RenewableCentral Government

Environmental Clearance / Consent to Operate

Clearance from State/Central Pollution Control Board for industries and projects that may impact the environment.

Department: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) / State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)Processing: 30-90 working days

About this License

Environmental Clearance is required for certain categories of industries and projects under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 and the Water/Air Acts. The State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) issues Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO). Industries are categorized as Red, Orange, Green, and White based on pollution potential. White category industries are exempt from consent requirements.

Application Process

Categorize your industry (Red/Orange/Green/White) → Apply for CTE on SPCB/CPCB online portal → Submit all required documents and project details → Pay the prescribed fee → Inspection by PCB officials → CTO application after establishing pollution control measures

Industry Categorization

Determine your industry category (Red/Orange/Green/White)

Apply for CTE

Submit Consent to Establish application before construction

Inspection

PCB officials inspect site and equipment plans

Get CTE

Consent to Establish issued upon compliance

Apply for CTO

After establishing pollution control measures, apply for Consent to Operate

Eligibility Criteria

1Any industry with pollution potential (Red, Orange, Green categories)
2White category industries are exempt (no pollution)
3Must have valid CTE (Consent to Establish) before starting construction
4Must have valid CTO (Consent to Operate) before starting production
5Must comply with emission and effluent standards

Documents Required

Site clearance and land documents

Project report with environmental impact assessment (if applicable)

Water and air balance diagrams

Details of pollution control equipment

Manufacturing process details

NOC from local authority

CTE application (Form I) / CTO application (Form I)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which industries need environmental clearance?

A: Red, Orange, and Green category industries. White (non-polluting) are exempt.

Q: What is the difference between CTE and CTO?

A: CTE is needed before building/installing equipment. CTO is needed before starting production.

Quick Information

Estimated Cost: ₹5,000 - ₹50,000 (varies by category)
Processing Time: 30-90 working days
Validity: 1-15 years as per category
Renewal: 1-5 years (varies by category)
Level: central
Department: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) / State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)

Fee Structure

CTE/CTO Fee (varies by category and state)₹5,000 - ₹50,000

Important Links

Apply Online Official Website