Waste regulations

Waste regulations in NSW

In NSW, acts and regulations govern waste management. Those who handle, store, transport, process, recycle and dispose of waste must follow these rules to minimise harm to human health and the environment. The EPA provides leadership to ensure NSW has a fair, modern and well-regulated waste industry.

Waste legislation in NSW

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

The principal environmental protection legislation for NSW is the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act). The act

defines 'waste' for regulatory purposes
establishes management and licensing requirements for waste
defines offences relating to waste and sets penalties
establishes the ability to set various waste management requirements via the Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014 (Waste Regulation)

Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2014

The Waste Regulation allows the EPA to protect human health and the environment, and provides a platform for a modern and fair waste industry.

It includes strict thresholds for environment protection licences, and outlines the waste levy system.

Read more about the Waste Regulation

Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001

The Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 (WARR Act) promotes waste reduction and better use of our resources in NSW. It includes provisions for waste strategies and programs, and for industry actions to reduce waste.