under this section—(a) refer to the EPA any application, report or other document or information in the possession of the authority that relates to the matter (including any document or information specified by the Minister in the direction), and(b) notify the applicant or licensee concerned in the matter of the Minister’s direction.(5) Whenever the Minister gives a direction under this section, the local regulatory authority ceases to have the licensing function in respect of the matter, unless the Minister refers the licensing function (or any aspect of that function) back to the authority.(6) The EPA may, after the Minister has given a direction under this section, exercise in the place of the local regulatory authority the licensing function in respect of the matter.(7) For the purpose of the EPA exercising a licensing function in respect of a matter—(a) a reference to the local regulatory authority in any document is taken to be a reference to the EPA, and(b) anything done by the local regulatory authority in the matter before the direction was given may be adopted by the EPA.(8) The determination of the EPA in the exercise of the licensing function is taken to have been done by the local regulatory authority.(9) The local regulatory authority is to give effect to the decision made by the EPA pursuant to a direction under this section. However, the decision does not limit the future exercise of a licensing function by the local regulatory authority in respect of the matter.
319 Disclosure of information
(1) A person is guilty of an offence if the person discloses any information relating to any industrial, agricultural or commercial secrets or working processes obtained in connection with the administration or execution of this Act or the regulations, unless the disclosure—(a) is made with the consent of—(i) the person from whom the information was obtained, or(ii) if the information relates to premises—the occupier of the premises, or(iii) if the information relates to an activity—the person carrying on or proposing to carry on the activity, or(b) is made in connection with the administration or execution of this Act or the regulations, or(c) is made with the prior permission of the Minister, or(d) is ordered by a court, or by any other body or person authorised by law to examine witnesses, in the course of, and for the purpose of, the hearing or determination by that court, body or person of any matter, or(e) is made by a member of the staff of the EPA or other regulatory authority to an officer or authority engaged in administering or executing a law of this State, the Commonwealth or of another State or Territory relating to the protection of the environment or the management of chemicals, or(f) is made by a member of the staff of the EPA or other regulatory authority to any person and its disclosure to that person is reasonably related to the prevention or amelioration of harm to the public, to any person or property or to the environment, or(g) is made under subsection (3), or(h) is made with other lawful excuse.Maximum penalty—200 penalty units.(2) The Minister is not to grant the permission referred to in subsection (1) (c) unless satisfied that to do so would be in the public interest.(2A) A person cannot be required—(a) to produce in any court any document or other thing that has come into the person’s possession, custody or control because of, or in the course of, the exercise of the person’s functions under this Act or the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991, orif the EPA certifies in writing that it is not in the public interest that the document or thing be produced or the information be disclosed.(b) to disclose to any court any information obtained in the exercise of the person’s functions under this Act,(3) The EPA or other regulatory authority may disclose the following information by publishing it in such manner as it considers appropriate—(a) particulars required, or formerly required, to be kept on the register under Part 9.5,(b) the particulars of any notice given under any prescribed provision of the environment protection legislation,(c) particulars of persons charged with or convicted of offences under the environment protection legislation,(d) particulars of a kind prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this subsection.(4) Subsection (3) does not authorise the EPA or other regulatory authority to disclose any information about industrial, agricultural or commercial secrets or working processes obtained from any premises except with the consent of the occupier of the premises.(5) Subsection (3) does not limit the information required to be recorded in a public register under Part 9.5.(6) A reference in this section to the administration or execution of this Act or the regulations includes a reference to the administration or execution of the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 or of any other environment protection legislation prescribed by the regulations.s 319: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [5]; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [9]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [133]–[135]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[14].
319A Continuing effect of notices and conditions
(1) A notice given, or a condition of a licence imposed, under this Act or the regulations that specifies a time by which, or period within which, the notice or condition must be complied with continues to have effect until the notice or condition is complied with even though the time has passed or the period has expired.(2) A notice that does not specify a time by which, or period within which, the notice must be complied with continues to have effect until the notice is complied with.(3) This section does not apply to the extent that any requirement under a notice or a condition of a licence is revoked.(4) Nothing in this section affects the powers of a regulatory authority with respect to the enforcement of a notice or a condition of a licence.s 319A: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [34]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [136]–[138].
319B Public warning statements
(1) The EPA may make or issue a public statement identifying, and giving warnings or information about, the following—(a) substances or activities the EPA reasonably suspects of contributing to a pollution incident, including details about the providers of the substances or activities,(b) an activity the EPA reasonably suspects is being carried out in an environmentally unsatisfactory way, including details about the provider of the activity,(c) an activity, person, substance or other matter that, in the EPA’s opinion, is of environmental concern, including if the EPA suspects there is a potential risk of harm to human health or the environment,Examples—warning against acquiring free fill material from unknown sources and warning not to accept fill material from a particular person in response to offers on social media or from a particular phone number(d) regulatory action taken against a person, including specifying the nature of the regulatory action and, if the person is a corporation, identifying the directors of the corporation and any related body corporate,(e) complaints received by the EPA under environment protection legislation in relation to a matter,(f) anything relevant to the administration of this Act or the regulations and protecting the environment.(2) The statement may do any of the following—(a) identify a particular individual or corporation, including any known aliases of the individual or corporation,(b) identify a particular business practice, service, material or product, including waste,(c) identify a specific substance, including by referring to the brand name of a substance,Example—identifying contaminated fill material by the name the material is sold as from a landscaping company(d) specify information about a substance or activity, including the basis on which the EPA suspects the substance or activity has contributed to a pollution incident or may pose a risk of harm to human health or the environment and warnings or advice for minimising the risk,(e) specify particular locations or premises,Example—specifying that contaminated fill is being advertised as clean fill in a particular region or that the EPA has concerns that excavated material from particular premises has been applied to land at a second premises(f) refer to methods of promoting a substance or activity and ways of operating,Example—advertising free fill material on social media or online marketplaces, or on signs displayed in a particular location with contact details(g) specify regulatory action or previous regulatory action taken in relation to a named person or a person involved in the management of a corporation or business,Example—a statement that a specified person has previously been fined or prosecuted for a particular type of offence(h) specify the nature of complaints the EPA has received about an activity, substance, person engaged in an activity or other matter.Example—in a warning about non-compliant material, identify that the EPA has received a number of complaints about the odour of the material(3) The EPA may make or issue a public statement under this section only if the EPA is satisfied that making or issuing the public statement is in the public interest.Note—See the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991, section 35A, which provides for the exclusion of liability in relation to a statement made or issued under this section, the publication of the statement or a fair report or summary of the statement.s 319B: Ins 2024 No 20, Sch 9[69].
320 Disclosure of monitoring data
(1) In this section, monitoring data means information supplied to the appropriate regulatory authority by the holder of a licence in relation to the monitoring of the following aspects of the activity or work authorised or controlled by the licence—(a) discharges from premises,(b) relevant ambient conditions prevailing on or outside premises,(c) any other thing prescribed by the regulations.(2) The EPA or other regulatory authority may disclose monitoring data by publishing it in such manner as it considers appropriate.(3) The appropriate regulatory authority is to provide a person with access to any monitoring data specified by the person in a written request to the authority. Access is to be provided in the same form that access is required to be provided to information under section 72 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.(4) Any such access to monitoring data may be refused if—(a) the monitoring data is recorded in a public register under Part 9.5, or(b) if the work involved in dealing with the request for access would, if carried out, substantially and unreasonably divert the authority’s resources away from their use by the authority in the exercise of its functions, or(c) if the monitoring data is contained in a document that is usually available for purchase.(5) Subsection (4) (b) does not permit an authority to refuse access to monitoring data without first endeavouring to assist the person to amend the request to enable access to be given.s 320: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [6]; 2009 No 54, Sch 2.38.
320A False representations
(1) A person must not, knowing it to be false or misleading, represent that—(a) any of the following are approved, provided, recommended or used by the EPA—(i) goods,(ii) substances,Example—waste(iii) services, or(b) the person, or another person, holds a licence that permits certain activities, or(c) the person, or another person, is authorised by an order or exemption under this Act to carry out certain activities, or(d) waste supplied under a resource recovery order under section 286A meets the requirements of the order.Maximum penalty—(a) for a corporation—$2,000,000, or(b) for an individual—$500,000 or imprisonment for 18 months, or both.(2) In this section—represent includes cause or permit a representation to be made.s 320A: Ins 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [35]. Am 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [139]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[74]. Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[70].
321 Service of documents
(1) A document authorised or required by this Act or the regulations to be served on a person may be served in any of the following ways—(a) for service on an individual—(i) by personal delivery to the individual, or(ii) by post to—(A) the address specified by the individual for service of documents generally or documents of that kind, or(B) if the individual has not specified an address for service—the residential or business address of the individual last known to the person serving the document, or(iii) if the individual’s address for service includes a document exchange address in New South Wales—by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the individual, at the document exchange in accordance with the usual arrangements for the exchange, or(iv) by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the individual—(A) at the address specified by the individual for service of documents generally or documents of that kind, or(B) if the individual has not specified an address for service—at the residential or business address of the individual last known to the person serving the document, or(v) if the individual has consented, whether explicitly or impliedly, to service of documents generally, or documents of that kind, by electronic communication—by electronic communication, orExamples of impliedly consenting to service of documents by electronic communication—previously using email to correspond with the EPA or including the individual’s email address on applications made, or other documents given, to the EPA(vi) in another way authorised by the regulations for the service of documents generally or documents of that kind,(b) for service on another person—(i) by post to—(A) the address specified by the person for service of documents generally or documents of that kind, or(B) if the person has not specified an address for service—the business address of the person last known to the person serving the document, or(ii) if the person’s address for service includes a document exchange address in New South Wales—by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the person, at the document exchange in accordance with the usual arrangements for the exchange, or(iii) by leaving a copy of the document, addressed to the person—(A) at the address specified by the person for service of documents generally or documents of that kind, or(B) if the person has not specified an address for service—at the business address of the person last known to the person serving the document, or(iv) if the person has consented, whether explicitly or impliedly, to service of documents generally, or documents of that kind, by electronic communication—by electronic communication, orExamples of impliedly consenting to service of documents by electronic communication—previously using email to correspond for the purposes of this Act or including the person’s email address on applications or other documents under this Act(v) in another way authorised by the regulations for the service of documents generally or documents of that kind.(2) Nothing in this section affects the operation of another law, including the rules of a court, authorising a document to be served on a person in another way.(3) In this section—electronic communication has the same meaning as in the Electronic Transactions Act 2000.serve includes give, issue, notify and send.s 321: Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[71].
322 Effect of this Act on other rights, remedies and proceedings
(1) This Act does not limit or affect any right, remedy or proceeding under any other Act or law.(2) No proceedings taken under this Act interfere with or lessen any right or remedy under any other Act or law, but no person is, by virtue of this subsection, liable to be punished twice for the same offence.(3) A reference in this section to a right includes, for example, a right to restrict or prevent, or obtain damages in respect of, pollution.
323 Regulations
(1) The Governor may make regulations, not inconsistent with this Act, for or with respect to any matter that by this Act is required or permitted to be prescribed or that is necessary or convenient to be prescribed for carrying out or giving effect to this Act.(2) In particular, the regulations may make provision for or with respect to the matters set out in Schedule 2.(3) The regulations may create offences punishable by a penalty not exceeding—(a) 250 penalty units in the case of an individual, or(b) 500 penalty units in the case of a corporation.(4) The regulations may adopt any document (including for example a code of practice) as in force from time to time.(5) Nothing in this section limits or restricts the conditions that may be attached to a licence, but any such condition that is inconsistent with a regulation has no force or effect.(5A) Despite subsection (5), a condition of a licence may be inconsistent with a requirement of the same kind in a regulation, but only to the extent that the condition imposes a more stringent requirement than the regulation.(6) Section 12 of the Food Act 2003 does not apply to regulations or other instruments made under this Act.(7) Without limiting the power to make regulations, the regulations may contain provisions of a savings or transitional nature consequent on the making of a regulation for the purposes of section 6 (3).s 323: Am 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [16]; 2003 No 43, Sch 1.6; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [140]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[72] [73].
324 Repeals
The Acts specified in Schedule 3 are repealed.
325 (Repealed)
s 325: Rep 1999 No 85, Sch 4.
326 Savings, transitional and other provisions
Schedule 5 has effect.
327 Review of Act
(1) The Minister is to review this Act to determine whether the policy objectives of the Act remain valid and whether the terms of the Act remain appropriate for securing those objectives.(2) The review is to be undertaken as soon as possible after the period of 5 years from the date of assent to this Act.(3) A report on the outcome of the review is to be tabled in each House of Parliament within 12 months after the end of the period of 5 years.
Schedule 1 Scheduled activities
(Section 5)
Note—
Parts 1 and 2 of this Schedule list the activities that are scheduled activities for the purposes of this Act (see sections 48 and 49). Part 3 defines various words and expressions that are used in Parts 1 and 2.
Part 1 Premises-based activities
1 Application of Part
(1) For the purposes of section 48, any activity that is declared by this Part to be a scheduled activity is taken to be an activity for which a licence is required for the premises at which it is carried out (the activity is premises-based).Note—Section 48 (2) provides that the occupier of premises at which such an activity is carried out is guilty of an offence unless he or she holds a licence that authorises the activity to be carried out at those premises.(2) However, such an activity is not premises-based if it is carried out by means of mobile plant.Note—But see clause 47 by operation of which activities carried out by means of mobile plant are declared for the purposes of section 49.
2 Agricultural processing
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—dairy processing, meaning the processing of dairy produce as part of the production of milk, evaporated or condensed milk, buttermilk, cream, cheese, butter, ice-cream or similar products.general agricultural processing, meaning the processing of agricultural produce (otherwise than as part of the manufacture of beer, wine, spirits, vinegar, acetic acid or similar products), but excluding—(a) dairy processing and grape processing, and(b) the processing of agricultural produce by means of mobile processing operations.grape processing, meaning the processing of grapes (otherwise than by distilling) as part of the manufacture of wine, spirits, vinegar, acetic acid or similar products.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.(3) In this clause—agricultural produce includes seeds, fruit, vegetables and other plant material, but excludes dairy produce and grapes.process includes crush, juice, grind, gin, mill, separate, wash, sort, coat, roll, press, steam, flake, comb, homogenise and pasteurise.Table
3 Aquaculture and mariculture
(1) This clause applies to aquaculture and mariculture, each meaning the commercial production of marine, estuarine or freshwater organisms, including aquatic animals and plants but excluding bivalve molluscs and seaweed propagules, being an activity that involves—(a) supplemental feeding in tanks or artificial waterbodies, and(b) the discharge of effluent, liquid sludge or other waste water into natural waterbodies, including discharge by means of a pipe, drain, drainage depression, canal or other form of conveyance.(2) Each activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.(3) In this clause, natural waterbody includes any river, stream, lake, lagoon, swamp, wetland or watercourse (including any natural watercourse that has been artificially modified) or tidal waters (including the sea).
4 (Repealed)
5 Brewing and distilling
(1) This clause applies to the activities of brewing and distilling, each meaning the production of alcohol or alcoholic products (otherwise than for the manufacture of wine, vinegar, acetic acid or similar products).(2) Each activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has a capacity to produce more than 30 tonnes of alcohol or alcoholic products per day or 10,000 tonnes of alcohol or alcoholic products per year.
