The introduction of LAPC was swifter than IPC. All operators of LAPC processes needed to apply for an authorisation within a year of the passage of the Environmental Protection (Prescribed Processes and Substances) Regulations 1991.


a. Applying for authorisations under LAPC.

The application procedure is nearly the same as that of IPC regulated processes for those processes that are newly introduced or for any amendments to existing authorisations, apart from the fact that applications go to the relevant local authority (LA). LA's can grant a process authorisation subject to conditions, or refuse it. They are required to lay down conditions that call for the operator of the process to adopt BATNEEC. They are also charged with a duty to ensure that registers of LAPC regulated processes in their area are maintained and open to public access.

There are charges for all LAPC authorisations, which are £1015 for an initial application fee, a fee of £650 for substantial changes and a £625 fee for annual subsistence. (Note, these may change). The scale of fees may be much lower should the process involve the burning of waste oil or was registered previously under the now repealed Alkali Act 1906.

b. The scope of LAPC.

Processes covered by LAPC are typically:

• Glassworks.
• Brickworks.
• Combustion plant.
• Incinerators.
• Concrete batching plant.
• Mineral processes.
• Rubber processes.
• Metal manufacturing operations.
• Various former offensive trades.