Pollution NOC Registration Process in India – Complete Guide

To operate an industrial or commercial business in India, obtaining a Pollution No Objection Certificate (NOC) or Consent to Establish/Operate from the concerned State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC) is mandatory. This certificate ensures compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

Step-by-step guide to Pollution NOC registration in India:

Step 1 : Determine the Category of Your Industry

Industries are categorized based on pollution potential:

- Red Category – High pollution risk (e.g., Chemical, Pharmaceuticals, Dye Industries)

- Orange Category – Moderate pollution risk (e.g., Food Processing, Packaging)

- Green Category – Low pollution risk (e.g., Small-scale units, Service sectors)

- White Category – Minimal pollution (Exempt from NOC but must notify SPCB)

Check your industry’s category on the CPCB website or your State Pollution Control Board’s portal.

Step 2 : Obtain Necessary Approvals Before Applying

- CTE (Consent to Establish) – Required before setting up the unit.

- CTO (Consent to Operate) – Required after construction but before starting operations.

Documents Required for Pollution NOC

- For CTE (New Units):

- Duly filled application form

- Site plan/layout plan

- Project report

- Proof of ownership/lease agreement

- Water & air pollution control details

- Industry registration proof (GST, MSME, etc.)

- ETP/STP details (if applicable)

- PAN & Aadhaar of the applicant

- For CTO (Existing Units):

- CTE copy

- Environmental clearance (if applicable)

- Water & air pollution test reports

- Hazardous waste authorization (if applicable)

- Factory/Trade license

Online Application Process

Most SPCBs provide an online portal for NOC registration. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Register on the SPCB Portal

- Visit your State Pollution Control Board’s website (e.g., [MPPCB](https://mppcb.nic.in/), [KSPCB](https://kspcb.karnataka.gov.in/)).

- Create an account as an industry/business owner.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

- Select Consent to Establish (CTE) or Consent to Operate (CTO).

- Enter industry details, location, and pollution control measures.

Step 3: Upload Documents

- Upload all required documents in PDF format.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

- Fees vary based on industry category, size, and state.

- Payment can be made via online banking, UPI, or demand draft.

Step 5: Inspection & Approval

- The SPCB may conduct a site inspection.

- If compliant, the NOC is issued within 30-60 days.

Validity & Renewal

CTE: Valid for 1-5 years (depends on state).

CTO: Requires renewal every 5 years (for Red/Orange) or 10 years (for Green).

Apply for renewal at least 120 days before expiry.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

- Operating without a Pollution NOC can lead to:

- Fines (₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000+)

- Business shutdown

- Legal action under Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 & Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981