6 Cement or lime works
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—cement or lime handling, meaning the handling of cement, fly ash, powdered lime (other than agricultural lime) or any other similar dry cement products, but not if the handling occurs as part of the production of pre-mixed concrete (concrete batching).cement or lime production, meaning the production of cement or lime—(a) by heating argillaceous or calcareous materials to produce cement clinkers, grinding clinkers or slags, or(b) by hydrating quicklime.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
7 Ceramic works
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—ceramic waste generation, meaning ceramics production or glass production that involves having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).ceramics production, meaning the production of ceramics (other than glass), including products such as bricks, tiles, pipes, pottery goods or refractories manufactured through a firing process.glass production, meaning the production of glass by melting.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
8 Chemical production
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—agricultural fertiliser (inorganic) production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, inorganic (other than phosphate) plant fertilisers.agricultural fertiliser (phosphate) production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, phosphate plant fertilisers.ammonium nitrate production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, ammonium nitrate for any purpose, including fertilisers or explosives.battery production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, batteries containing acid or alkali and metal plates.carbon black production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, carbon black.chemical production waste generation, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, any chemical substance that involves having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).dangerous goods production, meaning the commercial production, blending, recovering or using of, or research into, dangerous goods (other than toxic substances, explosives or radioactive substances).explosives production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, explosives for industrial, extractive and mining purposes or for the production of ammunition, fireworks or fuel propellants, but not including—(a) ammonium nitrate production, or(b) the production of explosives for mining purposes, when carried out at a mine.paints/polishes/adhesives production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, paints, paint solvents, pigments, dyes, printing inks, industrial polishes, adhesives or sealants., meaning the commercial production (otherwise than by simple blending) of, or research into, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, rodenticides, nematocides, miticides, fumigants or related products., meaning the commercial production (otherwise than by simple blending) of, or research into, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, rodenticides, nematocides, miticides, fumigants or related products that are toxic substances.petrochemical production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, petrochemicals and petrochemical products.pharmaceutical and veterinary products production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, pharmaceutical or veterinary products that are toxic substances.plastic resins production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, synthetic plastic resins.plastics reprocessing, meaning the reprocessing of plastics otherwise than by simple melting and reforming.rubber products/tyres production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, rubber products or rubber tyres (including tyre retreading).soap and detergents production, meaning the commercial production (otherwise than by simple blending) of, or research into, soaps or detergents (including any domestic, institutional or industrial soaps or detergent activity).soap and detergents (toxic substances) production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, soaps or detergents that contain toxic substances (including any domestic, institutional or industrial soaps or detergent activity).synthetic rubber production, meaning the commercial production of, or research into, synthetic rubber.toxic substance production, meaning the commercial production, blending, recovering or using of, or research into, toxic substances, but not including—(a) pesticides and related products (toxic substances) production, or(b) pharmaceutical and veterinary products production, or(c) soap and detergents (toxic substances) production.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
9 Chemical storage
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—general chemicals storage, meaning the storage or packaging in containers, bulk storage facilities or stockpiles of any chemical substance classified as a dangerous good in the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code, other than the following—(a) petroleum or petroleum products,(b) radioactive substances within the meaning of the Protection from Harmful Radiation Act 1990.on-site generated chemical waste storage means the storage of any chemical substance produced on site that is prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).petroleum products storage, meaning the storage or packaging of petroleum or petroleum products in containers, bulk storage facilities or stockpiles.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
9A (Repealed)
10 Coal works
(1) This clause applies to coal works, meaning any activity (other than coke production) that involves storing, loading or handling coal (whether at any coal loader, conveyor, washery or reject dump or elsewhere) at an existing coal mine or on a separate coal industry site.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it has a capacity to handle more than 500 tonnes per day of coal, or(b) it has a capacity to store more than 5,000 tonnes of coal (not including storage within a closed container or building).
11 Coke production
(1) This clause applies to coke production, meaning the production of coke from coal (including by quenching, cutting, crushing or grinding).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it has a capacity to handle more than 500 tonnes per day of coke or coal, or(b) it has a capacity to store more than 5,000 tonnes of coke or coal (not including storage within a closed container or building).
12 Composting
(1) This clause applies to composting, meaning the aerobic or anaerobic biological conversion of organics into humus-like products—(a) by methods such as bioconversion, biodigestion or vermiculture, or(b) by size reduction of organics by shredding, chipping, mulching or grinding.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) where it takes place inside the regulated area, or takes place outside the regulated area but receives organics from inside the regulated area (whether or not it also receives organics from outside the regulated area)—(i) it has on site at any time more than 200 tonnes of organics received from off site, or(ii) it receives from off site more than 5,000 tonnes per year of non-putrescible organics or more than 200 tonnes per year of putrescible organics, or(b) where it takes place outside the regulated area and does not receive organics from inside the regulated area—(i) it has on site at any time more than 2,000 tonnes of organics received from off site, or(ii) it receives from off site more than 5,000 tonnes per year of non-putrescible organics or more than 200 tonnes per year of putrescible organics.(3) For the purposes of this clause, 1 cubic metre of organics is taken to weigh 0.5 tonnes.
13 Concrete works
(1) This clause applies to concrete works, meaning the production of concrete products, but does not include the production of pre-mixed concrete (concrete batching).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has a capacity to produce more than 30,000 tonnes per year of concrete products.
14 Container reconditioning
(1) This clause applies to container reconditioning, meaning—(a) the receiving from off site of containers (including metal, plastic or glass drums, bottles, cylinders or intermediate bulk containers) previously used for the transport or storage of and containing residual quantities of—(i) substances of Class 1, 3, 4, 5 or 8 within the meaning of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code, or(ii) substances to which Division 6.2 of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code applies, and(b) the reconditioning, recovering, treating or storing of such containers.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it involves having more than 100 such containers on site at any time.
15 Contaminated soil treatment
(1) This clause applies to contaminated soil treatment, meaning the on site or off site treatment of contaminated soil (including, in either case, incineration or storage of contaminated soil but excluding excavation for treatment at another site).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) in any case, it has the capacity to treat more than 1,000 cubic metres per year of contaminated soil received from off site, or(b) where it treats contaminated soil originating exclusively on site, it has a capacity—(i) to incinerate more than 1,000 cubic metres per year of contaminated soil, or(ii) to treat (otherwise than by incineration) and store more than 30,000 cubic metres of contaminated soil, or(iii) to disturb more than an aggregate area of 3 hectares of contaminated soil.
15A Contaminated groundwater treatment
(1) This clause applies to contaminated groundwater treatment meaning the treatment of contaminated water.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has the capacity to treat more than 100 megalitres per year of contaminated water.
16 Crushing, grinding or separating
(1) This clause applies to crushing, grinding or separating, meaning the processing of materials (including sand, gravel, rock or minerals, but not including waste of any description) by crushing, grinding or separating them into different sizes.(1A) However, this clause does not apply to the processing of materials by crushing, grinding or separating that occurs as part of an activity that is declared to be a scheduled activity by—(a) clause 33 (Railway activities—railway infrastructure construction), or(b) clause 35 (Road construction).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has a capacity to process more than 150 tonnes of materials per day or 30,000 tonnes of materials per year.
17 Electricity generation
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—electricity works (wind farms), meaning the generation of electricity by means of wind turbines.general electricity works, meaning the generation of electricity by means of electricity plant that, wherever situated, is based on, or uses, any energy source other than wind power or solar power.metropolitan electricity works (gas turbines), meaning the generation of electricity by means of electricity plant—(a) that is based on, or uses, a gas turbine, and(b) that is situated in the metropolitan area or in the local government area of Port Stephens, Maitland, Cessnock, Singleton, Wollondilly or Kiama.metropolitan electricity works (internal combustion engines), meaning the generation of electricity by means of electricity plant—(a) that is based on, or uses, an internal combustion engine, and(b) that is situated in the metropolitan area or in the local government area of Port Stephens, Maitland, Cessnock, Singleton, Wollondilly or Kiama.(1A) However, this clause does not apply to the generation of electricity by means of electricity plant that is emergency stand-by plant operating for less than 200 hours per year.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
18 Energy recovery
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—energy recovery from general waste, meaning the receiving from off site of, and the recovery of energy from, any waste (other than hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste).energy recovery from hazardous and other waste, meaning the receiving from on site or off site of, and the recovery of energy from, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste.(2) However, this clause does not apply to any of the following—(a) the processing of contaminated soil,(b) container reconditioning,(c) the recovery of gases that are dangerous goods of Class 2 within the meaning of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code.(3) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table, and(b) in the case of an activity that meets the criteria to be the scheduled activity of waste disposal (thermal treatment)—an exemption granted under Part 9 of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014 exempts the person carrying out the activity from the requirements of section 48 (2) as they apply to waste disposal (thermal treatment).(4) For the purposes of this clause, 1 litre of waste is taken to weigh 1 kilogram.Table
18A Environmentally hazardous chemicals
(1) This clause applies to the following (each an environmentally hazardous activity)—(a) an activity regulated by a chemical control order in relation to a chemical,(b) an activity—(i) described in this schedule, whether or not the activity is also declared to be a scheduled activity, and(ii) involving the use or manufacture of a Schedule 6 or 7 chemical that is subject to a restriction or risk management measure in the NSW IChEMS register.(2) An environmentally hazardous activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.
19 Extractive activities
(1) This clause applies to extractive activities, meaning the extraction (by any method, including by excavation, dredging, blasting or tunnelling) or processing of extractive materials.(2) However, this clause does not apply to the following—(a) cut and fill operations, or the excavation of foundations or earthworks, that are ancillary to development that is subject to development consent or approval under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979,(b) extractive activities to which clauses 33 or 35 applies.(3) The activities to which this clause applies are declared to be scheduled activities if they involve the extraction or processing of more than—(a) for maintenance dredging of a navigation channel for vessels carried out by or on behalf of a public authority—30,000 cubic metres of extractive materials per year, or(b) otherwise—30,000 tonnes extractive materials per year, where 0.65 cubic metres of extractive material that is wet is taken to weigh 1 tonne.(4) For the purposes of this clause, if more than 30,000 tonnes of extractive material is transported in a year from premises at which extraction occurs, more than 30,000 tonnes of extractive material are taken to have been extracted in that year at the premises.(5) In this clause, extractive materials means clay, sand, soil, stone, gravel, rock, sandstone or similar substances that are not minerals within the meaning of the Mining Act 1992.
20 Helicopter-related activities
(1) This clause applies to a , meaning the landing, taking-off or parking of helicopters (including the use of terminals and the use of buildings for the parking, servicing or maintenance of helicopters), being an activity—(a) that has an intended use of more than 30 flight movements per week (where take-off and landing are separate flight movements), andbut not including an activity that is carried out exclusively for the purposes of emergency aeromedical evacuation, retrieval or rescue.(b) that is conducted within 1 kilometre of a dwelling not associated with the landing, taking-off or parking of helicopters,(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.
21 Irrigated agriculture
(1) This clause applies to irrigated agriculture, meaning the irrigation activity of an irrigation corporation within the meaning of the Water Management Act 2000, but not including the irrigation activity of individual irrigators in the area of operations of any such irrigation corporation.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.
22 Livestock intensive activities
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—animal accommodation, meaning the accommodation of animals for the purposes of sale, auction or exchange or for transportation by road, rail or ship.bird accommodation, meaning the accommodation of birds for commercial production.cattle, sheep or horse accommodation, meaning the accommodation of cattle, sheep or horses in a confinement area for rearing or fattening (wholly or substantially) on prepared or manufactured feed (excluding facilities for drought or similar emergency relief).dairy animal accommodation, meaning accommodation—(a) of animals used for the production of milk (dairy animals), and(b) in free stall complexes, feed pads, loading pads, milking sheds or stand-off areas, but not in pasture, calving areas or calving sheds.pig accommodation, meaning the accommodation of pigs for commercial production.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
23 Livestock processing activities
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—general animal products production, meaning the manufacture of products derived from the slaughter of animals occurring in plants producing products such as hides, adhesives, pet food, gelatine, fertiliser or meat products.greasy wool or fleece processing, meaning the scouring, topping or carbonising of greasy wool or fleeces.rendering or fat extraction, meaning the manufacture of products derived from the slaughter of animals occurring in rendering or fat extraction plants.slaughtering or processing animals, meaning the slaughtering or processing of animals (including poultry and fish).tanneries or fellmongeries, meaning the manufacture of products derived from the slaughter of animals occurring in tanneries or fellmongeries (that is, operations that process animal skins or other animal products to produce leather or other similar products).(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
24 (Repealed)
25 Marinas and boat repairs
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—boat construction/maintenance (dry/floating docks), meaning the use of dry docks or floating docks for the construction, repair and maintenance of vessels.boat construction/maintenance (general), meaning the use of facilities (whether water-based or land-based) for the construction, repair and maintenance of vessels (other than dry docks, floating docks and facilities not having frontage to a waterway).boat mooring and storage, meaning the use of pontoons, jetties, piers or other structures (whether water-based or land-based) designed or utilised to provide moorings or dry storage (other than swing moorings and facilities not having frontage to a waterway).(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.(3) In this clause, waterway means any river, stream, lake, lagoon, swamp, wetlands, unconfined surface water, natural or artificial watercourse, dam or tidal waters (including the sea).Table
26 Metallurgical activities
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—aluminium production (alumina), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly alumina to produce aluminium products.aluminium production (scrap metal), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly scrap aluminium to produce aluminium products.iron or steel production (iron ore), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly iron ore to produce iron or steel products.iron or steel production (scrap metal), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly scrap iron or steel to produce iron or steel products.metal coating, meaning the coating of metal by any method (including spray painting, powder coating, enamelling, electroplating, anodising and galvanising, but not the coating of metal on vehicles or vessels).metal processing, meaning the processing of metals by heating, rolling, melting or casting metal otherwise than in the course of some other activity to which this clause applies.metal waste generation, meaning any activity that involves—(a) the refinement, processing or coating of metal, and(b) having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).non-ferrous metal production (ore concentrates), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly ore concentrates (including copper, zinc and lead ores, but not iron ore or alumina) to produce non-ferrous metal products.non-ferrous metal production (scrap metal), meaning the refinement or processing of mainly scrap metal (including copper, zinc and lead, but not iron, steel or aluminium) to produce non-ferrous metal products.scrap metal processing, meaning the crushing, grinding, shredding or sorting (but not smelting) of scrap metal of any kind.(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
27 Mineral processing
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—mineral processing, meaning the processing, or the commercial production or extraction, of ores (using methods including chemical, electrical, magnetic, gravity or physical-chemical).mineral waste generation, meaning mineral processing that involves having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
28 Mining for coal
(1) This clause applies to mining for coal, meaning the mining, processing or handling of coal (including tailings and chitter) at underground mines or open cut mines.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it has a capacity to produce more than 500 tonnes of coal per day, or(b) it has disturbed, is disturbing or will disturb a total surface area of more than 4 hectares of land by—(i) clearing or excavating, or(ii) constructing dams, ponds, drains, roads, railways or conveyors, or(iii) storing or depositing overburden or coal (including tailings and chitter).
29 Mining for minerals
(1) This clause applies to mining for minerals, meaning the mining, processing or handling of minerals (within the meaning of the Mining Act 1992), other than coal, at mines.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has disturbed, is disturbing or will disturb a total surface area of more than 4 hectares of land (or, in the case of a gold mine, more than 1 hectare of land) by—(a) clearing or excavating, or(b) constructing dams, ponds, drains, roads, railways or conveyors, or(c) storing or depositing overburden, ore or its products or tailings.
30 Paper or pulp production
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—paper or pulp production, meaning the manufacturing of paper, paper pulp or pulp products.paper or pulp waste generation, meaning a paper or pulp activity that involves having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).(2) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.Table
31 Petroleum exploration, assessment and production
(1) This clause applies to petroleum exploration, assessment and production, meaning the following—(a) exploratory activities to identify petroleum reserves,(b) any testing or sampling carried out in relation to that exploration,(c) the production of petroleum.(2) However, this clause does not apply to any of the following activities if the activity is carried out on land other than land in an environmentally sensitive area of State significance—(a) geological mapping and airborne surveying,(b) sampling and coring using hand-held equipment,(c) geophysical (including seismic) surveying and downhole logging,(d) accessing of areas by vehicle that does not involve the construction of an access way such as a track or road,(e) soil sampling by machinery,(f) constructing, maintaining or using equipment to monitor subsidence, noise, groundwater or the weather,(g) constructing, maintaining or using roads consistent with best practice industry standards as outlined in the document entitled Managing urban stormwater: Soils and construction (Volume 2C: Unsealed roads), published by the Department of Environment and Climate Change, dated January 2008,(h) recovering, obtaining or removing coal seam gas in the course of coal mining.(3) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.(4) In this clause—environmentally sensitive area of State significance has the same meaning as in State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries) 2007.petroleum has the same meaning as in the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991.
31A Petroleum products and fuel production
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—petroleum products and fuel production (general)means the production of petroleum products by—(a) refining, distillation, fermentation, esterification, pyrolysis, cracking or hydrogenation, orNote—Refining may occur in the processing of crude petroleum or shale oil, fermentation in the production of ethanol and esterification in the production of biodiesel.(b) another means, other than blending or mixing, involving the chemical transformation of hydrocarbons or the separation, purification or liquefaction of hydrocarbon mixtures.petroleum products and fuel production (blending or mixing) means the production of petroleum products by blending or mixing.Note—Blending may occur in the production of lubricants and fuels.(2) However, this clause does not apply to—(a) the activity of blending a fuel with ethanol or biodiesel if the activity is carried on at a petroleum fuel storage terminal and the occupier of the premises is, at the time the activity is carried on, the holder of an environment protection licence authorising the activity of petroleum products storage, or(b) the activity of blending additives with fuel to produce petroleum products if the activity is—(i) carried on at a service station and the petroleum products are sold only at the service station, or(ii) carried on at a petroleum fuel storage terminal and the occupier of the premises is, at the time the activity is carried on, the holder of an environment protection licence authorising the activity of petroleum products storage.(3) Each activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if there is capacity to produce more than 100 tonnes of petroleum products per year.(4) In this clause—petroleum products include aviation fuel, petrol, kerosene, mineral turpentine, fuel oils, lubricants, wax, bitumen, liquefied gas and the precursors to petrochemicals, for example, acetylene, ethylene, toluene and xylene.petroleum products storage has the same meaning as in clause 9.service station means premises that are used primarily for the fuelling of motor vehicles involving the sale by retail of petrol, oil or other petroleum products.
