Intensive pig and poultry farming: how to comply with your permit

The UK Environment Agency has published essential guidance for holders of environmental permits engaged in intensive pig and poultry farming. Updated on 9 October 2026, the document outlines the necessary standards and appropriate measures required to control the risk of pollution to air, land, and water.

According to the regulatory requirements, compliance with these standards is mandatory for all intensive livestock farming permit holders. Operators must follow this guidance alongside the specific conditions set out within their environmental permit to ensure full adherence to environmental regulations.

The guidance is structured into several core sections covering different regulatory domains. Section 1 details the management requirements that operators must implement on their agricultural premises, while section 2 focuses on daily operational standards.

Section 3 sets out the framework for managing emissions and conducting environmental monitoring across intensive farming facilities. Section 4 provides clear instructions regarding the information and reporting requirements that permit holders must fulfill.

For agricultural operators requiring assistance or clarification, support is available through local Environment Agency officers or via general statutory enquiries to address specific questions regarding permit compliance.