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Intensive farming (pigs and poultry) - home page

Pig and poultry production is a vital part of UK agriculture and accounts for around one fifth of total agricultural output.

Pig and poultry farms can affect the environment through the release of pollutants. These include:

  • ammonia
  • nutrients from manure, litter and slurry
  • effluent discharges
  • dust
  • odour
  • noise

Environmental permitting for intensive farming

We regulate intensive pig and poultry farms under the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR). These were formerly called the Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) Regulations.

Farms that exceed capacity thresholds require an environmental permit to operate.

 If you are unsure whether you require a permit please contact your local Environment Agency officer. To find out who to talk to call our National Customer Contact Centre on 0370 8506506

  • Making an application
    You need to fill in the application form if you want to apply for a new permit or if you want to change, transfer or surrender your permit.
  • Ammonia
    Find out about emissions of ammonia from pig and poultry farms and what you must do if you have to produce an emission reduction plan.
  • How we work together
    Find out how we consult with the public and relevant organisations on applications for permits.