32 Printing, packaging and visual communications
(1) This clause applies to printing, packaging and visual communications waste generation, meaning any printing, packaging or visual communications activity that involves having on site any prescribed waste (that is, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste, or any combination of them).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it involves having on site at any time more than 5 tonnes of prescribed waste, not including excluded material (where 1,000 litres of liquid is taken to weigh 1 tonne).
33 Railway activities—railway infrastructure construction
(1) This clause applies to railway activities—railway infrastructure construction, meaning the following—(a) the construction of railway infrastructure (including the widening or rerouting of existing railway infrastructure) and any related tunnels, earthworks and cuttings,(b) any extraction of materials necessary for that construction,(c) any on site processing (including crushing, grinding or separating) of any extracted materials or other materials used in that construction.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if the activity results in one or more of the following—(a) the extraction or processing (over the life of the construction) of more than—(i) 50,000 tonnes of materials in the case of premises in the regulated area or in the local government areas of Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Goulburn Mulwaree, Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional or Snowy Monaro Regional, or(ii) 150,000 tonnes of material in any other case,(b) the construction of new railway track that is—(i) in the metropolitan area—3 kilometres or more in length, or(ii) outside the metropolitan area—5 kilometres or more in length.(3) For the purposes of calculating the length of a railway track, individual tracks constructed alongside one another are not to be added together.(4) In this clause—railway infrastructure includes, but is not limited to, the following—(a) railway tracks,(b) sleepers and ballasts,(c) embankments, bridges, tunnels and over track structures,(d) signalling equipment.
33A Railway activities—railway infrastructure operations
(1) This clause applies to railway activities—railway infrastructure operations, meaning the operation or the on-site repair, maintenance or replacement of existing railway infrastructure.(2) However, this clause does not apply to any of the following—(a) railway activities—railway infrastructure construction to which clause 33 applies,(b) the operation of rolling stock to which clause 33B applies,(c) the operation or on-site repair, maintenance or replacement of existing railway infrastructure used solely by any of the following—(i) light railway vehicles, including trams,(ii) inclined railway vehicles,(iii) monorail vehicles,(iv) railway vehicles that are used solely for heritage purposes,(d) the operation of signalling, communication or train control systems,(e) any activity at any of the following places—(i) a railway station building (including platforms and offices),(ii) a railway workshop,(iii) a freight depot or centre,(iv) a railway fuel depot.(3) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it involves a continuous or connected length of track greater than 30 kilometres that is operated by the same person.(4) For the purposes of calculating the length of a railway track, individual tracks constructed alongside one another are not to be added together.(5) In this clause, railway infrastructure has the same meaning as in clause 33.
33B Railway activities—rolling stock operations
(1) This clause applies to railway activities—rolling stock operations, meaning the operation of rolling stock.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it is carried out on railway infrastructure, the operation of which is a scheduled activity by virtue of clause 33A.(3) In this clause—rolling stock means railway vehicles used or intended to be used to transport passengers or freight for reward but does not include—(a) railway vehicles used, or intended to be used, solely for heritage purposes, or(b) railway vehicles used, or intended to be used, to construct or maintain railway infrastructure.
34 Resource recovery
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—recovery of general waste, meaning the receiving of waste (other than hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste) from off site and its processing, otherwise than for the recovery of energy.recovery of hazardous and other waste, meaning the receiving of hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or special waste (other than asbestos waste or waste tyres) from off site and its processing, otherwise than for the recovery of energy.recovery of waste oil, meaning the receiving of waste oil from off site and its processing, otherwise than for the recovery of energy.recovery of waste tyres, meaning the receiving of waste tyres from off site and their processing, otherwise than for the recovery of energy.(2) However, this clause does not apply to the recovery of stormwater or the processing of any of the following—(a) contaminated soil,(b) contaminated groundwater,(c) sewage within a sewage treatment system (whether or not that system is licensed).(2A) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste at premises from off site and its processing if—(a) the waste is to be sold or supplied from those premises as landscaping material (that is, as lawful soil amendments or for landscape gardening) and nothing else occurs in respect of the waste at the premises other than blending, mixing, packaging or storage of the waste for the purpose of that sale or supply, and(b) the waste is virgin excavated natural material or meets all of the conditions of a resource recovery order at the time it is received, and(c) the waste does not include any liquid waste or biosolids that are not general solid waste (non-putrescible), and(d) no other activity is carried out at the premises that would result in the premises being a scheduled waste facility within the meaning of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014.(2B) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste at premises from off site and its processing if the only waste received from off site is untreated wood waste (other than sawdust or wood shavings) and that wood waste is processed by being cut or split into smaller pieces (other than by chipping) for sale as firewood.(3) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table, and(b) either—(i) less than 50% by weight of the waste received in any year requires disposal after processing, or(ii) an exemption granted under Part 9 of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014 exempts the person carrying out the activity from the requirements of section 48 (2) as they apply to waste disposal (application to land), waste disposal (thermal treatment), waste processing (non-thermal treatment) and waste storage.Table
35 Road construction
(1) This clause applies to road construction, meaning the following—(a) the construction of roads (including the widening or rerouting of existing roads) and any related tunnels, earthworks and cuttings,(b) any extraction of materials necessary for that construction,(c) any on site processing (including crushing, grinding or separating) of any extracted materials or other materials used in that construction.(2) However, this clause does not apply to—(a) the maintenance or operation of any road, or(b) the replacement of part of an existing road.(3) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if the activity results in one or more of the following—(a) the extraction or processing (over the life of the construction) of more than—(i) 50,000 tonnes of materials in the case of premises in the regulated area or in the local government areas of Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Goulburn Mulwaree, Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional or Snowy Monaro Regional, or(ii) 150,000 tonnes of material in any other case,(b) the existence of 4 or more traffic lanes (other than bicycle lanes or lanes used for entry or exit) for a continuous length of at least—(i) 1 kilometre—where the road is in a metropolitan area and is classified, or proposed to be classified, as a freeway or tollway under the Roads Act 1993, or(ii) 3 kilometres—where the road is in a metropolitan area and is classified, or proposed to be classified, as a main road (but not a freeway or tollway) under the Roads Act 1993, or(iii) 5 kilometres—where the road is not in a metropolitan area and is classified, or proposed to be classified, as a main road, freeway or tollway under the Roads Act 1993.
35A Road tunnel emissions
(1) This clause applies to the emission into the air of any air impurity by way of a ventilation stack from any of the following road tunnels—(a) the Cross City Tunnel, being the tunnel connecting New South Head Road at Rushcutters Bay with the Western Distributor at Darling Harbour,(b) the Eastern Distributor Tunnel, being the tunnel connecting the Cahill Expressway at Woolloomooloo to Southern Cross Drive at Kensington,(c) the Lane Cove Tunnel, being the tunnel connecting Epping Road at Mowbray Road West with the Gore Hill Freeway,(d) the M5 East Tunnel, being the tunnel that forms part of the M5 East Motorway between Bexley Road, Earlwood and Marsh Street, Arncliffe,(e) the M4 East Tunnel, being the tunnel that forms part of the WestConnex M4 East Project on the M4 East Motorway between Underwood Road, Homebush to near Alt Street, Haberfield,(f) the M8 Tunnel, being the tunnel that forms part of the WestConnex New M5 Project between the M5 East Motorway at Kingsgrove (east of King Georges Road, Beverly Hills) and St Peters,(g) the M4–M5 Link Tunnel, being the tunnel that forms part of the WestConnex M4–M5 Link Project between the M4 East Motorway at Haberfield and the M8 Tunnel at St Peters and the Rozelle Interchange,(h) the NorthConnex Tunnel, being the tunnel connecting the M1 Pacific Motorway at Wahroonga and the Hills M2 Motorway at West Pennant Hills,(i) the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, being the tunnel connecting the Warringah Freeway at North Sydney and the Cahill Expressway at the entrance to the Domain Tunnel,(j) the Western Harbour Tunnel, being the tunnel that forms part of the Western Harbour Tunnel and Warringah Freeway Upgrade Project connecting the M4–M5 Link at Rozelle to the Warringah Freeway at North Sydney,(k) the M6, being the M6 Tunnel connecting the M8 Motorway at Arncliffe to President Avenue at Kogarah.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.(3) The maximum number of ventilation stacks to which a single licence can apply is 10. If a road tunnel has more than 10 ventilation stacks it is to be treated as more than one road tunnel and a separate licence is required for each of those road tunnels.
36 Sewage treatment
(1) This clause applies to sewage treatment, meaning the operation of sewage treatment systems (including the treatment works, pumping stations, sewage overflow structures and the reticulation system) that involve the discharge or likely discharge of wastes or by-products to land or waters.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has a processing capacity that exceeds—(a) 2,500 persons equivalent, as determined in accordance with guidelines established by an EPA Gazettal notice, orwhichever is the greater.(b) 750 kilolitres per day,
37 Shipping in bulk
(1) This clause applies to shipping in bulk, meaning the operation of wharves and associated facilities for the bulk loading or unloading of agricultural crop products, rock, ores, minerals, chemicals, sand, soil, clay, sandstone, gravel, stone or similar substances into or from vessels (except where they are contained in shipping containers).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if the facilities have a capacity to handle—(a) more than 500 tonnes of agricultural crop products, rock, ores, minerals, chemicals, sand, soil, clay, sandstone, gravel, stone or similar substances per day, or(b) more than 50,000 tonnes of agricultural crop products, rock, ores, minerals, chemicals, sand, soil, clay, sandstone, gravel, stone or similar substances per year.
38 Sterilisation activities
(1) This clause applies to sterilisation activities, meaning the sterilisation of products or equipment by means that include the use of ethylene oxide.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it involves the use of more than one tonne of ethylene oxide per year.
39 Waste disposal (application to land)
(1) This clause applies to waste disposal by application to land, meaning the application to land of waste received from off site, including (but not limited to) application by any of the following methods—(a) spraying, spreading or depositing on the land,(b) ploughing, injecting or mixing into the land,(c) filling, raising, reclaiming or contouring the land.(2) However, this clause does not apply to an activity that involves any of the following—(a) sites inside the regulated area that, over any period of time, receive from off site a total of no more than 200 tonnes of the following waste (and no other waste)—(i) building and demolition waste only,(ii) building and demolition waste mixed with virgin excavated natural material,(b) sites outside the regulated area that, over any period of time, receive from off site a total of no more than 200 tonnes of the following waste (and no other waste)—(i) building and demolition waste only,being waste generated inside the regulated area,(ii) building and demolition waste mixed with virgin excavated natural material,(c) sites outside the regulated area that, over any period of time, receive from off site a total of no more than 20,000 tonnes of the following waste (and no other waste)—(i) building and demolition waste only,being waste generated outside the regulated area,(ii) building and demolition waste mixed with virgin excavated natural material,(d) sites that receive from off site no more than 5 tonnes of waste tyres per year or 500 waste tyres in total over any period (and no other waste),(e) sites where only virgin excavated natural material is received from off site and applied to land,(f) sites that are outside the regulated area, but only if—(i) the site is owned by and operated by or on behalf of a local council, and(ii) the site was in existence immediately before 28 April 2008 and was not required to be licensed before that date, and(iii) details required under clause 47 of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005 were provided, in relation to the site, before 28 April 2008, and(iv) the site receives from off site less than 5,000 tonnes per year of waste, and(v) that waste has been generated outside the regulated area and consists only of general solid waste (putrescible), general solid waste (non-putrescible), clinical and related waste, asbestos waste, grease trap waste or waste tyres (or any combination of them).(3) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.(4) For the purposes of this clause, 1 litre of waste is taken to weigh 1 kilogram.
40 Waste disposal (thermal treatment)
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—thermal treatment of general waste, meaning the receiving of waste (other than hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste) from off site and its processing by thermal treatment.thermal treatment of hazardous and other waste, meaning the receiving of hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste from off site and its processing by thermal treatment.(2) However, this clause does not apply to the treatment of any of the following—(a) contaminated soil,(b) contaminated groundwater,(c) sewage within a sewage treatment system (whether or not that system is licensed).(3) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.(3A) However, this clause does not apply to the destruction of drug exhibit waste if the activity is carried out in compliance with the following requirements—(a) the combustion chamber used for the destruction of drug exhibit waste and its casing is as airtight as reasonably possible,(b) during the destruction of drug exhibit waste in that combustion chamber, combustion gases within the chamber are at or above 850°C for a minimum of 2 seconds,(c) the plant used for the destruction is fitted with monitoring and control equipment to monitor and ensure compliance with paragraph (b) and that equipment is maintained in working condition and used during any destruction of drug exhibit waste,(d) drug exhibit waste is destroyed only if it is contained in bags made of polyethylene, or polypropylene, that is chlorine-free,(e) no more than 50 kilograms of drug exhibit waste is placed into, or otherwise contained in, the combustion chamber for destruction at any one time.(4) For the purposes of this clause, 1 litre of waste is taken to weigh 1 kilogram.(5) In this clause—drug exhibit waste means any prohibited drug (within the meaning of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985) that—(a) was collected, seized or confiscated by, or surrendered to, the NSW Police Force, and(b) is no longer required by the NSW Police Force.Table
41 Waste processing (non-thermal treatment)
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—non-thermal treatment of general waste, meaning the receiving of waste (other than hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste) from off site and its processing otherwise than by thermal treatment.non-thermal treatment of hazardous and other waste, meaning the receiving of hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or special waste (other than asbestos waste or waste tyres) from off site and its processing otherwise than by thermal treatment.non-thermal treatment of liquid waste, meaning the receiving of liquid waste (other than waste oil) from off site and its processing otherwise than by thermal treatment.non-thermal treatment of waste oil, meaning the receiving of waste oil from off site and its processing otherwise than by thermal treatment.non-thermal treatment of waste tyres, meaning the receiving of waste tyres from off site and their processing otherwise than by thermal treatment.(2) However this clause does not apply to the processing of any of the following—(a) stormwater,(b) contaminated soil,(c) contaminated groundwater,(d) sewage within a sewage treatment system (whether or not that system is licensed).(2AA) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste at premises from off site and its processing if—(a) the waste is to be sold or supplied from those premises as landscaping material (that is, as lawful soil amendments or for landscape gardening) and nothing else occurs in respect of the waste at the premises other than blending, mixing, packaging or storage of the waste for the purpose of that sale or supply, and(b) the waste is virgin excavated natural material or meets all of the conditions of a resource recovery order at the time it is received, and(c) the waste does not include any liquid waste or biosolids that are not general solid waste (non-putrescible), and(d) no other activity is carried out at the premises that would result in the premises being a scheduled waste facility within the meaning of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014.(2AB) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste at premises from off site and its processing if the only waste received from off site is untreated wood waste (other than sawdust or wood shavings) and that wood waste is processed by being cut or split into smaller pieces (other than by chipping) for sale as firewood.(2A) The activity of non-thermal treatment of liquid waste is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria for that activity set out in Column 2 of the Table to this clause.(3) Each other activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table, and(b) 50% or more by weight of the total amount of waste received per year requires disposal after processing.(4) For the purposes of this clause, 1 litre of waste is taken to weigh 1 kilogram.Table
42 Waste storage
(1) This clause applies to waste storage, meaning the receiving from off site and storing (including storage for transfer) of waste.(1A) Waste is taken to be stored at premises for the purposes of this clause even if the waste is only being transferred at those premises between units of rolling stock, motor vehicles or trailers.(2) However, this clause does not apply to any of the following—(a) the storage of stormwater,(b) the storage of up to 60 tonnes at any time of any of the following kinds of waste (but not when accompanied by any other kind of waste)—(i) drilling mud,(ii) grease trap waste,(iii) waste lead acid batteries,(iv) waste oil,(c) the storage of sewage within a sewage treatment system,(d) the storage and transfer of liquid waste that is generated and treated on site prior to sewer discharge, or lawful discharge to waters.(2A) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste from off site and its storage if—(a) the waste is to be sold or supplied from those premises as landscaping material (that is, as lawful soil amendments or for landscape gardening) and nothing else occurs in respect of the waste at the premises other than storage of the waste for the purpose of that sale or supply, and(b) the waste is virgin excavated natural material or meets all of the conditions of a resource recovery order at the time it is received, and(c) the waste does not include any liquid waste or biosolids that are not general solid waste (non-putrescible), and(d) no other activity is carried out at the premises that would result in the premises being a scheduled waste facility within the meaning of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014.(2B) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of virgin excavated natural material from off site and its storage if the only waste received is virgin excavated natural material.(2C) This clause also does not apply to the receiving of waste at premises from off site and its storage if the only waste received from off site is untreated wood waste (other than sawdust or wood shavings) and that wood waste has been cut or split into smaller pieces (other than by chipping) as firewood.(3) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) more than the following amount of hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, liquid waste or special waste, other than waste tyres, is stored on the premises at any time—(i) for a community recycling centre—12 tonnes,(ii) for premises to which an environment protection licence does not otherwise apply, if the waste has been collected as part of a household chemical clean-out event—80 tonnes,(iii) otherwise—5 tonnes, or(b) more than 5 tonnes of waste tyres or 500 waste tyres is stored on the premises at any time (other than in or on a vehicle used to transport the tyres to or from the premises), or(c) more than the following amounts of waste (other than waste referred to in paragraph (a) or (b)) are stored on the premises at any time—(i) in the case of premises in the regulated area—more than 1,000 tonnes or 1,000 cubic metres,(ii) in the case of premises outside the regulated area—more than 2,500 tonnes or 2,500 cubic metres, or(d) more than the following amounts of waste (other than waste referred to in paragraph (a) or (b)) is received per year from off site—(i) in the case of premises in the regulated area—6,000 tonnes,(ii) in the case of premises outside the regulated area—12,000 tonnes.(4) For the purposes of this clause, 1 litre of waste is taken to weigh 1 kilogram.(5) In this clause—community recycling centre means premises—(a) at which the following waste generated in the local community is collected free of charge—(i) household problem waste,(ii) waste that the local authority or EPA has agreed to collect under a product stewardship scheme, and(b) at which no other waste is collected, unless the collection of the waste is reasonably necessary to reduce risks to human health or prevent the degradation of the environment, and(c) identified as a community recycling centre in the notice titled Identification of Community Recycling Centres published by the EPA in the Gazette on 10 February 2023, and(d) where waste collection and processing is funded in whole or in part by the EPA.funded by the EPA includes the EPA providing in kind support including—(a) arranging for the disposal of waste stored on premises, or(b) arranging for the use of waste disposal services at a discounted rate.household chemical clean-out event means an event—(a) conducted by or on behalf of—(i) a local authority, including a joint organisation within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993, or(ii) the EPA, and(b) conducted for no more than 5 days, and(c) funded in whole or in part by the EPA, and(d) involving the collection of the following waste generated in the local community free of charge—(i) household problem waste,(ii) chemical waste generated in households from substances ordinarily used in households,(iii) waste that the local authority or EPA has agreed to collect under a product stewardship scheme, and(e) where no other waste is collected, unless the collection of the waste is reasonably necessary to reduce risks to human health or prevent the degradation of the environment, and(f) where the waste is stored on premises for no more than 5 days.Note—Details of household chemical clean-out events are available on the website of the EPA.household problem waste means waste ordinarily generated in a household that is not able to be collected through council kerbside waste or recycling services.Example—Household batteries or fluorescent globes.
