Strengthened waste crime laws to be laid in Parliament this week

The laws will bring in checks that require waste handlers to prove that they are qualified to transport waste.

The system will be brought into force in 2027 and will see waste handlers undergo identity, criminal record and technical checks before receiving a permit.

Permit numbers will then need to be displayed in advertising, including on their vans, in order to make it easier for the public to report unlicensed operators.

Waste Minister Mary Creagh said: “Waste cowboys have abused the system for too long, blighting our countryside and cities alike.

“Through our Waste Crime Action Plan, we’re introducing rigorous background checks for waste traders, shutting down corrupt operators and kicking them out of the industry for good.

“This is just one measure we’re introducing to stamp out waste crime, with law breakers now facing up to five years behind bars thanks to tougher penalties.”

Those found to be mishandling waste will now face up to five years in prison, and the Environment Agency will have stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices.

The key changes that will be brought into force in 2027 will include:

• Registration to permits – Operators will move from a simple registration system to a permit-based system, meaning they must actively demonstrate they meet requirements to operate, rather than just registering their details.
• Enhanced background checks – All operators will be required to undergo identity and criminal record checks, helping to prevent organised criminals from entering the sector.
• Technical competence – Operators must demonstrate they are competent to transport or make decisions about waste, a requirement that does not exist under the current system.
• Stronger enforcement powers – The Environment Agency will have greater powers to revoke permits, issue enforcement notices. The permit system will be self-funding, with permit fees covering the cost of regulation.
• Penalties – There are currently no custodial sentences for illegally transporting or dealing in waste. This SI will introduce penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment.
• Permit number display – Operators will be required to display their permit number in advertising, including branding on vans, making it easier to identify and report unlicensed operators.

The changes come as part of the government’s Waste Crime Action Plan, which was released in late March 2026.

It included a £45 million boost to help the Environment Agency crack down on rogue waste handlers.

Philip Duffy, Chief Executive at the Environment Agency, added: “Waste crime is evolving, but so are we. These reforms give us the tools we need to fight back.

“With stronger powers to revoke permits and issue enforcement notices, we will move faster to shut down rogue operators and protect communities from the damage waste crime causes.

“The public are our eyes and ears. If you see fly-tipping or suspect an unlicensed operator, you must report it.”

Waste crime is estimated to cost the English economy around £1 billion annually, with roughly 20% of waste thought to be handled illegally.

Recent figures from the Environmental Services Association (ESA) indicate the cost may actually be as much as £2 billion.

The National Waste Crime Conference takes place on 3 November 2026 in London. The one-day event will bring together professionals from across enforcement, regulation, local government and the waste industry to examine the challenges posed by waste crime and the sector’s response to the new regulatory landscape. Find out more and register your interest here.