Guidance

Storing, treating and using asphalt waste: RPS 157

Environment Agency regulatory position on when you can store, treat and use asphalt waste without an environmental permit.

Documents

Details

This regulatory position statement (RPS) does not change your legal requirement to have an environmental permit when you store and treat bitumen-based asphalt waste or asphalt waste containing coal tar (AWCCT) either:

  • at a site with a Part B mobile plant permit from a local authority
  • when you use AWCCT in construction activities

However, the Environment Agency will not normally take enforcement action if you do not comply with this legal requirement if you meet the requirements in the RPS.

The regulatory position does not apply to any other legal requirements.

Updates to this page

Published 27 June 2019
Last updated 25 June 2025 show all updates
  1. This RPS has been updated to: clarify where the RPS applies; include RPS 75 using treated asphalt waste; amend the quantities of asphalt waste containing coal tar (AWCCT) allowed for storage; introduce a requirement to notify the Environment Agency each time the RPS is used; and clarify the position for storage and treatment of non-hazardous bitumen-based asphalt waste (BBAW). It will next be reviewed by 31 December 2026.

  2. We have added the following text: a) This regulatory position statement only applies to storing and treating asphalt at the same site where it is to be cold mix coated, and where the treatment consists of crushing, grinding, screening, grading or mixing. b) This RPS does not apply to any other activity, even if it is under the same legislation. You may still need other permits or licences for other activities you carry out. c) You must keep records for 2 years that show you have complied with this RPS. You must make these records available to the Environment Agency on request.

  3. We have made minor changes for clarity. We have also included the definition of a sealed drainage system.

  4. First published.

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