43 Wood or timber milling or processing
(1) This clause applies to wood or timber milling or processing, meaning the sawing, machining, milling, chipping, pulping or compressing of timber or wood (otherwise than at a joinery, builders’ supply yard or home improvement centre).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if—(a) in the case of an activity that burns waste (otherwise than as fuel), it has a capacity to process more than 6,000 cubic metres of timber (or timber products) per year, or(b) in any other case, it has a capacity to process more than 50,000 cubic metres of timber (or timber products) per year.
44 Wood preservation
(1) This clause applies to wood preservation, meaning the treating or preserving timber with pesticides (within the meaning of the Pesticides Act 1999).(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity if it has a capacity to process more than 10,000 cubic metres of timber per year.
Part 2 Activities not premises-based
45 Application of Part
For the purposes of section 49, any activity that is declared by this Part to be a scheduled activity is taken to be an activity for which a licence is required, but where no licence is required for the premises at which it is carried out (the activity is not premises-based).Note—Section 49 (2) provides that a person who carries on such an activity is guilty of an offence unless he or she holds a licence that authorises him or her to carry on that activity.
46 Environmentally hazardous chemicals—non-premises based
(1) This clause applies to the following (each an environmentally hazardous activity)—(a) an activity regulated by a chemical control order in relation to a chemical,(b) an activity—(i) described in this schedule, whether or not the activity is also declared to be a scheduled activity, and(ii) involving the use of a Schedule 6 or 7 chemical that is subject to a restriction or risk management measure in the NSW IChEMS register.(2) An environmentally hazardous activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.
47 Mobile waste processing
(1) This clause applies to mobile waste processing, meaning an activity—(a) that involves the processing of hazardous waste, liquid waste or restricted solid waste (or any combination of them), and(b) that is carried out, for business or commercial purposes, by means of mobile plant.(2) The activity to which this clause applies is declared to be a scheduled activity.
48 Transportation of trackable waste
(1) This clause applies to the following activities—(a) transportation of category 1 trackable waste, meaning the transportation of category 1 trackable waste within New South Wales,Note—This activity covers any transportation of category 1 trackable waste within New South Wales, whether or not the transportation of the waste is confined to New South Wales.(b) transportation of category 2 trackable waste, meaning the transportation of category 2 trackable waste from New South Wales to a participating State, into New South Wales from a participating State or through New South Wales from one participating State to another.(2) However, this clause does not apply to the transportation of waste that is excluded from the application of Part 4 of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014 (the Waste Regulation) by clause 41 of that Regulation.(3) Each activity referred to in Column 1 of the Table to this clause is declared to be a scheduled activity if it meets the criteria set out in Column 2 of that Table.(4) In this clause—category 1 trackable waste and category 2 trackable waste have the same meanings as in the Waste Regulation.participating State has the same meaning as in Part 4 of the Waste Regulation.Table
Part 3 Definitions
Division 1 Waste classifications
49 Definitions of waste classifications
(1) In this Schedule—general solid waste (non-putrescible) means waste (other than special waste, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste, general solid waste (putrescible) or liquid waste) that includes any of the following—(a) glass, plastic, rubber, plasterboard, ceramics, bricks, concrete or metal,(b) paper or cardboard,(c) household waste from municipal clean-up that does not contain food waste,(d) waste collected by or on behalf of local councils from street sweeping,(e) grit, sediment, litter and gross pollutants collected in, and removed from, stormwater treatment devices or stormwater management systems, that has been dewatered so that it does not contain free liquids,(f) grit and screenings from potable water and water reticulation plants that has been dewatered so that it does not contain free liquids,(g) garden waste,(h) wood waste,(i) waste contaminated with lead (including lead paint waste) from residential premises or educational or child care institutions,(j) containers, having previously contained dangerous goods, from which residues have been removed by washing or vacuuming,(k) drained oil filters (mechanically crushed), rags and oil absorbent materials that only contain non-volatile petroleum hydrocarbons and do not contain free liquids,(l) drained motor oil containers that do not contain free liquids,(m) non-putrescible vegetative waste from agriculture, silviculture or horticulture,(n) building cavity dust waste removed from residential premises, or educational or child care institutions, being waste that is packaged securely to prevent dust emissions and direct contact,(o) synthetic fibre waste (from materials such as fibreglass, polyesters and other plastics) being waste that is packaged securely to prevent dust emissions, but excluding asbestos waste,(p) virgin excavated natural material,(q) building and demolition waste,(r) asphalt waste (including asphalt resulting from road construction and waterproofing works),(s) biosolids categorised as unrestricted use, or as restricted use 1, 2 or 3, in accordance with the criteria set out in the Biosolids Guidelines,(t) cured concrete waste from a batch plant,(u) fully cured and set thermosetting polymers and fibre reinforcing resins,(v) fully cured and dried residues of resins, glues, paints, coatings and inks,(w) anything that is classified as general solid waste (non-putrescible) pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice,(x) anything that is classified as general solid waste (non-putrescible) pursuant to the Waste Classification Guidelines,(y) any mixture of anything referred to in paragraphs (a)–(x).general solid waste (putrescible) means waste (other than special waste, hazardous waste, restricted solid waste or liquid waste) that includes any of the following—(a) household waste containing putrescible organics,(b) waste from litter bins collected by or on behalf of local councils,(c) manure and nightsoil,(d) disposable nappies, incontinence pads or sanitary napkins,(e) food waste,(f) animal waste,(g) grit or screenings from sewage treatment systems that have been dewatered so that the grit or screenings do not contain free liquids,(h) anything that is classified as general solid waste (putrescible) pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice,(i) anything that is classified as general solid waste (putrescible) pursuant to the Waste Classification Guidelines,(j) a mixture of anything referred to in paragraphs (a)–(i).hazardous waste means waste (other than special waste or liquid waste) that includes any of the following—(a) anything that is classified as—(i) a substance of Class 1, 2, 5 or 8 within the meaning of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code, or(ii) a substance to which Division 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 or 6.1 of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code applies,(b) containers, having previously contained—(i) a substance of Class 1, 3, 4, 5 or 8 within the meaning of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code, orfrom which residues have not been removed by washing or vacuuming,(ii) a substance to which Division 6.1 of the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code applies,(c) coal tar or coal tar pitch waste (being the tarry residue from the heating, processing or burning of coal or coke) comprising more than 1% (by weight) of coal tar or coal tar pitch waste,(d) lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries (being waste generated or separately collected by activities carried out for business, commercial or community services purposes),(e) lead paint waste arising otherwise than from residential premises or educational or child care institutions,(f) anything that is classified as hazardous waste pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice,(g) anything that is classified as hazardous waste pursuant to the Waste Classification Guidelines,(h) a mixture of anything referred to in paragraphs (a)–(g).liquid waste means any waste (other than special waste) that includes any of the following—(a) anything that—(i) has an angle of repose of less than 5 degrees above horizontal, or(ii) becomes free-flowing at or below 60°C or when it is transported, or(iii) is generally not capable of being picked up by a spade or shovel,(b) anything that is classified as liquid waste pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice.restricted solid waste means any waste (other than special waste, hazardous waste or liquid waste) that includes any of the following—(a) anything that is classified as restricted solid waste pursuant to the Waste Classification Guidelines,(b) anything that is classified as restricted solid waste pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice.special waste means any of the following—(a) clinical and related waste,(b) asbestos waste,(c) waste tyres,(d) anything that is classified as special waste pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice.(2) Despite subclause (1), in this Schedule, any waste that is classified as one of the following classes of waste, in accordance with an immobilised contaminants approval granted under Part 10 of the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014, is taken to be waste of that class—(a) general solid waste (non-putrescible),(b) general solid waste (putrescible),(c) hazardous waste,(d) restricted solid waste,(e) special waste.
Division 2 Other definitions
50 Other definitions
(1) In this Schedule—animal waste includes dead animals and animal parts and any mixture of dead animals and animal parts.asbestos means the fibrous form of those mineral silicates that belong to the serpentine or amphibole groups of rock-forming minerals, including actinolite, amosite (brown asbestos), anthophyllite, chrysotile (white asbestos), crocidolite (blue asbestos) and tremolite.asbestos waste means any waste that contains asbestos.Australian Explosives Code means the document entitled Australian Code for the Transport of Explosives by Road and Rail, published by the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government and as in force from time to time.biosolids means the organic product that results from sewage treatment processes (sometimes referred to as sewage sludge).Biosolids Guidelines means the document entitled Environmental Guidelines: Use and Disposal of Biosolids Products, published by the EPA and as in force from time to time, copies of which are held in the offices of the EPA.Note—A copy of the guidelines is available on the EPA’s website.building and demolition waste means unsegregated material (other than material containing asbestos waste or liquid waste) that results from—(a) the demolition, erection, construction, refurbishment or alteration of buildings other than—(i) chemical works, or(ii) mineral processing works, or(iii) container reconditioning works, or(iv) waste treatment facilities, orand includes materials such as—(b) the construction, replacement, repair or alteration of infrastructure development such as roads, tunnels, sewage, water, electricity, telecommunications and airports,(c) bricks, concrete, paper, plastics, glass and metal, andbut does not include excavated soil (for example, soil excavated to level off a site prior to construction or to enable foundations to be laid or infrastructure to be constructed).(d) timber, including unsegregated timber, that may contain timber treated with chemicals such as copper chrome arsenate (CCA), high temperature creosote (HTC), pigmented emulsified creosote (PEC) and light organic solvent preservative (LOSP),means—(a) clinical waste, or(b) cytotoxic waste, or(c) pharmaceutical, drug or medicine waste, or(d) sharps waste.clinical waste means any waste resulting from medical, nursing, dental, pharmaceutical, skin penetration or other related clinical activity, being waste that has the potential to cause injury, infection or offence, and includes waste containing any of the following—(a) human tissue (other than hair, teeth and nails),(b) bulk body fluids or blood,(c) visibly blood-stained body fluids, materials or equipment,(d) laboratory specimens or cultures,but does not include any such waste that has been treated by a method approved in writing by the EPA.(e) animal tissue, carcasses or other waste from animals used for medical research,coal includes any other carbonaceous material.coal seam gas means petroleum that—(a) consists of naturally occurring hydrocarbons, or a naturally occurring mixture of hydrocarbons and non-hydrocarbons, the principal constituent of which is methane, and(b) is in a gaseous state at standard temperature and pressure, and(c) is extracted from coal beds.contaminated soil means soil or sediment that contains a substance at a concentration above the concentration at which the substance is normally present in soil or sediment from the same locality, being a presence that presents a risk of harm to human health or any other aspect of the environment, where harm to the environment includes any direct or indirect alteration of the environment that has the effect of degrading the environment.cytotoxic waste means any substance contaminated with any residues or preparations that contain materials that are toxic to cells principally through their action on cell reproduction.dangerous goods has the same meaning as it has in the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code.effluent means—(a) waste water from sewage collection or treatment plants, or(b) waste water from collection or treatment systems that are ancillary to processing industries involving livestock, agriculture, wood, paper or food, being waste water that is conveyed from the place of generation by means of a pipe, canal or conventional method used in irrigation (but not by means of a tanker or truck), or(c) waste water from collection or treatment systems that are ancillary to intensive livestock, aquaculture or mariculture, being waste water that is released by means of a pipe, canal or other conventional method used in irrigation as part of day to day farming operations.electricity plant includes all associated water storage, ash recovery and waste management facilities.EPA Gazettal notice means a notice that has been published in the Gazette by the EPA, copies of which are held in the offices of the EPA.Note—A copy of each EPA Gazettal notice is available on the EPA’s website.excluded material means contaminated soil, grease trap waste, waste stored prior to its lawful discharge to a sewer or waters, septic tank waste, stormwater or recoverable oil or oil and water mixture.explosives has the same meaning as it has in the Australian Explosives Code.food waste means waste from the manufacture, preparation, sale or consumption of food but does not include grease trap waste.garden waste means waste that consists of branches, grass, leaves, plants, loppings, tree trunks, tree stumps and similar materials, and includes any mixture of those materials.grease trap waste means any grease, oil, solids, water or other matter—(a) that results from the preparation or manufacturing of food, and(b) that is collected in a grease trap in the usual course of the operation of the grease trap.manure includes any mixture of manure and biodegradable animal bedding (such as straw).metropolitan area means the area of Sydney, Newcastle, Central Coast and Wollongong bounded by and including the local government areas of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Wyong, Gosford, Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains, Penrith, Liverpool, Camden, Campbelltown, Wollongong and Shellharbour.mobile plant means any equipment or machinery that—(a) is capable of carrying on any one or more of the activities referred to in Part 1 of this Schedule, and(b) is capable of moving under its own motive power or being transported, andbut does not include railway vehicles used or intended to be used to transport passengers or freight for reward or to maintain railway track and equipment.(c) is operated at a particular site on a temporary basis only (that is, for a total period of not more than 6 months in any 12-month period),natural organic fibrous materials means bagasse, peat, seed hulls and husks, straw and the like, and includes any mixture of those materials.on site—see subclause (2).organics means natural organic fibrous materials of waste and non-waste origin, including—(a) putrescible organics (such as meat, fish, poultry, fruit, vegetable and their cooked or processed products, animal materials and biosolids (other than biosolids categorised as unrestricted use, or as restricted use 1, 2 or 3, in accordance with the criteria set out in the Biosolids Guidelines)), andbut does not include—(b) non-putrescible organics (such as timber, garden trimmings, agricultural, forestry and crop materials, and natural fibrous organic and vegetative materials),(c) human-made organic chemicals (such as solvents, industrial, agricultural, mining, household chemical cleaning agents and personal care products), or(d) naturally occurring organic chemicals that have been refined and concentrated by human activity (such as oil, petrol, diesel and coal tar).pharmaceutical, drug or medicine waste means waste—(a) that has been generated by activities carried out for business or commercial purposes, and(b) that consists of pharmaceutical or other chemical substances specified in the Poisons List made under section 8 of the Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966.regulated area means the Greater Sydney Region and the local government areas of Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Central Coast, Cessnock, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Kiama, Kyogle, Lake Macquarie, Lismore, Maitland, Mid-Coast, Muswellbrook, Nambucca, Newcastle, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Port Stephens, Richmond Valley, Shellharbour, Shoalhaven, Singleton, Tweed, Upper Hunter Shire, Wingecarribee and Wollongong.Schedule 6 or 7 chemical means a chemical listed as a Schedule 6 or Schedule 7 chemical in the NSW IChEMS register.sharps means those things—(a) that have sharp points or edges capable of cutting, piercing or penetrating the skin (such as needles, syringes with needles or surgical instruments), and(b) that are designed for the purpose of cutting, piercing or penetrating the skin, and(c) that have the potential to cause injury or infection.sharps waste means any waste collected from designated sharps waste containers used in the course of business, commercial or community service activities, being waste resulting from the use of sharps for any of the following purposes—(a) human health care by health professionals and other health care providers,(b) medical research or work on cadavers,(c) veterinary care or veterinary research,but does not include waste that has been treated on the site where it was generated (and to a standard specified in an EPA Gazettal notice) or waste that has been treated by a method approved in writing by the EPA.(d) skin penetration or the injection of drugs or other substances for medical or non-medical reasons,thermal treatment means the processing of wastes by burning, incineration, thermal oxidation, gasification, pyrolysis, plasma or other thermal treatment processes.toxic substance has the same meaning as it has in the Transport of Dangerous Goods Code.Transport of Dangerous Goods Code means the document called the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (7th edition) approved by the Ministerial Council for Road Transport and published by the Commonwealth Government from time to time.virgin excavated natural material means natural material (such as clay, gravel, sand, soil or rock fines)—(a) that has been excavated or quarried from areas that are not contaminated with manufactured chemicals, or with process residues, as a result of industrial, commercial, mining or agricultural activities, andand includes excavated natural material that meets such criteria for virgin excavated natural material as may be approved for the time being pursuant to an EPA Gazettal notice.(b) that does not contain any sulfidic ores or soils or any other waste,Waste Classification Guidelines means the document entitled Waste Classification Guidelines, published by the EPA and as in force from time to time, copies of which are held in the offices of the EPA.Note—A copy of the guidelines is available on the EPA’s website.waste tyres means used, rejected or unwanted tyres, including casings, seconds, shredded tyres or tyre pieces.wood waste means sawdust, timber offcuts, wooden crates, wooden packaging, wooden pallets, wood shavings and similar materials, and includes any mixture of those materials, but does not include wood treated with chemicals such as copper chrome arsenate (CCA), high temperature creosote (HTC), pigmented emulsified creosote (PEC) and light organic solvent preservative (LOSP).(2) A reference to something being done in relation to waste on site is a reference to that thing being done only on the premises on which the waste was generated.
