One of our clients recently asked a question that, during my research, I realized is quite common. So, I’d like to clarify the confusion between the “Environmental License” and the “Environmental Permit.”

The main difference is that the Environmental License is issued to entities operating in environmental activities — like our company — while the Environmental Permit is granted to projects or establishments that comply with the national environmental standards and regulations.

🌿 In light of the Kingdom’s shift toward a sustainable economy and balanced development, obtaining an environmental permit has become a fundamental requirement for any project or facility that may impact the environment.

This requirement is not limited to industrial projects. It also applies to sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, and water.

✅ What is an Environmental Permit?

An Environmental Permit is an official approval issued by the National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC). It is granted after verifying that the project or facility complies with the approved environmental standards in Saudi Arabia.

Its objectives include:

• Protecting natural resources and ecosystems

• Minimizing pollution and emissions

• Promoting sustainable development

• Ensuring environmental compliance before, during, and after project operation

🗂 Types of Environmental Permits

Environmental permits are categorized into three main types, depending on the level of environmental impact:

1. Category Three – High Environmental Impact

Examples: Large-scale factories, power plants, mining operations, petrochemical plants.

Requirements:

• Full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

• Detailed Environmental Management Plan

• Approvals from relevant authorities

Procedure:

1. Submit application via the Environmental Permit Platform

2. Prepare and upload the EIA through a licensed environmental consultancy

3. NCEC reviews and evaluates the EIA

4. Approval or request for modifications

5. Final permit issuance with a defined validity period

2. Category Two – Medium Environmental Impact

Examples: Food processing factories, large farms, tourism projects, wastewater treatment plants.

Requirements:

• Simplified Environmental Report (or abbreviated EIA)

• Environmental Monitoring and Management Plan

Procedure:

1. Submit application

2. Prepare and submit the simplified report

3. NCEC reviews and assesses the documentation

4. Permit is issued accordingly

3. Category One – Low Environmental Impact

Examples: Small service facilities, low-impact offices or warehouses.

Requirements:

• General Environmental Commitment Form

• No detailed EIA required

Procedure:

1. Register on the platform

2. Fill out and submit the commitment form

3. Fast-track review

4. Immediate permit issuance

📋 Scope of Environmental Permits

A typical environmental permit often includes requirements for:

• Waste Management: Collection, transportation, safe treatment and disposal

• Air Emissions: Emission standards, filtration systems, monitoring tools

• Water & Soil: Wastewater treatment and soil contamination prevention

• Environmental Safety: Emergency response and risk management plans

• Reporting: Regular environmental performance reports

📌 When Do You Need an Environmental Permit?

• When launching a new project in any sector with potential environmental impact

• When renewing a permit for an existing facility

• When changing the nature of your activity or expanding operations

• When relocating your project to a new area

🆚 Environmental Permit vs. Other Specific Permits

The Environmental Permit is a comprehensive approval that covers all environmental aspects of a project.

However, other specific permits such as waste management permits, air emission permits, or effluent discharge approvals may be issued as part of — or following — the main environmental permit.

🌐 Apply Through the Environmental Permits Platform

All applications are submitted through the official NCEC portal:
🔗 https://epermit.ncec.gov.sa

✅ Final Note

Environmental compliance is no longer optional — it is a strategic necessity that enhances your project's sustainability and appeal to investors and stakeholders. The environmental permit is your gateway to ensuring your operations align with the Kingdom’s vision for environmental protection and sustainable development under Vision 2030.

📌 Need help determining your project’s environmental category or preparing the required documentation?

📲 Contact us directly via WhatsApp:
👉 Click here
📞 0556395674

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