The Natural Resources Conservation Authority/National Environment and Planning Agency (NRCA/NEPA) has announced that it is giving businesses operating without the requisite permits and licences one month to comply.

The period began on December 1 and will continue until the end of the year.

The regulator said business operators are being encouraged to move swiftly to apply for:

• 2016 – 2017 beach licences;

• Air quality licences;

• Licences for the construction/operation of sewage treatment plants;

• Environmental permits; and

• All relevant instruments to ensure compliance with environment and planning laws.

Business operators and developers are also being encouraged to collect permits and licences that have been approved by the NRCA. Chief executive officer at NEPA, Peter Knight, warned that those who remain non-compliant after the period will face legal action.

He added that business operators who are not sure if they require permits or licences to operate should contact NEPA for guidance.