United Kingdom · guide · 24 September 2026
Waste acceptance findings on a CAR
Waste sites must only accept wastes their permit allows, with correct pre-acceptance checks and documentation. When officers record acceptance breaches on a Compliance Assessment Report (CAR), the wording ties EWC codes, transfer notes, and quarantine procedures back to permit conditions. This guide helps you read those findings as printed.
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Typical acceptance findings
- Waste type outside permit — material not listed in permit schedule or standard rules set.
- Wrong or missing EWC codes — on transfer notes or inbound records — see waste transfer notes explained.
- Pre-acceptance procedure not followed — no visual inspection, WAC data, or quarantine of suspect loads.
- Incompatible wastes co-stored — overlaps with FPP findings.
- Exemption vs permit confusion — activity exceeds exemption limits — what is a waste exemption.
Permit type matters
Acceptance rules differ between standard rules and bespoke permits. Standard rules sets list allowed waste codes; bespoke permits may reference site-specific acceptance procedures. Read which regime applies before comparing generic guidance.
Link findings to conditions
Each CAR row should cite a condition number — linking CAR findings to permit conditions, how to read a permit, find permit online.
Scoring and follow-up
Acceptance breaches may score on foreseeable or actual impact. Read printed C1–C4 categories — CCS scores. Actions may require immediate quarantine and written procedures within a deadline — response deadlines, after a CAR.
Reading checklist
- Identify each waste acceptance non-compliance row.
- Match cited EWC codes to permit schedule.
- Review transfer note samples officers reference.
- Note category, points, and actions separately per row.
- Track fee-band impact — can scores increase fees.
Questions
What are common waste acceptance findings on a CAR?
Wrong EWC codes, wastes outside permit scope, missing pre-acceptance checks, or inadequate quarantine of suspect loads.
How do acceptance findings link to permit conditions?
CAR rows cite conditions on allowed waste types and pre-acceptance procedures. Pull schedule text from the Public Register.
Does CARBrief advise on waste rejection disputes?
No. CARBrief organises published CAR wording. Not enforcement strategy or legal advice.
Order a brief How to read a CAR
Last reviewed 24 September 2026. Not legal advice.