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Regulations for Vehicle Refinishers

Vehicle refinishing activities and paints must adhere to the European Union (Paints, Varnishes, Vehicle Refinishing Products and Activities) Regulations 2012, S.I. No. 564 of 2012.

Local authorities issue certificates of compliance for up to 3 years. The application fee payable by operators to their Local Authority is €70 for new applications (€50 for renewals). If an operator does not renew their certificate of compliance prior to its expiry date, they must then apply for a new certificate.

Authorised persons have the powers to seize prohibited refinishing products and the person from whom they were seized will be liable for the cost of the disposal of these products. The fine for uncertified operators is €5000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

In order to obtain a certificate under these regulations, an operator must first arrange for an approved assessor, to review their operations and obtain a compliant report. Operators must then submit this report along with a completed application form and fee to Cavan County Council for assessment.

It is illegal for any uncertified operator to carry out an activity for which a certificate of compliance is required under these regulations. Any such operators should arrange for inspection immediately. Similarly, any paint suppliers supplying non-compliant paint are also committing an offence. The EPA in conjunction with Cavan County Council will be continuing enforcement activities.

Further information can be obtained from the Environment Section of Cavan County Council on 049 437 8486 or alternatively at environ@cavancoco.ie

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