sch 1: Am GG No 53 of 30.4.1999, p 2899; GG No 72 of 25.6.1999, p 4226; GG No 42 of 31.3.2000, p 2682; GG No 57 of 12.5.2000, p 3837; GG No 71 of 16.6.2000, p 4998; GG No 54 of 16.3.2001, p 1245; GG No 60 of 30.3.2001, p 1600; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [10] [11]; GG No 150 of 5.10.2001, p 8381; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [141]–[144]. Subst 2008 (109), Sch 1. Am 2008 No 122, Sch 15.1 [1]; 2009 (210), Sch 1 [1]–[14]; 2009 No 106, Sch 1.13 [1] [2]; 2009 (593), Sch 1 [1]–[6]; 2011 (554), Sch 1 [1]–[9]; 2012 No 96, Sch 4.30; 2013 (341), Sch 1 [1]–[5]; 2014 (666), Sch 2 [1]–[35]; 2014 (852), Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2017 (118), Sch 1 [1]–[3]; 2018 No 40, Sch 3.11 [2]; 2018 (643), Sch 1 [1]–[7]; 2019 (88), Sch 1 [1] [2]; 2019 (319), Sch 1 [1]–[12]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[75]; 2022 No 8, Sch 5.7; 2022 (449), Sch 9[1]–[16]; 2023 (51), Sch 1.1[1] [2]; 2023 (72), Sch 1[1] [2]; 2023 No 30, Sch 2.7[1]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[15]–[17]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[74]–[77].
Schedule 2 Regulation-making powers
(Section 323)
1 Discharge into sewers
Prohibiting or regulating the discharge of specified substances into sewers or any specified class of sewers.
2 Phosphates
(1) Prohibiting or regulating the sale of products containing phosphates.(2) Regulating or reducing the pollution of waterways with phosphates.
3 Noise
(1) Prohibiting or regulating the emission of noise from premises (whether or not those premises are a public place).(2) Prohibiting or regulating the making or emission of noise in public places.(3) Prohibiting the sale, use or operation of an article except in accordance with prescribed conditions relating to the emission of noise from the article when in use or operation, and in particular prohibiting the sale, use or operation of an article unless it is fitted with prescribed control equipment or noise labels.(4) Prohibiting the carrying on of any activity except in accordance with prescribed conditions relating to the emission of noise arising in the course of the carrying on of the activity.(5) Requiring, or empowering the EPA to require, the installation, maintenance, use or operation of noise barriers and control equipment.(6) The manner of installing, maintaining, using and operating noise barriers and control equipment.(7) The testing and inspection of articles, and requiring articles to be tested or inspected, for the purpose of—(a) determining whether they comply with the requirements of this Act or the regulations, and(b) without limiting paragraph (a), determining the level, nature, character or quality of the noise emitted by them or the noise that they are capable of emitting.(8) Preventing or controlling noise made by animals (including birds) at any premises, and in particular the giving of notices requiring the prevention or control of any such noise.
4 Vehicles and vessels
(1) The issue of notices or giving directions setting out the conditions with which the owner of or person in charge of or having possession of, for sale or otherwise, a vehicle or vessel must comply before the vehicle or vessel may be sold, used or operated.(2) The affixing of notices or labels to vehicles or vessels.(3) The imposition of penalties for removing, obliterating or interfering with any notices or labels so affixed.(3A) The testing and inspection of vehicles or vessels, and requiring vehicles or vessels to be tested or inspected, for the purpose of determining whether they comply with the requirements of this Act or the regulations.(4) Other matters incidental to or necessary for prohibiting or regulating the sale, use or operation of vehicles or vessels that do not comply with the requirements of this Act or the regulations (including requirements with respect to the emission of excessive air impurities, the fitting and operation of pollution control devices and the use of fuels).(5) The application to vessels of the provisions of sections 165 and 166 relating to vehicles.(6) The liability of an owner of a motor vehicle or vessel for an offence under the regulations where an offence is committed with respect to or in connection with the motor vehicle or vessel (whether or not the act or omission concerned is committed or omitted by the owner), including the circumstances in which the owner is not liable.
5 Waste
(1) The operation of waste facilities, and the treatment, storage, processing, recovery, recycling, re-use or disposal of waste at waste facilities (whether or not they are required to be licensed under this Act).(2) The transportation of waste by persons (whether or not they are required to be licensed under this Act).(3) The collection, storage, creation, handling, processing, recovery, recycling, re-use and disposal of waste.(4) The construction or maintenance of containers, vehicles and vessels used for the transportation of waste.(5) The provision of information relating to the operation of waste facilities or the transportation of waste (whether or not they are required to be licensed under this Act).(6) Prohibiting or regulating the storage, processing, recovery, recycling, re-use or disposal of any waste.
5A Local council waste reduction and environmental sustainability scheme
(1) The establishment and administration of a scheme for recycling, resource recovery and other reduction of waste by, and improving the environmental sustainability practices and services of, local councils.(2) The making of payments to local councils in accordance with the scheme from money appropriated by Parliament for that purpose.(3) Requirements that must be met by local councils to be eligible to receive payments under the scheme.
6 Open fires or incinerators
The regulation or prohibition of the burning of fires in the open or in incinerators.
6A Fuel and fuel burning equipment
(1) Prohibiting or regulating the sale, distribution, use, operation and maintenance of fuel burning equipment, and equipment for industrial plant, including control equipment.(2) Prohibiting or regulating the storage, sale, distribution or use of fuels or volatile organic liquids and the sale, distribution, use, operation and maintenance of fuel tanks and other equipment used in connection with the sale or distribution of fuels or volatile organic liquids.(3) Other matters incidental to or necessary for prohibiting or regulating the matters referred to in subclauses (1) and (2), including requirements with respect to the quality and composition of fuels or volatile organic liquids, the emission of excessive air impurities and the fitting and control of pollution control devices.
6B Emission of air impurities
Requirements with respect to the emission of, and testing for, air impurities, including the methods for determining standards of concentration or rates of emission.
7 Fees for services
The payment of fees for services provided by the EPA and other appropriate regulatory authorities (including, but not limited to, the administrative costs of services provided under this Act and the costs associated with the functions of the EPA and other appropriate regulatory authorities under this Act).
8 Licences—generally
(1) The issue, transfer, conditions, variation, surrender, review, suspension or revocation of licences.(2) Applications for the issue, transfer, variation or surrender of a licence (including the amendment of such applications).(3) Any matter that may be regulated by the conditions of a licence.(4) Imposing conditions on licences and revoking or varying conditions on licences (whether or not the conditions have been imposed by the regulations).
9 Load-based, administrative and other licence fees
(1) Licence fees, including the following—(a) the time at which, or the periods for or during which, fees are to be paid,(b) the types of fees,(c) the structure of fees,(d) the payment of more than one type of fee,(e) the payment of more than one annual fee,(f) the payment of a combined fee or fees for two or more licences held by the same person or different persons,(g) the basis on which a fee is to be calculated,(h) the factors to be used or taken into consideration in calculating a fee, including—(i) the activity in respect of which the licence is issued, or(ii) the kinds of pollutants discharged,(i) the provision of economic incentives to licensees to avoid or reduce harm to the environment from activities carried out by licensees,(j) without limiting section 42, 68 or 69 of the Interpretation Act 1987, the application or adoption of standards or tests, with or without modification, and as in force as at a particular time or from time to time as specified by the regulations, to be used in fee calculations for measuring the amounts of pollutants and assessing the discharge of pollutants,(k) the constitution, as an incorporated or unincorporated body, of bodies having functions relating to the review of licence fee calculations or aspects of those calculations,(l) the determination of particular fees to be paid by particular licensees or applicants for licences,(m) the creation and retention of records and information required for the calculation of fees,(n) the provision to the appropriate regulatory authority by licensees and former licensees (including transferors of licences) of particulars relevant to the determination of a fee,(o) the certification of particulars referred to in paragraph (n) and the persons who may certify the particulars, including the approval by the appropriate regulatory authority of persons or classes of persons as certifiers,(p) the payment of fees by instalments,(q) the payment of interest on unpaid fees, including the interest rate,(r) penalties for late payment or underpayment of fees,(s) the recovery of fees by the appropriate regulatory authority,(t) the crediting of amounts held by the appropriate regulatory authority on behalf of a licensee towards the payment of a fee,(u) the refund and waiver of fees, or particular types of fees, in whole or in part,(v) discount schemes and the granting of discounts,(w) rebate schemes and the payment of rebates.(2) Prescribing different fees according to specified factors or circumstances.(3) Imposing a licence fee despite the fact that the fee may comprise a tax.(4) Authorising the appropriate regulatory authority to refuse an application for a licence or for the transfer or surrender of a licence—(a) if any fee or other amount due and payable under this Act or the regulations in relation to the application or licence is unpaid, or(b) if the applicant has previously defaulted in the payment of such a fee or other amount, or(c) if, in its opinion, the applicant is or will be unwilling or is or will be unable to pay a fee or other amount that is or may become due and payable under this Act or the regulations in relation to the application or licence.(5) Authorising the appropriate regulatory authority, if satisfied that any pollution would not be such as to warrant the payment of the fee for a licence, to remit in whole or in part the fee payable for the licence.
9A Establishment of scheme for independent certification of load-based licences
(1) Requiring a person who holds a licence which requires the payment of a load-based fee to obtain independent certification of compliance with this Act, the regulation or licence conditions where the licence requires the holder of the licence to submit an annual return.(2) Prescribing a scheme for any such independent certification and in particular (but not limited to)—(a) the persons or classes of persons who may provide independent certification for the purposes of the scheme and the qualifications or experience that those persons or classes of persons are required to have, and(b) the standards or methods to be used, or other requirements in respect of, determining compliance, and(c) the information to be provided to the EPA following independent certification and the manner or form in which it is to be provided, and(d) the general nature, requirements and operation of the scheme.
9B Waste classifier accreditation scheme
(1) A scheme for the accreditation of persons (waste classifiers) to classify or assess waste, including waste the subject of a resource recovery exemption or resource recovery order or a class of waste.(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the scheme may include provision for the following—(a) training and certification of waste classifiers,(b) fees to be paid in relation to the scheme and the waiver and refund of fees,(c) an online register for waste classifiers and reports about waste classification,(d) requirements about the classification of waste, including a requirement that waste must be classified by a waste classifier accredited under the scheme,(e) requirements for notifications and reports about waste classification,(f) information that must be provided by waste classifiers to the EPA and other persons and authorities and how the information must be provided,(g) recognition of similar accreditations in jurisdictions other than New South Wales,(h) the administration of the scheme, including the following—(i) who administers the scheme,(ii) how the scheme is administered,(iii) how long an accreditation is in force.
10 Recognition of licences issued outside the State
(1) Providing for the recognition (including automatic recognition) in this State of licences or other authorities issued by any other State or Territory that correspond or are similar to environment protection licences under this Act.(2) Providing for the circumstances in which any such recognised licence or other authority is taken to be an environment protection licence issued under this Act.
10A National environment protection measures
Giving effect to, and enforcing compliance with, a national environment protection measure made under the National Environment Protection Council Act 1994 of the Commonwealth, section 14(1).
11 Time restrictions
Prohibiting or regulating the carrying out of any activity, or the use or operation of any article, at any specified time for the purpose of preventing or limiting noise or other pollution.
12 Tests
(1) Prescribing tests for determining the extent of pollution (including the level, nature, character or quality of noise or other pollutants).(2) Prescribing tests for determining whether this Act or the regulations are being complied with.(3) Providing for the admissibility in evidence in proceedings of the results of those tests (including the admissibility of certificates relating to those results as conclusive or prima facie evidence of the matters certified).
13 Aquatic activities
Prohibiting or regulating swimming, boating or other aquatic activities in public areas.
14 Assistance etc to authorised officers
The assistance and facilities (including means of access, and the means of making examinations, inspections and tests) to be provided by occupiers of premises to enable authorised officers to exercise their functions under this Act.
15 General
(1) The prevention, control, abatement or mitigation of pollution.(2) The furnishing by a local authority to the EPA of information relating to the exercise of the local authority’s functions under this Act.(3) Requirements in relation to keeping information, records and other documents about pollution, including complaints about pollution.
sch 2: Am 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [14]; 2001 No 56, Sch 1.14 [16]; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [12]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [36]–[38]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [145]–[148]; 2006 No 20, Sch 1; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [7] [8]; 2008 No 122, Sch 15.1 [2]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[76]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[18] [19]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[78] [79].
