Register as a waste carrier, broker or dealer in Scotland

Anyone who transports, buys, sells or arranges the movement of waste for others must be registered. This applies to businesses and individuals alike, whether waste is handled on a one-off or ongoing basis.

Start now

Takes about 15 minutes. A debit or credit card is required.

Who must register

  • Carriers — you transport waste as part of your business, or you transport waste belonging to someone else.
  • Brokers — you arrange for other people to collect, recycle or dispose of waste.
  • Dealers — you buy and sell waste, including where the waste never comes into your possession.

Which tier you need

Upper tier applies if you transport, buy, sell or dispose of waste produced by other businesses or households, or if you carry construction and demolition waste. Upper tier registration lasts 3 years and must be renewed.

Lower tier applies if you only carry your own waste (unless it is construction or demolition waste), or if you are a charity, voluntary organisation, waste collection authority, or you carry animal by-products or agricultural waste. Lower tier registration does not expire.

What it costs

The fee depends on the activity you register for and whether you are applying for the first time or renewing. Prices include the statutory registration fee and our service fee.

Registration fees
RegistrationNewRenewalValid for
Waste Carrier (Single) (Upper Tier)Transporting waste produced by others as a commercial service.£395.00£245.00Every 3 years
Waste Broker (Single) (Upper Tier)Arranging the disposal or recovery of waste on behalf of others.£395.00£245.00Every 3 years
Combined Carrier & Broker (Upper Tier)Both carrying waste for others and acting as a broker or dealer.£790.00£582.00Every 3 years
Lower Tier Waste Licence RegistrationFor businesses carrying only their own waste (excluding construction and demolition waste), charities, waste collection authorities and agricultural waste carriers.£75.00Not requiredDoes not expire

What you'll need

  • your business name, address and type (sole trader, partnership or company)
  • your company registration number, if you have one
  • the name, email address and phone number of a responsible contact
  • details of any relevant environmental offences or convictions
  • a debit or credit card to pay

This service is provided independently. It is not operated by, or affiliated with, the SEPA or any government department. Our service fee is charged in addition to the statutory registration fee, and you can apply directly with SEPA yourself.