United Kingdom · guide · 7 September 2026
Environment Agency site warning explained
A site warning is an informal enforcement tool used by the Environment Agency when a breach or environmental risk is identified that needs prompt action but does not yet warrant formal statutory enforcement. This note explains what a site warning is and what typically happens next. Source: EA enforcement and sanctions policy (OGL v3.0).
What a site warning is
A site warning is a written notice — usually a letter or recorded in the CAR's action notes — telling the permit holder that a breach or risk has been found and must be corrected. It sets out:
- What is wrong.
- What action must be taken.
- A deadline for compliance.
- The consequences of non-compliance (typically escalation to formal enforcement).
A site warning is not a statutory notice. It is an informal, early-stage enforcement step intended to secure compliance quickly without the need for a formal notice or prosecution.
When the EA issues a site warning
The EA may issue a site warning when:
- A breach of permit conditions is identified during an inspection or assessment.
- The risk or impact is not so severe as to require immediate formal enforcement.
- The operator is considered likely to comply if informed of the issue.
- There is no history of repeated non-compliance or deliberate disregard.
The decision to issue a warning rather than a formal notice or prosecution is made under the EA's enforcement and sanctions policy, considering factors such as environmental impact, culpability, compliance history, and operator attitude.
What you must do
You should take the action specified by the deadline given. The EA may require you to provide written or photographic evidence that the work has been completed. In some cases, a follow-up inspection will be scheduled.
What happens if you do not comply
Failure to comply with a site warning can lead to escalated enforcement action, including:
- Formal enforcement notice (statutory).
- Suspension notice or permit variation.
- Civil sanctions (fixed or variable monetary penalty, compliance notice, enforcement undertaking).
- Prosecution.
Non-compliance is also likely to be recorded on the next CAR and will add CCS points to your site's compliance score.
Public register
The EA places site warnings and other enforcement correspondence on the public register for the permit. Warnings for newer permits may also appear on Public Register Online.
What CARBrief does with warnings
If a site warning is referenced on the CAR or enforcement section of your permit file, we note it in the brief and highlight any linked actions or deadlines. We do not advise how to respond or what the enforcement outcome will be.
Common questions
What is a site warning from the Environment Agency?
A site warning is an informal enforcement tool used by the EA when a breach or risk is identified that needs prompt action but does not yet warrant formal enforcement. It sets out what is wrong and what must be done.
Is a site warning a legal notice?
A site warning is not a statutory notice. It is an informal enforcement step. However, failure to comply with a site warning may lead to formal enforcement action such as an enforcement notice, suspension, or prosecution.
Will a site warning appear on the public register?
Yes. The EA places site warnings and other enforcement correspondence on the public register for the permit. They may also appear on Public Register Online for newer permits.