Apply for an environmental permit
Permit for the construction and operation of facilities requiring a permit under the Federal Clean Air Act (e.g., industrial facilities).
How to proceed
- 1
Prepare application documents
Including a description of the facility, emission projections, and, if applicable, expert reports.
- 2
Submit the application to the appropriate authority
Depending on the type of facility, either the State Office of Labor and Industrial Safety or the State Environmental Protection Agency.
- 3
Public participation (in formal proceedings)
Public review of the documents and public hearing.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 9 months
Official: max. approx. 7 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • The application documents do not comply with the 9th BImSchV (Application Regulation)
- • Required reports (noise, air pollutants) are missing
Common reasons for rejection
- • Limits for noise, air pollutants, or odors are being exceeded
- • The location is not permitted under planning regulations
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Operators of facilities listed in the 4th Federal Immission Control Ordinance (BImSchV) as requiring a permit.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 9 months
Success rate
approx. 70.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The application documents do not comply with the 9th BImSchV (Application Regulation)
- •Required reports (noise, air pollutants) are missing
Common reasons for rejection
- •Limits for noise, air pollutants, or odors are being exceeded
- •The location is not permitted under planning regulations
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.