Schedule 2A Enforcement of gas and other petroleum legislation
1 Definitions
In this Schedule—petroleum has the same meaning it has in the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991.petroleum activities means activities authorised (or required to be authorised) by a petroleum title under the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, and includes activities required or authorised by the conditions of any such title (including, without limitation, conditions relating to the carrying out of assessment activities or conditions relating to the prevention, control or mitigation of harm to the environment or relating to the rehabilitation of land or water affected by the activities under any such title). Petroleum activities do not include—(a) the construction, alteration or operation of a pipeline for the conveyance of petroleum that is licensed or required to be licensed under the Pipelines Act 1967, or(b) activities in the adjacent area of New South Wales (within the meaning of the Petroleum (Offshore) Act 1982), or(c) any other activities excluded by the regulations.means—(a) a petroleum title under the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, or(b) a development consent under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to the extent that it authorises the carrying out of development for the purposes of petroleum activities, or(b1) an approval under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Division 5.2 to the extent that it authorises the carrying out of development for the purposes of petroleum activities, or(c) an approval under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Part 3A, when that Part was in force or continued in operation, to the extent that it authorises the carrying out of a project for the purposes of petroleum activities, or(d) a water access licence, water use approval or water supply work approval under the Water Management Act 2000 (or licence in respect of a bore under the Water Act 1912) to the extent that it authorises the taking or use of water, or the construction or use of a water supply work, for the purposes of petroleum activities.petroleum offence means any of the following offences—(a) an offence under section 7, 78A or 125E of the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991,(b) an offence under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, including the regulations under that Act, in relation to petroleum activities that require a petroleum authority (or environmental assessment) under that Act,(c) an offence under Division 1A of Part 2 or Division 1A of Part 3 of Chapter 3 of the Water Management Act 2000 (or an offence under the Water Act 1912) in relation to petroleum activities that require a petroleum authority under that Act,(d) an offence under a provision of Chapter 4, 6 or 7 of this Act in relation to the exercise of functions under that Chapter as applied by this Schedule,(e) any other offence under a provision of or made under an Act referred to in paragraphs (a)–(d) in relation to petroleum activities that is declared by the regulations to be a petroleum offence for the purposes of this Schedule.
2 Investigations by EPA and its officers in relation to petroleum offences
(1) Powers and other functions may also be exercised under Chapter 7 of this Act by the EPA (and by authorised officers appointed by the EPA) for the following purposes—(a) for determining whether any petroleum offence has been or may be committed,(b) for obtaining information or records for purposes connected with the institution of proceedings for petroleum offences,(c) generally for the administration of this Schedule (and the provisions of this Act applied by this Schedule).(2) The provisions of Chapter 7 of this Act apply for any such purpose—(a) as if the responsibilities and functions of the EPA under this Act included the matters referred to in subclause (1), and(b) as if references to the regulatory authority were references to the EPA.(3) This clause does not affect the exercise of powers or other functions under Chapter 7 of this Act in relation to petroleum activities that are authorised to be exercised without reliance on the provisions of this Schedule.
3 Proceedings and penalty notices for petroleum offences
(1) Proceedings for petroleum offences may be instituted by the EPA under this Act.(2) Parts 8.2 and 8.3 of this Act extend to proceedings for petroleum offences instituted by the EPA. The provisions of those Parts apply for that purpose as if references in those Parts to this Act or the regulations included a reference to the Act or regulations under which the petroleum offence arises.(3) If a provision of Part 8.2 or 8.3 of this Act in relation to proceedings for a petroleum offence that are instituted under this clause is inconsistent with a provision of or made under the Act under which the petroleum offence arises, the provision of Part 8.2 or 8.3 prevails to the extent of the inconsistency.(4) If under the Act or regulations under which a petroleum offence arises a penalty notice may be issued in respect of the offence—(a) the petroleum offence is taken to be prescribed as a penalty notice offence under this Act, and(b) the penalty payable under a penalty notice served under this Act in respect of the petroleum offence is the penalty prescribed under that other Act in respect of a penalty notice served under that other Act, andand accordingly Division 3 of Part 8.2 of this Act applies to any such penalty notice.(c) the officers authorised to serve a penalty notice under this Act in respect of the petroleum offence are the enforcement officers appointed by the EPA who are authorised under this Act to serve penalty notices in relation to scheduled activities,(5) This clause does not limit the authority of any other person or body to institute proceedings for petroleum offences or to issue penalty notices for petroleum offences.
4 Use of enforceable undertakings by EPA
(1) The EPA may accept a written undertaking given by a person for the purposes of section 253A of this Act in connection with a matter in relation to which the EPA has a function under this Schedule, and accordingly the provisions of section 253A apply to any such undertaking.(2) This clause does not prevent the acceptance of similar undertakings by a person or body (other than the EPA) under another Act under which a petroleum authority is granted or issued, but if there is a direct inconsistency between a written undertaking accepted by the EPA and a similar undertaking accepted by a person or other body under that other Act, the undertaking accepted by the EPA prevails to the extent of the inconsistency.
5 Use of environment protection notices by EPA
(1) The powers and other functions that may be exercised by the EPA under Chapter 4 of this Act extend to any petroleum activities authorised or required to be authorised by a petroleum authority.(2) For the purposes of Part 4.3 of this Act, an activity is carried on in an environmentally unsatisfactory manner if (in addition to the circumstances set out in section 95 of this Act)—(a) a petroleum offence is committed or is likely to be committed in carrying on the activity, or(b) it is not carried on in accordance with good environmental and engineering practice and any applicable work program to which it is subject.(3) The provisions of Chapter 4 of this Act apply for the purposes of this clause as if references to the regulatory authority were references to the EPA.(4) This clause does not prevent the exercise of similar powers or other functions under another Act under which a petroleum authority is granted or issued, but if there is a direct inconsistency between an environment protection notice issued by the EPA and a similar notice, order or direction under that other Act, the environment protection notice issued by the EPA prevails to the extent of the inconsistency.(5) A reference in this clause to Chapter 4 of this Act includes a reference to Part 9.2 (Appeals) in relation to powers and other functions exercised by the EPA under that Chapter as applied by this clause.
6 Environmental audits in relation to petroleum activities
(1) The EPA may, by notice served on the holder of a petroleum authority, require the holder of the authority to undertake a mandatory environmental audit in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Act if—(a) the EPA reasonably suspects—(i) that the holder of the authority has on one or more occasions committed a petroleum offence in connection with activities to which a petroleum authority relates, and(ii) that the offence has caused, is causing or is likely to cause, harm to the environment, or(b) the EPA reasonably suspects that any petroleum activity has not been or is not being carried out by the holder of the authority in accordance with good environmental and engineering practice and any applicable work program to which it is subject.(2) Chapter 6 (and Part 9.2) of this Act apply to a mandatory environmental audit requirement imposed under this clause. The requirement imposed on the holder of a petroleum authority under this clause is taken to be a condition of the authority.(3) The holder of a petroleum authority may commission or carry out a voluntary environmental audit in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Act in connection with activities to which the petroleum authority relates.(4) This clause does not prevent the imposition of a mandatory environmental audit requirement, or the commissioning or carrying out of a voluntary environmental audit, under any other Act under which a petroleum authority is granted or issued.
7 Exchange of information and advice between petroleum agencies for the purpose of the administration of petroleum authorities
(1) In this clause—includes—(a) the grant or issue of petroleum authorities, and(b) the cancellation, revocation, suspension and amendment of petroleum authorities, and(c) the issue of notices, orders and directions in connection with the carrying out of petroleum activities under petroleum authorities, and(d) the institution of proceedings for petroleum offences.petroleum agency means the EPA and any other statutory body or Public Service agency responsible for the administration of petroleum authorities.includes an environment protection licence under this Act to the extent that it authorises the carrying out of activities or work for the purposes of petroleum activities.petroleum offence includes an offence under Part 3.2 or 3.4 of this Act in relation to petroleum activities.relevant information or records means—(a) information or records obtained by the EPA under this Schedule or under any other provision of this Act in connection with the administration of petroleum authorities, or(b) information or records obtained by any other petroleum agency under the Act under which it administers petroleum authorities in connection with the administration of those authorities.(2) Relevant information or records held by a petroleum agency may be provided to another petroleum agency for the purposes of the administration of petroleum authorities by that other agency.(3) A petroleum agency may provide advice to another petroleum agency about the administration of petroleum authorities.(4) A petroleum agency (and a Minister to whom the agency is responsible) may rely on relevant information or records (and have regard to advice) provided to it under this clause for the purposes of the administration of a petroleum authority.
8 Regulations
The regulations may make provision for or with respect to modifying or supplementing any provision of or made under this Act for the purposes of this Schedule.Note—Paragraph (e) of the definition of petroleum offences in clause 1 authorises the regulations to declare other offences against other Acts relating to petroleum activities to be petroleum offences for the purposes of this Schedule.
9 Application of Schedule to previous activities, existing authorities etc
A reference in this Schedule to petroleum activities, petroleum authorities or petroleum offences (or relevant information or records) includes a reference to activities carried out, authorities granted or issued or offences committed (or information or records obtained) before the commencement of this Schedule.
10 Chemicals
(1) Prohibiting or regulating the use or manufacture of chemicals, including products or articles containing industrial chemicals.(2) In this clause—article has the same meaning as in the Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 of the Commonwealth.manufacture—see section 296.use—see section 296.
sch 2A: Ins 2015 No 42, Sch 1. Am 2015 No 40, Sch 3.6; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[77]–[79].
Schedule 3 Repeals
(Section 324)
Clean Air Act 1961 No 69Clean Waters Act 1970 No 78
Environmental Offences and Penalties Act 1989 No 150
Noise Control Act 1975 No 35
Pollution Control Act 1970 No 95
Schedule 4 (Repealed)
sch 4: Am 1998 No 54, Sch 1.14 [3]; 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [15]. Rep 1999 No 85, Sch 4.
Schedule 5 Savings, transitional and other provisions
(Section 326)
Part 1 Preliminary
1 Definition
In this Schedule—commencement of this Act means, if this Act commences on different days, the day on which the relevant provision of this Act commences.
2 Regulations
(1) The regulations may contain provisions of a savings or transitional nature consequent on the enactment of the following Acts—this ActEnvironment Protection Legislation Amendment Act 2002 (but only to the extent to which it amends this Act or regulations under this Act)Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment Act 2005—to the extent it amends this ActProtection of the Environment Legislation Amendment Act 2011—to the extent it amends this Actany other Act that amends this Act.(2) Any such provision may, if the regulations so provide, take effect from the date of assent to the Act concerned or a later day.(3) To the extent to which any such provision takes effect from a date that is earlier than the date of its publication in the Gazette, the provision does not operate so as—(a) to affect, in a manner prejudicial to any person (other than the State or an authority of the State), the rights of that person existing before the date of its publication, or(b) to impose liabilities on any person (other than the State or an authority of the State) in respect of anything done or omitted to be done before the date of its publication.
Part 2 Provisions relating to protection of the environment policies
3 Application to previous impacts on environment
A protection of the environment policy extends (subject to the terms of the policy) to impacts on the environment caused before the commencement of this Act.
Part 3 Provisions relating to environment protection licences
4 Licences
A licence issued under any Act, or provision of any Act, repealed by this Act is taken to be a licence issued under this Act, subject to the regulations under this Schedule.
5 Applications for licences or other approvals
An application for or in respect of a licence or other approval under any Act, or provision of any Act, repealed by this Act is taken to be an application for or in respect of a corresponding licence or other approval under this Act, subject to the regulations under this Schedule.
6 (Repealed)
7 Review of existing licences
For the purposes of section 78, the first review under this Act of a licence that is in force on the commencement of that section is to be undertaken (subject to the regulations under this Schedule) within 3 years after that commencement.
Part 4 Provisions relating to environment protection notices
8 Notices may be issued with respect to previous activities
An environment protection notice may be issued—(a) in the case of a clean-up notice—for pollution incidents occurring before as well as after the commencement of this Act, or(b) in the case of a prevention notice—for activities carried on before as well as after the commencement of this Act, or(c) in the case of prohibition notices—for the emission or discharge of pollutants after the commencement of this Act.
Part 5 Provisions relating to investigation
9 Authorised officers
A person appointed or authorised as an authorised officer under an Act or provision of an Act repealed by this Act and holding office on that repeal is taken to be appointed as an authorised officer under this Act, subject to the regulations under this Schedule.
Part 6 Provisions relating to criminal and other proceedings
10 Previous offences
The regulations under this Schedule may extend Chapter 8 (with modifications, if any) to proceedings in connection with any Act or regulation repealed by this Act (in respect of offences committed against the Act or regulation before its repeal or in respect of any other matter that continues to have any force or effect). Those regulations may also make provision for the continued operation of any such repealed Act or regulation to those proceedings. In this clause, a reference to a repealed Act or regulation includes a reference to a repealed provision of an Act or regulation.
Part 7 General
11 Saving of existing regulations and regulation-making powers
(1) A regulation made under an Act repealed by this Act is, on that repeal, taken to be a regulation made under this Act to the extent that it may be made under this Act.(2) For the purposes of Part 3 of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1989, any such regulation made under the Clean Waters Act 1970 or the Pollution Control Act 1970 is taken to have been published on the repeal of that Act.(3) Until the end of the period of 3 years after the repeal of any Act by this Act, regulations may be made under this Act for or with respect to any matter that could have been prescribed by regulations under that Act (but for its repeal).(4) In this clause, a reference to the repeal of an Act by this Act includes a reference to the repeal of a provision of the Waste Minimisation and Management Act 1995 by this Act.
12 Transitional arrangements pending commencement of integrated development amendments to Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
(1) This clause applies only if the substitution of Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the EPA Act) by Schedule 1 to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Amendment Act 1997 has not commenced before the commencement of this Act, and so applies only until the commencement of the Schedule.(2) The consent authority under the EPA Act must forward a copy of a development application referred to in section 77 (3) of the EPA Act (and the documents that accompany the application) to the EPA, within 7 days of receiving the application, if the application is in respect of a scheduled activity.(3) The EPA is required to inform the consent authority under the EPA Act of the following within 30 days after receiving the copy of that development application—(a) advice on the environment protection issues raised by the development application,(b) advice on whether an application for an environment protection licence for the scheduled activity concerned is likely to be granted or refused.Advice referred to in paragraph (b) need not be given if the EPA has insufficient information or time available to provide that advice.(4) The consent authority is required to take any such advice into consideration when determining the development application concerned.(5) The consent authority under the EPA Act must, at the time referred to in section 87 of that Act, also forward copies of the submissions referred to in that section to the EPA if the application for development consent is in respect of a scheduled activity.
13 Existing notices, exemptions etc
A notice, direction, order, requirement or exemption given, issued or made under an Act, or a provision of an Act, repealed by this Act and in force on that repeal continues to have effect to the extent provided by the regulations under this Schedule.
14 General saving
Any thing done under an Act or a provision of an Act repealed by this Act that has any force or effect immediately before its repeal is taken to have been done under the corresponding provision of this Act, subject to any express or implied provision to the contrary in this Act or the regulations made under this Act.
Part 8 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Littering) Act 2000
15 EPA ceasing to be appropriate regulatory authority in relation to certain premises
(1) A notice, direction or requirement that—(a) was made, issued or given under this Act by the EPA in its capacity as appropriate regulatory authority because of section 6 (2) (c) as in force before the commencement of the amendment to section 6 (2) made by the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Littering) Act 2000 (or by an authorised officer of the EPA), and(b) was made, issued or given under this Act before that commencement, and(c) is in force on that commencement, andcontinues to have effect for the purposes of this Act.(d) is not excluded from the operation of this clause by the regulations,(2) Any such notice, direction or requirement may be dealt with and enforced in accordance with this Act as in force before that commencement, as if the EPA were still the appropriate regulatory authority.(3) A compliance cost notice may be given, dealt with and enforced after that commencement in connection with any such notice, direction or requirement, as if the EPA were still the appropriate regulatory authority.
16 Local authority as appropriate regulatory authority in relation to certain premises
(1) A notice, direction or requirement that—(a) purported to have been made, issued or given under this Act by a local authority as appropriate regulatory authority before the commencement of the amendment to section 6 (2) made by the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Littering) Act 2000 (or by an authorised officer of the local authority), and(b) was not validly made, issued or given, but would have been validly made, issued or given had that amendment been in force when it purported to have been made, issued or given, andis taken to have been validly made, issued or given under this Act at the time at which it purported to have been made, issued or given and to be valid at all relevant times since.(c) is not excluded from the operation of this clause by the regulations,(2) Any such notice, direction or requirement may be dealt with and enforced in accordance with this Act, as if the local authority had always been the appropriate regulatory authority.(3) A compliance cost notice may be given, dealt with and enforced after that commencement in connection with any such notice, direction or requirement, as if the local authority had always been the appropriate regulatory authority.(4) Any proceedings purporting to be instituted by a local authority (or by an officer or employee of the local authority) before the commencement of the amendments to sections 6 (2) and 218 (6) made by the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Littering) Act 2000 for an offence committed in relation to premises occupied by the State or by a public authority are taken to have been validly instituted.
Part 9 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Tradeable Emission Schemes) Act 2000
17 Compensation provisions
Section 293 (6) continues to apply in respect of any loss incurred before the repeal of that subsection by the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment (Tradeable Emission Schemes) Act 2000, as if that subsection had not been repealed by that Act.
Part 10 Provisions consequent on enactment of Environment Protection Legislation Amendment Act 2002
18 Definition
In this Part—2002 amending Act means the Environment Protection Legislation Amendment Act 2002.
