What is MPCB Consent?

MPCB Consent is a mandatory environmental approval issued by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to industries, factories, commercial establishments, healthcare facilities, and other businesses that may generate air emissions, wastewater, hazardous waste, or noise pollution. The consent is granted under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. It ensures that businesses operate in compliance with environmental regulations and adopt adequate pollution control measures before commencing or expanding operations.

Types of MPCB Consent

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board primarily issues two types of consent:

1. Consent to Establish (CTE)

Consent to Establish (CTE) is the approval that must be obtained before setting up an industry, factory, project, or commercial establishment. It confirms that the proposed unit complies with environmental norms, land-use regulations, and pollution control requirements before construction or installation begins. Without CTE, businesses are generally not permitted to start establishing the project.

2. Consent to Operate (CTO)

Consent to Operate (CTO) is required after the project has been established and before commercial operations begin. The MPCB issues CTO after verifying that all required pollution control systems have been installed and environmental conditions specified in the CTE have been fulfilled. Businesses must renew CTO periodically to continue operating legally.