Access to Information

This publication scheme is your guide to accessing information held by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). It tells you what kind of information we have, how you can access it and what your rights are.

The publication scheme is specifically required under the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (section 23). The scheme sets out:

  • information that we routinely make publicly available
  • how we will publish that information
  • if we will provide the information for free or if there is a charge for it.
  • The scheme has to be approved by the Scottish Information Commissioner.

However, we have also included guidance about the Environmental Information Regulations, the Data Protection Act 1998 and other access to information legislation. See below for a quick summary of your rights.

We welcome changes that will make information more accessible, and we will work to comply with the spirit, as well as the letter, contained in the regulations.

Inevitably, with different sets of rules governing information, there is the possibility of confusion or conflicting priorities. Where this occurs, we will aim to choose whichever option favours the enquirer. In other words, we will not use grey areas between the regulations to delay or restrict information release.

Sometimes, it will be necessary for us to withhold information. However, our aim is to be as open and transparent as possible. If we cannot release information we will always try to explain why, along with details of how you can appeal.

If you need help making your request, or you have any special access or format requirements, please contact us.

Freedom of Information ( Scotland ) Act 2002

This act places a responsibility on public authorities like SEPA to

  • improve its information management
  • make as much information available as possible
  • assume that everything is available to the public unless it can demonstrate good reasons why information should be withheld.

From 1 January 2005 , you can request any information, regardless of who you are, where you live or what you want the information for. We must respond to requests within 20 working days.

Most requests will cost nothing but we are entitled to charge depending on how much work is involved. See our charging policy.

Environmental Information ( Scotland ) Regulations 2004

These regulations complement the Freedom of Information Act but are more detailed and deal specifically with a lot of the information held by SEPA. The regulations already apply to SEPA.

Most requests under these regulations will be free and can be dealt with in 20 working days. However, in exceptional circumstances, we are allowed to take up to 40 working days.

Most requests will cost nothing but we are entitled to charge depending on how much work is involved. See our charging policy.

Data Protection Act 1998

You are already entitled to access information about you that is held by us. We must respond to your request promptly, and at most within 40 days. The maximum fee for this is £10. You cannot use this act to access information about other individuals, including SEPA staff.

For more on data protection, and a subject access request form, see our privacy policy page.