Waste Management Licences — questions
Waste management licence frequently asked questions
Most questions about waste licences concern which category applies and how long the process takes. Below are direct answers based on the National Environmental Management: Waste Act 59 of 2008 and Government Notice 921 of 2013.
What is the difference between a Category A and Category B waste licence?
Category A covers smaller scale or lower risk activities, decided provincially after a Basic Assessment. Category B covers larger scale or higher risk activities, decided nationally after a Scoping and Environmental Impact Report.
Do I need a waste licence for a small recycling operation?
Not always. Some smaller activities fall under published norms and standards or require only registration rather than a full licence, but this depends on volume and waste type under GN 921 of 2013.
How long does a waste management licence take?
A Category A licence with a Basic Assessment realistically takes six to ten months. A Category B licence with Scoping and EIR realistically takes twelve to twenty months.
What law governs waste management licensing in South Africa?
The National Environmental Management: Waste Act 59 of 2008, with the listed activities and categories set out in Government Notice 921 of 2013 as amended.
Can a waste management licence be suspended?
Yes. Section 51 of NEMWA allows the licensing authority to suspend or revoke a licence for non-compliance with its conditions.
Who decides Category A applications versus Category B?
Category A applications are decided by the relevant provincial environmental department, while Category B applications are decided by the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
What happens if I operate without the correct waste licence?
It is a criminal offence under NEMWA and can also trigger a section 24G-style rectification process if the activity is also a listed activity under the EIA Regulations.
Does hazardous waste always need Scoping and EIR?
Not always. Hazardous waste activities below the Category B threshold set out in GN 921 of 2013 can still fall under Category A with a Basic Assessment.
What ongoing obligations does a waste licence carry?
Typical conditions include monitoring, annual reporting, financial provision for closure and rehabilitation, and periodic compliance audits.
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Last reviewed: 2026-09-17
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