SIC code to
waste mapper
Enter your SIC code or describe your business activity to see which waste streams you are likely to produce, the relevant EWC codes, and your compliance obligations.
Find your waste profile
Type a SIC code (e.g. 41202) or describe the business to see its waste streams, EWC codes and obligations.
Browse all 731 SIC codes by section
AAgriculture, forestry and fishing40
BMining and quarrying16
CManufacturing259
DElectricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply8
EWater supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities9
FConstruction25
GWholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles103
HTransportation and storage33
IAccommodation and food service activities13
JInformation and communication32
KFinancial and insurance activities34
LReal estate activities6
MProfessional, scientific and technical activities33
NAdministrative and support service activities44
OPublic administration and defence; compulsory social security9
PEducation12
QHuman health and social work activities13
RArts, entertainment and recreation17
SOther service activities19
TActivities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and services-producing activities of households for own use4
UActivities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies2
How to use this tool
- Find your SIC code on Companies House, or describe what the business does.
- Pick your 5-digit code (or browse by section) to see typical waste streams and EWC codes.
- Use the codes on your Waste Transfer Notes, and check anything marked hazardous.
Profiles are typical for each SIC division and are guidance only. Always classify the actual waste you produce; it is not legal advice.
Common questions
SIC codes and
waste obligations
What is a SIC code and why does it matter for waste?
A Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code is a 5-digit code used by Companies House and HMRC to classify your business activity. Different industries produce different types of waste, and your SIC code helps determine which waste regulations apply to you, including which EWC codes to use on Waste Transfer Notes and whether you are likely to produce hazardous waste.
Do all businesses need a Waste Transfer Note?
Yes. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (Section 34), any business that produces, carries, keeps, treats or disposes of controlled waste has a duty of care. Every time waste is transferred to another person, a Waste Transfer Note (WTN) must be completed. This applies to virtually every business regardless of SIC code, from offices producing paper waste to construction sites generating demolition materials.
How do I find my SIC code?
Your SIC code is listed on your Companies House registration. You can look it up on the Companies House website by searching for your company name. If you are a sole trader, choose the SIC code that best describes your main business activity. The Office for National Statistics publishes the full SIC 2007 classification with descriptions of each code.
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Know your waste. Document the transfer.
Now that you know what waste your business produces, create a legally-compliant Waste Transfer Note. Free, takes under two minutes, no account required.