Every UK business that produces waste needs one — here’s what it is and how to stay on the right side of the law.
If your business produces any waste, the law requires you to document how that waste is transferred and disposed of. That record is called a Waste Transfer Note (WTN). It proves you handed your waste to a properly licensed carrier — a core part of your Duty of Care.
A waste transfer note is a document that records the transfer of waste from one party to another. It travels with your waste each time it changes hands — from your business to the collector, and on to the disposal or recycling site. It exists so waste can be traced and can’t be fly-tipped or dumped illegally.
Every business in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland that produces, holds, imports, carries, treats or disposes of waste. That includes offices, shops, restaurants, salons — effectively any commercial premises. Household waste from a normal home is exempt, but home-based businesses are not.
Many providers issue an annual “season ticket” WTN that covers regular, identical collections for up to 12 months, rather than a note per collection.
You must keep waste transfer notes for at least two years and be able to produce them if the Environment Agency or your local council asks. Keep them somewhere safe — digital copies are fine.
Failing to hold a valid waste transfer note is a criminal offence and can lead to a fixed penalty or an unlimited fine. If your waste is fly-tipped by an unlicensed carrier, you can also be held responsible.
When you arrange collections through our network, your provider is a fully registered waste carrier and the correct documentation is handled for you. Request a free quote and we’ll make sure you’re compliant from day one.
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