This exemption replaces the old paragraph 12 exemptions and allows for the small scale composting of  green garden waste, cardboard and food waste. All projects which were previously registered as paragraph 12 exempt will benefit from a transition period and will have until 1^st Oct 2011 before having to register for and comply with the new exemption. 

Most small community-composters will be eligible for this exemption. There are two separate limits on the amount of waste (including finished compost) you can have on site at anyone time depending on your circumstances:

• You can store and treat up to 80 tonnes if the waste is produced on site, and the finished compost will be used on site

Or

• You can store and treat up to 60 tonnes if the waste is produced at a different site, and/or the finished compost will be used on a different site

Within these limits there is also a further limitation on the amount of certain waste types that you can have on site at anyone time (for example you are only allowed up to 20tonnes of manure and 10tonnes of kitchen waste). The CCN decision tree provides more detailed information on exactly what is and isn't allowed, and will help you determine if you are eligible for an exemption: T23 exemption decision tree (.pdf 65KB)

You can also use the tonnage calculator to help determine how much waste you are likely to have on site at anyone time: tonnage calculator (.xls 70KB).

Eligible community composters can register with the EA for free (link included below). If you are not eligible please read the guidance on standard permits.

additional info

• Link to EA guidance on T23 exemption (.pdf)
• Link to free online registration for exemptions