The application process

All applications for hazardous substances and new organisms are evaluated by a decision-making committee of the EPA. The committee must take certain matters into account when deciding on these applications, including the health, economic, social and cultural well-being of all people and communities in New Zealand, and the relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions..

Public submissions may be invited and a public hearing may be held before a decision-making committee approves or declines the application. This will depend on the type of application.

The decision may also place special conditions, or controls, on the substance or organism to manage its environmental effects and risks. All users must comply with these conditions.

After a decision is made, the applicant and submitters are notified and the decision is made available to the public.

A decision can be reassessed if grounds for doing so can be demonstrated.

EPA recovers part of the cost of processing applications through its fees and charges.