Construction site run-off
This activity applies to the discharge of water run-off from a construction site to the water environment, including any constructed access tracks, where the activity is not authorised by General Binding Rule 10D.
Authorisation level
Permit
Public consultation
We may publicly consult on applications that, due to their nature or location, have higher likelihood of environmental impact and community impact.
Read more about public participation and engagement
Fit and Proper Person tests
Fit and Proper Person tests apply to this activity. You will be asked in your application if you have any relevant convictions held by you or any additional persons.
Read more about Fit and Proper Person tests
Permit conditions
Permits may contain both standard conditions and conditions specific to the activity and location. The conditions of your permit will be decided when we assess your application. This is to ensure that the appropriate limits and controls are in place to minimise pollution and protect the environment.
If you carry out an activity under a permit authorisation you must comply with the conditions set out in your authorisation. It is an offence if you do not comply with the conditions.
SEPA will not authorise this activity if it poses an unacceptable risk to the environment.
Fees and charges
An application fee applies to the application of a new authorisation for this activity.
An annual activity fee applies to this activity. Read our charging information for further information on annual activity fees.
Large and complex construction projects are charged on a time and materials basis. These are defined as projects that undertake one or more activities (including the discharge of water run-off from a construction site to the water environment) and are:
- A project (or part of a project) that is a National Development, as identified in the National Planning Framework.
- An onshore electricity generating station, wind farm or power station with a capacity of greater than 50 megawatts.
- A linear project greater than 25km in length.
Information on the application fees to transfer, vary or surrender a permit that authorises this activity, is in our charging information.
How to apply
In this section you can find out how to apply for a new authorisation, and how to apply for a variation, transfer and surrender of an existing authorisation.
New applications
If you are applying for new permit, we would encourage you to contact us with any pre-application enquiries before submitting your application.
Step 1: Download your activity form
You’ll need to download and complete the following activity form. The completed form will be submitted as part of your application:
Step 2: Provide supporting information
For a new permit, you’ll also need to provide the following supporting information:
- Location plan
- Non-technical summary of your application
- Justification for chemicals used to treat water run-off
- Material Safety Data Sheets for chemicals used
Step 4: Submitting using our digital application service
You can submit your completed application using our digital application service.
Make an application for a new authorisationYou can apply to vary an existing permit for this activity.
Step 1: Download your variation form
You will need to download and complete the following variation form. The completed form will be submitted as part of your application:
Step 2: Submit your application for a variation
You can apply to transfer an existing permit for this activity.
Step 1: Download your transfer form
You will need to download and complete the following transfer form. The completed form will be submitted as part of your application:
Step 2: Submit your application
Read transfer an existing authorisation to find out how to submit your application for a transfer.
To apply to surrender an existing permit that authorises this activity, read Surrender an authorisation.