Guidance

T10 waste exemption: sorting mixed waste

The T10 exemption allows small organisations, such as charities, to sort recyclable waste so that it can be recovered.

Applies to England

Types of activity you can carry out

These include:

  • a charity collecting mixed aluminium cans and paper to raise money and it needs to separate them
  • collecting and sorting small amounts of mixed recyclable waste

Types of activity you cannot carry out

You cannot:

  • bale or shred the waste (see related exemptions)
  • accept waste that is mixed with a type of waste that is not permitted
  • accept waste that is contaminated with biodegradable waste

Types of waste you can treat

The waste codes are those listed in the List of Wastes (LoW) Regulations. You need to make sure your waste fits within the relevant waste code and description.

Waste code Type of waste
150101, 200101 Paper and cardboard
150102, 200139 Plastics
150104, 200140 Metals
150105 Composite packaging
150106 Mixed packaging
150107, 200102 Glass
150109, 200110, 200111 Textiles and clothing only

Amount of waste you can treat

You can:

  • store up to 10 tonnes at any one time
  • treat up to 10 tonnes within any 7-day period

Key conditions

You can sort one type of the waste from another.

The waste must be stored in a secure place.

Related exemptions

You could register the following exemptions for further treating or using the waste once it has been sorted:

Register a T10 exemption

You need to register this exemption with the Environment Agency if you meet the requirements:

If you want to treat more than the amount of waste allowed under this exemption or treat mixtures of waste not listed above, you must apply for an environmental permit.

Definitions

Hazardous waste – see How to classify different types of waste.

Secure – a container, lagoon or other place is secure in relation to waste kept in it if:

  • all reasonable precautions are taken to make sure the waste can’t escape
  • members of the public can’t gain access to the waste
Published 28 April 2014