19 Pollution incidents
(1) Section 66 (2A), as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, applies to information provided under a licence condition before its commencement.(2) A licence condition of a kind referred to in section 66 (2A), as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, being a condition imposed before the commencement of section 66 (2A), is, for the purposes of section 66, taken to have been imposed under section 66 (2A).
20 Applications to surrender licences
Section 80, and the definition of licence application in the Dictionary, as amended by the 2002 amending Act, do not apply to or in respect of any application for the approval of the surrender of a licence made before the commencement of this clause.
21 Identification cards for enforcement officers
(1) Section 189, as amended by the 2002 amending Act, does not apply to an enforcement officer or the authority that appointed the enforcement officer for a period of 6 months commencing on the commencement of the amendment.(2) It is sufficient compliance with section 189 (2), as amended by the 2002 amending Act, if an enforcement officer (acting in the capacity of an enforcement officer) who was, immediately before the commencement of the amendment of that section by the 2002 amending Act, an authorised officer produces the person’s identification card as an authorised officer.
22 Mistaken exercise of power
Sections 212C and 212D, as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, apply to or in respect of a function exercised by an authority or an authorised officer before those sections commenced except where the exercise of the function relates to an offence for which proceedings commenced before that commencement.
23 Proceedings with leave of Land and Environment Court
The provisions of section 219 (1A) and (1B), as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, do not apply to or in respect of an offence arising out of an act or omission that occurred before the commencement of those provisions if proceedings for the offence are commenced before that commencement.
24 Continuing offences
Section 242, as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, applies to or in respect of an offence arising out of a contravention of a requirement made before the commencement of that section if proceedings for the offence are commenced on or after that commencement.
25 Appeals
The provisions of section 287 (3)–(6), as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, do not apply to or in respect of licence applications made before the commencement of those provisions.
26 Notices given by authorities
Section 319A, as inserted by the 2002 amending Act, does not apply to or in respect of a notice issued before the commencement of that section.
Part 11 Provisions consequent on enactment of Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004
27 Surrender of licences
Fees relating to any surrendered licence (including a licence that was surrendered before the repeal of section 80 (3) by the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004) may be refunded or waived in accordance with this Act and the regulations.
Part 12 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment Act 2005
28 Definition
In this Part—amending Act means the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment Act 2005.
29 Review of licences
(1) This clause applies to licences in force at the commencement of the amendment to section 78 (1) by the amending Act, being licences that had been reviewed under that section before that commencement.(2) A licence is to be reviewed under section 78 not later than 5 years after the date of the last review before that commencement and, after that, at intervals not exceeding 5 years after each review.
30 Appeals
Sections 84 (2), 86 (2), 99 (1), 267 (1) and 271 (1), as substituted by the amending Act, and sections 86 (2A), 287 (1A), 288 (2), 289 (1A) and 290 (1A), as inserted by the amending Act, apply only to appeals in respect of which a decision was made, a notice was issued or an order was made after the commencement of those subsections.
31 Recovery of costs
(1) Section 107 (8), as inserted by the amending Act, applies only where a compliance cost notice is issued after the commencement of that subsection (whether or not the compliance cost notice relates to costs and expenses incurred before that commencement).(2) Section 237A, as inserted by the amending Act, applies only where the restraining order to which the charge relates was made after the commencement of that section (whether or not the restraining order relates to proceedings commenced before that commencement).(3) Section 237B, as inserted by the amending Act, applies only where the restraining order to which the caveat relates was made after the commencement of that section (whether or not the restraining order relates to proceedings commenced before that commencement).(4) Sections 267A and 267B, as inserted by the amending Act, apply only where the noise control notice is issued after the commencement of those sections.
32 Proceedings instituted by agents
Any proceedings instituted under section 217 or 218 by an agent of, or a person appointed by, an appropriate regulatory authority or any other authority or person before the commencement of section 218A are as valid as they would have been if instituted after that commencement.
33 Continuing licence conditions
Section 319A, as amended by the amending Act, extends to conditions of a licence in force on the commencement of the amendments.
34 Existing licence conditions
Section 323 (5A), as inserted by the amending Act, extends to a condition that was attached to a licence before the commencement of that subsection.
Part 13 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Legislation Amendment Act 2011
35 Obligation to publish results of monitoring
(1) Subject to subclause (2), the obligation under section 66 (6) to publish results of monitoring does not apply to any monitoring conducted before the commencement of that subsection.(2) A person who held an environment protection licence immediately before the commencement of section 66 (6) does not commit an offence under that subsection during the first 3 months after that commencement.
36 Duties to prepare and implement pollution incident response management plans
A person who held an environment protection licence immediately before the commencement of Part 5.7A does not commit an offence under that Part during the first 6 months after that commencement.
37 Obligation to include matter on register
The obligation to include matter on the public register—(a) created by section 308 (2) (d1) applies only to mandatory environmental audits undertaken after the commencement of that paragraph, and(b) created by section 308 (2) (d2) applies only to pollution studies undertaken after the commencement of that paragraph, and(c) created by section 308 (2) (d3) applies only to pollution reduction programs undertaken after the commencement of that paragraph, and(d) created by section 308 (2) (j1) applies only to penalty notices issued after the commencement of that paragraph.
Part 14 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Legislation Amendment Act 2014
38 Definition
In this Part—amending Act means the Protection of the Environment Legislation Amendment Act 2014.
39 Orders for restorative justice
(1) Section 250, as amended by the amending Act, extends to proceedings that were initiated, but not determined, before the commencement of the amendment to that section.(2) Proceedings are not determined for the purposes of subclause (1) even if all that remains to be completed is the sentencing of an offender.
40 Stay of decisions on appeal
Section 287 (1A), as in force before its substitution by the amending Act, continues to apply to appeals lodged before that substitution.
Part 15 Provisions consequent on enactment of Protection of the Environment Legislation Miscellaneous Amendments Act 2017
41 Definition
In this Part—amending Act means the Protection of the Environment Legislation Miscellaneous Amendments Act 2017.
42 Licences to transport trackable waste
(1) A licence to transport trackable waste that was issued before the commencement of Part 3.6A of this Act, as inserted by the amending Act, expires—(a) if both a licence to transport trackable waste and a dangerous goods vehicle licence are in force in respect of the same motor vehicle—(i) at the end of the licence fee period that comes to an end immediately following the commencement of Part 3.6A, orwhichever is the later, or(ii) on the date specified in the dangerous goods vehicle licence,(b) in all other cases—at the end of the licence fee period that comes to an end immediately following the commencement of Part 3.6A.(2) In this clause—dangerous goods vehicle licence means a licence for a road vehicle to transport dangerous goods issued under Division 4 of Part 18 of the Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Regulation 2014.licence fee period means each period of 12 months commencing from the issue of a licence to transport trackable waste.licence to transport trackable waste means a licence to carry out any scheduled activity that involves the transportation of trackable waste.
43 Putrescible waste landfill sites—supervisory licences
A supervisory licence held under section 87 immediately before the repeal of that section by the amending Act ceases to be in force on the repeal of that section.
44 Time limits for prosecutions
The amendment to section 216 (6) by the amending Act extends to offences under section 120 or 144AB that are alleged to have been committed before the date of commencement of the amendment, but only if proceedings for the offence could have been commenced on that date.
Part 16 Provisions consequent on enactment of Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (No 2) 2017
45 Time limits for prosecutions
The amendment to section 216 (6) by the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (No 2) 2017 extends to offences arising under section 169A or 169B that are alleged to have been committed before the date of commencement of the amendment, but only if proceedings for the offence could have been commenced on that date.
Part 17 Provisions consequent on enactment of Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2018
46 Revocation of licences for logging operations
Any licence under this Act authorising the carrying out of an activity referred to in clause 24 of Schedule 1 to this Act and in force immediately before the repeal of that clause by the Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2018 is, on that repeal, revoked.
47 Continuation of environment protection notices relating to logging operations
The repeal of clause 24 of Schedule 1 to this Act by the Forestry Legislation Amendment Act 2018 does not affect the continued operation of an environment protection notice in force on that repeal and that was issued in connection with the carrying out of an activity referred to in that clause.
Part 18 Provision consequent on enactment of Environment Legislation Amendment Act 2022
48 Definition
In this Part—amended, in relation to a provision, means the provision as in force on and from the date this clause commences.
49 Extended powers to issue clean-up notices
(1) Amended section 91 extends to pollution incidents that occurred, or were occurring, before the date this clause commences.(2) A reference in section 91A(1) to a previous clean-up notice extends to a clean-up notice given before the date this clause commences.
50 Extended powers to issue prevention notices
A reference in section 96A(1) to a previous prevention notice extends to a prevention notice given before the date this clause commences.
51 Extended powers to issue prohibition notices
(1) Amended section 101 extends to activities in relation to which the EPA has, before the date this clause commences, recommended to the Minister that notice be given under section 101.(2) A reference in section 101A(1) to a prohibition notice extends to a prohibition notice given before the date this clause commences.
52 Court orders in connection with offences
Amended section 230 extends to proceedings commenced, but not finally determined, before the date this clause commences.
Part 19 Provisions consequent on enactment of Environmental Legislation Amendment (Hazardous Chemicals) Act 2024
53 Definitions
In this part—environmentally hazardous chemical licence means a licence within the meaning of the Environmentally Hazardous Chemicals Act 1985, as in force immediately before its repeal.repealed Act means the Environmentally Hazardous Chemicals Act 1985.
54 Continuation of chemical control orders and declarations of chemical waste
(1) The repeal of the repealed Act does not affect the continued operation of a chemical control order.(2) On the repeal of the repealed Act, each declared chemical waste is taken to be an environmentally hazardous chemical under this Act.(3) In this clause—chemical control order means an order in force under the repealed Act, section 22 or 23, immediately before its repeal.declared chemical waste means a substance the subject of an order in force under the repealed Act, section 10, immediately before its repeal.
55 Determination of pending applications relating to environmentally hazardous chemical licences
(1) An application for an environmentally hazardous chemical licence made under the repealed Act, but not yet determined on the commencement of this clause, must be determined as if it were an application for an environment protection licence under section 53.(2) An application for the transfer of an environmentally hazardous chemical licence made under the repealed Act, but not yet determined on the commencement of this clause, must be determined as if it were an application for the transfer of an environment protection licence under section 54.(3) A fee paid in relation to an application referred to in subsections (1) and (2) is taken to be a fee paid in relation to the application under this Act.
56 Conversion of environmentally hazardous chemical licences
(1) An environmentally hazardous chemical licence in force immediately before the repeal of the repealed Act is taken to be an environment protection licence issued under this Act (a converted licence).(2) A converted licence is subject to the same conditions, and authorises the same activities, as the environmentally hazardous chemical licence.(3) The appropriate regulatory authority may reissue a converted licence to vary the conditions of the licence in accordance with section 58.(4) A converted licence remains in force, unless sooner surrendered, suspended or revoked, until the end of the period that the environmentally hazardous chemical licence would have remained in force if the licence had not been converted under this clause.(5) The holder of a converted licence does not commit an offence under section 153A if, no later than 3 months after the commencement of this clause, the holder prepares a pollution incident response management plan that complies with Part 5.7A in relation to the activity to which the licence relates.(6) Section 57 does not apply to a converted licence.
57 Determination of pending applications for technology assessments
(1) An application for an assessment of technology made under the repealed Act, but not yet determined on the commencement of this clause, must be determined as if it were an application for an assessment of technology under section 296N.(2) A fee paid in relation to an application referred to in subsection (1) is taken to be a fee paid in relation to the application under this Act.
Part 20 Provisions consequent on enactment of Environment Protection Legislation Amendment (Stronger Regulation and Penalties) Act 2024
58 Definition
In this part—amendment Act means the Environment Protection Legislation Amendment (Stronger Regulation and Penalties) Act 2024.
59 Suspension or revocation of licence
Section 79, as amended by the amendment Act, applies in relation to a contravention of this Act or the regulations that occurred before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[11].
60 Preliminary investigation notices
Part 4.1A, as inserted by the amendment Act, applies in relation to circumstances or a pollution incident that occurred before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[14] in the same way as if the circumstances or pollution incident occurred on or after the commencement of the item.
61 Recall notices
Part 4.2A, as inserted by the amendment Act, applies in relation to a ground mentioned in section 94B that occurred before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[18] in the same way as if the ground occurred on or after the commencement of the item.
62 Variation of notices
Sections 110(2) and 212A(2), as substituted by the amendment Act, apply to a notice issued before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[21] and [51] and in force immediately before the commencement of the items.
63 Tests, environmental monitoring and reports
Section 113, as amended by the amendment Act, applies to a test, environmental monitoring or a report lodged with an appropriate regulatory authority in the same way as if the test, monitoring or report were lodged on or after the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[25] and [26].
64 Illegal dumping
Part 5.6AA, as inserted by the amendment Act, applies in relation to litter or waste deposited before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[40] in the same way as if the litter or waste were deposited on or after the commencement of the item.
65 Littering dangerous material
Section 145A, as substituted by the amendment Act, applies in relation to litter deposited before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[42] in the same way as if the litter were deposited on or after the commencement of the item.
66 Receiving monetary benefits
Section 167B, as amended by the amendment Act, applies to proceedings commenced but not finally determined before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[45].
67 Protected documents
(1) Previous sections 181–183 continue to apply to documents referred to in section 181 in relation to proceedings commenced but not finally determined before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[47].(2) Previous sections 181–183 do not apply to documents prepared before the commencement of the item in relation to proceedings commenced on or after the commencement of the item.(3) In this clause—previous sections 181–183 means sections 181–183 as in force immediately before the repeal of the sections by the amendment Act.
68 Powers of authorised officers
(1) This clause applies if, on or after the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[49], an authorised officer lawfully enters premises under section 198(1).(2) The power of the authorised officer to seize a thing, in accordance with section 198(2)(h) as substituted by the amendment Act, extends to a thing—(a) connected with an offence alleged to have been committed before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[49], or(b) that may present a risk of harm that arose before the commencement of the item.
69 Jurisdictional limits for proceedings in Local Court
Section 215, as amended by the amendment Act, applies to proceedings commenced but not finally determined before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[52].
70 Multiple contraventions
Section 216A, as inserted by the amendment Act, extends to contraventions arising out of circumstances that occurred, or the carrying out of an activity, before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[53] if proceedings in relation to the contraventions had not commenced before the commencement of the item.
71 Court orders
Sections 249, 250A, 251A(4) and (4A) and 253B, as amended, inserted or substituted by the amendment Act, apply to proceedings commenced but not finally determined before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[57]–[61].
72 Evidence of analysts
Sections 262 and 262A, as substituted or inserted by the amendment Act, apply to proceedings commenced but not finally determined before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[66].
73 Resource recovery orders
(1) This clause applies to a resource recovery order issued under a regulation under this Act before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[84].(2) The resource recovery order is, from the commencement of the item, taken to be a resource recovery order issued under section 286A.(3) Without limiting subclause (2), a reference in the following to a resource recovery order made under a regulation under this Act is taken, from the commencement of the item, to be a reference to a resource recovery order issued under section 286A—(a) environment protection legislation,(b) another Act or regulation or an instrument under another Act or regulation,(c) the NSW Energy from Waste Policy Statement dated June 2021 and published in the Gazette on 8 July 2022,(d) the Eligible Waste Fuels Guidelines dated June 2022 and published in the Gazette on 8 July 2022.
74 Resource recovery exemptions
(1) This clause applies to an exemption by, or provided for in, regulations made under section 286 from provisions of this Act or the regulations in relation to an activity, or class of activities, relating to waste that was in force immediately before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[84].(2) The exemption is, from the commencement of the item, taken to be a resource recovery exemption within the meaning of Schedule 6.
75 Information and records under resource recovery exemption or order
Sections 286B and 286C, as inserted by the amendment Act, extend to—(a) a resource recovery exemption or order in force immediately before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[68], and(b) information or records in existence before the commencement of the item.
76 Public warning statements
Section 319B, as inserted by the amendment Act, applies in relation to conduct that occurred before the commencement of the amendment Act, Schedule 9[69] in the same way as if the conduct occurred on or after the commencement of the item.
sch 5: Am 1998 No 54, Sch 1.14 [4]; 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [16]; 1999 No 80, Sch 3.6 [11]; 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [17] [18]; 2000 No 91, Sch 1 [9] [10]; 2001 No 58, Sch 2 [13]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [39] [40]; 2004 No 55, Sch 1.20 [5]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [149]–[151]; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [6]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [22] [23]; 2013 No 60, Sch 1 [9]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [13]; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [16]; 2017 No 63, Sch 1.15 [2]; 2018 No 40, Sch 3.11 [3]; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[80]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[20]; 2024 No 20, Sch 9[80].
