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New EPA EIA requirements for IE/IPC license applications



 
The following significant changes regarding EIA requirements when applying for a licence have recently been introduced by the EPA:
 
• Where the activity which is the subject of the licence/review application does not require Planning Permission the EPA requires confirmation in writing from the planning authority (Exemption Certificate) stating that this is the case.
• Where the activity which is the subject of the licence/review application has never required previous planning permission the EPA requires a letter of confirmation from the planning authority and/or An Bord Pleanála, stating that this is the case. Confirmation is also required whether an EIA has been carried out for any part of the site of the activity.
• Where the activity which is the subject of the licence/review application requires planning permission the EPA requires confirmation in writing from the planning authority or An Bord Pleanála stating that an EIA was not required as part of planning. 
• Where the activity which is the subject of the licence/review application requires planning permission and an EIS is required then the requirements surrounding the EIS vary depending on the date of the applicant’s previous determination.
• For new licence applications OR review applications where the last licence (excluding reviews initiated by the EPA) was determined before 30th September 2012 and where planning permission has been/is required for the site of the activity, applicants must submit the most recent EIS associated with a planning application or planning permission for the site of the activity.  
 
• For review applications where the last licence (excluding reviews initiated by the EPA) was determined after 30th September 2012 there is only a requirement to submit the most recent EIS which has arisen through the planning process since the last licence review.  The planning decision and planners report associated with this EIS should also be submitted.
 
 
July 2015