EPA warns about on-the-spot fines

Local Authorities have recently been given powers to issue on-the-spot fines of between €500 and €1,000 to operators of non-compliant bodyshops and suppliers of non-compliant automotive paints, the Environmental Protection Agency has warned.

All such operators are advised to ensure that they are in compliance with the requirements of the Decorative Paints Regulations (S.I. No. 564 of 2012). In particular all bodyshops must apply for and obtain a Certificate of Compliance from their local authority, while paint suppliers must ensure that they only supply compliant and properly labelled products.

Bodyshops are reminded that they should allow plenty of time for renewal of their certificate of compliance.

Further information on these regulations and how to comply are available on the EPA website at www.decopaints.ie.

Non-compliance with the requirements of these regulations is an offence and may lead to court prosecution, imposition of a court fine of up to €5,000 and/or 6 months in prison.
Please provide details of non-compliant bodyshops or paint suppliers to your Approved Assessor or to your local authority directly, or by phoning the National Environmental Complaints Line (in confidence) on 1850 365 121.