Schedule 6 Dictionary
sch 6, hdg (previously Dictionary, heading): Subst 2024 No 20, Sch 9[81].
Note—
The Interpretation Act 1987 contains definitions and other provisions that affect the interpretation and application of this Act.
activity means an industrial, agricultural or commercial activity or an activity of any other nature whatever (including the keeping of a substance or an animal).
air impurity includes smoke, dust (including fly ash), cinders, solid particles of any kind, gases, fumes, mists, odours and radioactive substances.
air pollution means the emission into the air of any air impurity.
aircraft includes a remotely piloted aircraft, an unmanned aircraft system or a drone.
—see section 6.
asbestos has the same meaning as it has in Schedule 1.
asbestos waste has the same meaning as it has in Schedule 1.
means a person appointed under Part 7.2 by an appropriate regulatory authority.
, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AD.
CEO means the Chief Executive Officer within the meaning of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
Chairperson means the Chairperson within the meaning of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
chemical control order has the same meaning as in section 296I(1).
chemical use notice has the same meaning as in section 296F(1).
clean-up action—
(a) in relation to a pollution incident—includes—(i) action to prevent, minimise, remove, disperse, destroy or mitigate pollution resulting or likely to result from the pollution incident, and(ii) ascertaining the nature and extent of the pollution incident and the actual or likely resulting pollution, and(iii) preparing and carrying out a remedial plan of action to deal with the pollution incident, and(iv) actions required to restore the environment to a state that is as close as possible to the state the environment was in immediately before the pollution incident, and(v) carrying out—(A) specified tests or environmental monitoring, and(B) action to facilitate testing by the appropriate regulatory authority, and(vi) giving the appropriate regulatory authority a specified test, monitoring or a report, and
(b) also includes action to remove or store the following—(i) waste disposed of on land unlawfully,(ii) chemicals,(iii) products or articles containing chemicals.
Commonwealth register, for Part 9.3E, Division 1—see section 296.
control equipment means any apparatus or device used or designed—and includes any apparatus or device that, though not so used, is or would, if properly maintained and operated, be capable (without modification) of being so used, but does not include any apparatus or device prescribed as excluded from this definition. An apparatus or device can be control equipment whether or not it is used for additional purposes or designed for other or additional purposes.
(a) to prevent, limit or regulate pollution (including any emission of noise), or
(b) to monitor or to give warning of pollution (including any emission of noise), or
(c) to give warning of any emission, leak, spill or other escape of substances causing pollution,
depositing litter, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AD.
ecologically sustainable development has the same meaning as in section 6 (2) of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
enforcement officer—see section 226.
environment means components of the earth, including—and includes interacting natural ecosystems that include components referred to in paragraphs (a)–(c).
(a) land, air and water, and
(b) any layer of the atmosphere, and
(c) any organic or inorganic matter and any living organism, and
(d) human-made or modified structures and areas,
Note—
This definition follows that in the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
environment protection legislation has the same meaning as in the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
environment protection licence means a licence authorising the carrying out of scheduled development work or scheduled activities or controlling the pollution of water arising from non-scheduled activities, being a licence issued under Chapter 3 and in force.
environment protection notice means a clean-up notice, prevention notice or prohibition notice issued under Chapter 4 and in force.
environmental audit—see section 172.
environmental planning instrument means an environmental planning instrument within the meaning of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
environmental values of water means the environmental values of water specified in the Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality 2018, published by the Australian and New Zealand Governments and State and Territory Governments, as in force from time to time.
environmentally hazardous chemical means a chemical the subject of a chemical control order.
EPA means the Environment Protection Authority constituted by the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991.
exercise a function includes perform a duty.
function includes a power, authority or duty.
green offset scheme—see section 295O.
green offset works—see section 295P.
Green Offsets Fund means the Fund established under section 295U.
harm to the environment includes any direct or indirect alteration of the environment that has the effect of degrading the environment and, without limiting the generality of the above, includes any act or omission that results in pollution.
illegal dumping offence, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AE(2).
industrial chemical, for Part 9.3E, Division 1—see section 296.
Intergovernmental Agreement on the Environment means the agreement made on 1 May 1992 between the Commonwealth, the States, the Australian Capital Territory, the Northern Territory and the Australian Local Government Association (a copy of which is set out in the Schedule to the National Environment Protection Council (New South Wales) Act 1995).
land pollution or pollution of land means placing in or on, or otherwise introducing into or onto, the land (whether through an act or omission) any matter, whether solid, liquid or gaseous—but does not include placing in or on, or otherwise introducing into or onto, land any substance excluded from this definition by the regulations.
(a) that causes or is likely to cause degradation of the land, resulting in actual or potential harm to the health or safety of human beings, animals or other terrestrial life or ecosystems, or actual or potential loss or property damage, that is not trivial, or
(b) that is of a prescribed nature, description or class or that does not comply with any standard prescribed in respect of that matter,
licence means an environment protection licence.
licence application means an application for the issue, transfer, variation or surrender of a licence.
litter, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AD.
means—
(a) a local council (being the council of an area under the Local Government Act 1993), or
(b) the Lord Howe Island Board in relation to Lord Howe Island, or
(c) the Environment Protection Authority in relation to the Western Division, except any part of the Western Division within the area of a local council, or
(d) an authority prescribed by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph for any place not covered above, or
(e) an authority prescribed instead by the regulations for the purposes of this paragraph for any place wholly or partly covered above.
manufacture, for Part 9.3E, Division 1—see section 296.
means the Minister administering the Ports and Maritime Administration Act 1995 or Transport for NSW.
marine park has the same meaning as it has in the Marine Estate Management Act 2014.
monetary benefits means monetary, financial or economic benefits.
motor vehicle has the same meaning as it has in the Road Transport Act 2013.
national environment protection measure means a national environment protection measure made under the National Environment Protection Council (New South Wales) Act 1995 and in force.
means all waters that are from time to time capable of navigation and are open to or used by the public for navigation, whether on payment of a fee or otherwise, but does not include flood waters that have temporarily flowed over the established bank of a watercourse.
noise includes sound and vibration.
noise pollution means the emission of offensive noise.
non-scheduled activity means an activity that is not a scheduled activity and is not scheduled development work.
NSW IChEMS register has the same meaning as in section 296A(1).
occupier of premises means the person who has the management or control of the premises.
offensive noise means noise—
(a) that, by reason of its level, nature, character or quality, or the time at which it is made, or any other circumstances—(i) is harmful to (or is likely to be harmful to) a person who is outside the premises from which it is emitted, or(ii) interferes unreasonably with (or is likely to interfere unreasonably with) the comfort or repose of a person who is outside the premises from which it is emitted, or
(b) that is of a level, nature, character or quality prescribed by the regulations or that is made at a time, or in other circumstances, prescribed by the regulations.
offensive odour means an odour—
(a) that, by reason of its strength, nature, duration, character or quality, or the time at which it is emitted, or any other circumstances—(i) is harmful to (or is likely to be harmful to) a person who is outside the premises from which it is emitted, or(ii) interferes unreasonably with (or is likely to interfere unreasonably with) the comfort or repose of a person who is outside the premises from which it is emitted, or
(b) that is of a strength, nature, duration, character or quality prescribed by the regulations or that is emitted at a time, or in other circumstances, prescribed by the regulations.
open fire or fire in the open means any fire in which the products of combustion are not directed to the open air by a stack or chimney.
open private place, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AD.
owner of a motor vehicle includes the responsible person for the vehicle within the meaning of the Road Transport Act 2013.
owner of waste or other substances does not include (in any provision under which a person commits an offence in the capacity of owner) a financial institution that is acting solely as a holder of a security interest in the waste or other substances. In that case, the person who has control of the waste or other substances is taken to be the owner.
penalty notice—see section 224.
plant means any plant, equipment, apparatus, device, machine or mechanism, and includes any vessel, dredge, unit of rolling stock or crane, but does not include a motor vehicle.
pollution means—
(a) water pollution, or
(b) air pollution, or
(c) noise pollution, or
(d) land pollution.
pollution incident means an incident or set of circumstances during or as a consequence of which there is or is likely to be a leak, spill or other escape or deposit of a substance, as a result of which pollution has occurred, is occurring or is likely to occur. It includes an incident or set of circumstances in which a substance has been placed or disposed of on premises, but it does not include an incident or set of circumstances involving only the emission of any noise.
preliminary investigation compliance notice, for Chapter 4, Part 4.1A—see section 90G(1).
preliminary investigation notice, for Chapter 4, Part 4.1A—see section 90B(2).
premises includes—
(a) a building or structure, or
(b) land or a place (whether enclosed or built on or not), or
(c) a mobile plant, vehicle, vessel or aircraft.
private place means any premises that are not a public place.
protection of the environment policy means a protection of the environment policy made by the Governor under Chapter 2 and in force.
means a public or local authority constituted by or under an Act, and includes—
(a) a government department, or
(b) a statutory body representing the Crown, a State owned corporation or a local council, or
(c) a member of staff or other person who exercises functions on behalf of a public authority.
public place includes—
(a) a public place within the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993, and
(b) a State forest or flora reserve within the meaning of the Forestry Act 2012, and
(c) a national park, state conservation area, historic site, nature reserve, karst conservation reserve, regional park or Aboriginal area within the meaning of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, and
(d) a place that is open to the public, or is used by the public, whether or not on payment of money or other consideration, whether or not the place is ordinarily so open or used, and whether or not the public to whom the place is so open, or by whom the place is so used, consists only of a limited class of persons.
recall cost notice, for Chapter 4, Part 4.2A—see section 94M(1).
recall notice, for Chapter 4, Part 4.2A—see section 94B.
records includes plans, specifications, maps, reports, books and other documents (whether in writing, in electronic form or otherwise).
means the EPA, a local authority or a public authority prescribed for the purposes of section 6 (3).
has the same meaning as in the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth.
has the same meaning as in the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth.
relevant circumstances, for Chapter 4, Part 4.1A—see section 90B(1).
remediation work means work for the remediation, rehabilitation or monitoring of any premises which are or have been the subject of an environment protection licence, being work that is required to be carried out by or under this Act—or both.
(a) while the premises are being used for the purposes to which the licence relates, or
(b) after the premises cease being used for the purpose to which the licence relates,
resource recovery exemption means an exemption—
(a) by, or provided for in, regulations made under section 286 from provisions of this Act or the regulations in relation to an activity, or class of activities, relating to waste, and
(b) in relation to which the regulations expressly state that a resource recovery order is, or may be, made in relation to the exemption.
resource recovery order means an order made under section 286A.
restorative justice activity—see section 250 (1A).
scheduled activity means an activity listed in Schedule 1.
scheduled development work—see section 47.
sell includes—
(a) sell by wholesale, retail, auction or tender, and
(b) barter or exchange, and
(c) supply for profit, and
(d) offer for sale, receive for sale, have in possession for sale or expose or exhibit for sale, and
(e) conduct negotiations for sale, and
(f) consign or deliver for sale, and
(g) cause or permit anything referred to above.
sensitive place, for Chapter 5, Part 5.6AA—see section 144AD.
specify an act, matter or thing, includes—
(a) describe the act, matter or thing, and
(b) specify a class of acts, matters or things.
State includes the Government and the Crown.
substance includes matter or thing.
supply chain participant, for Chapter 4, Part 4.2A—see section 94C(1)(c).
trailer has the same meaning as in the Road Transport Act 2013.
unit of rolling stock means a vehicle designed to run on rails, but does not include a vehicle designed to operate both on and off rails when the vehicle is not operating on rails.
use, for Part 9.3E, Division 1—see section 296.
vessel means any kind of vessel used in navigation.
waste includes—A substance is not precluded from being waste for the purposes of this Act merely because it is or may be processed, recycled, re-used or recovered.
(a) any substance (whether solid, liquid or gaseous) that is discharged, emitted or deposited in the environment in such volume, constituency or manner as to cause an alteration in the environment, or
(b) any discarded, rejected, unwanted, surplus or abandoned substance, or
(c) any otherwise discarded, rejected, unwanted, surplus or abandoned substance intended for sale or for recycling, processing, recovery or purification by a separate operation from that which produced the substance, or
(d) any processed, recycled, re-used or recovered substance produced wholly or partly from waste that is applied to land, or used as fuel, but only in the circumstances prescribed by the regulations, or
(e) any substance prescribed by the regulations to be waste.
waste facility means any premises used for the storage, treatment, processing, sorting or disposal of waste (except as provided by the regulations).
water pollution or pollution of waters means—and, without affecting the generality of the foregoing, includes—if the matter would, had it been placed in any waters, have polluted or have been likely to pollute those waters.
(a) placing in or on, or otherwise introducing into or onto, waters (whether through an act or omission) any matter, whether solid, liquid or gaseous, so that the physical, chemical or biological condition of the waters is changed, or
(b) placing in or on, or otherwise introducing into or onto, the waters (whether through an act or omission) any refuse, litter, debris or other matter, whether solid or liquid or gaseous, so that the change in the condition of the waters or the refuse, litter, debris or other matter, either alone or together with any other refuse, litter, debris or matter present in the waters makes, or is likely to make, the waters unclean, noxious, poisonous or impure, detrimental to the health, safety, welfare or property of persons, undrinkable for farm animals, poisonous or harmful to aquatic life, animals, birds or fish in or around the waters or unsuitable for use in irrigation, or obstructs or interferes with, or is likely to obstruct or interfere with persons in the exercise or enjoyment of any right in relation to the waters, or
(c) placing in or on, or otherwise introducing into or onto, the waters (whether through an act or omission) any matter, whether solid, liquid or gaseous, that is of a prescribed nature, description or class or that does not comply with any standard prescribed in respect of that matter,
(d) placing any matter (whether solid, liquid or gaseous) in a position where—(i) it falls, descends, is washed, is blown or percolates, orinto any waters, onto the dry bed of any waters, or into any drain, channel or gutter used or designed to receive or pass rainwater, floodwater or any water that is not polluted, or(ii) it is likely to fall, descend, be washed, be blown or percolate,
(e) placing any such matter on the dry bed of any waters, or in any drain, channel or gutter used or designed to receive or pass rainwater, floodwater or any water that is not polluted,
waters means the whole or any part of—
(a) any river, stream, lake, lagoon, swamp, wetlands, unconfined surface water, natural or artificial watercourse, dam or tidal waters (including the sea), or
(b) any water stored in artificial works, any water in water mains, water pipes or water channels, or any underground or artesian water.
sch 6 (previously Dictionary): Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [7]; 1999 No 19, Sch 2.32 [6] [7]; 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [17]; 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [19]; 2000 No 53, Sch 1.23 [2]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [41] [42]; 2005 No 11, Sch 3.29 [1] [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [152]–[158]; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [9]; 2006 No 84, Sch 2.13; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [7]; 2008 No 95, Sch 2.9 [1] [2]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [24]; 2012 No 96, Sch 4.30; 2013 No 19, Sch 4.64 [4]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [14]; 2014 No 72, Sch 4.13 [2]; 2017 No 17, Sch 4.79; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [17] [18]; 2017 No 22, Sch 2.35; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [12]; 2020 No 30, Schs 1.35[8], 2.32, 4.77; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[81] [82]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[21]. Renumbered 2024 No 20, Sch 9[81]. Am 2024 No 20, Sch 9[82]–[84].
Dictionary, hdg: Renumbered as Sch 6, heading, 2024 No 20, Sch 9[81].
Dictionary: Am 1998 No 120, Sch 1.35 [7]; 1999 No 19, Sch 2.32 [6] [7]; 1999 No 31, Sch 1.37 [17]; 2000 No 20, Sch 1 [19]; 2000 No 53, Sch 1.23 [2]; 2002 No 14, Sch 2 [41] [42]; 2005 No 11, Sch 3.29 [1] [2]; 2005 No 96, Sch 1 [152]–[158]; 2006 No 58, Sch 1.24 [9]; 2006 No 84, Sch 2.13; 2006 No 120, Sch 1.22 [7]; 2008 No 95, Sch 2.9 [1] [2]; 2011 No 63, Sch 2 [24]; 2012 No 96, Sch 4.30; 2013 No 19, Sch 4.64 [4]; 2014 No 65, Sch 2.1 [14]; 2014 No 72, Sch 4.13 [2]; 2017 No 17, Sch 4.79; 2017 No 21, Sch 3 [17] [18]; 2017 No 22, Sch 2.35; 2018 No 80, Sch 1 [12]; 2020 No 30, Schs 1.35[8], 2.32, 4.77; 2022 No 3, Sch 5[81] [82]; 2024 No 10, Sch 1[21]. Renumbered as Sch 6, 2024 No 20, Sch 9[81].