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Glossary termPublished inIED 2.0

General binding rules

Also known as algemene bindende voorschriften

What does "General binding rules" mean under the IED?

Emission limit values or other conditions, at least at sector level, that are adopted with the intention of being used directly to set permit conditions

Defined in / by

Last updated: 14 October 2026.

Rules set once for a sector

General binding rules let a Member State set conditions once for a sector instead of permit by permit. Article 6 provides that where general binding rules are adopted, the permit may simply include a reference to such rules. Article 17 sets the conditions for using them for Annex I activities: they are based on the best available techniques (Article 17(2)), and Member States make sure they are updated to take into account developments in best available techniques (Article 17(3)).

Since Directive (EU) 2024/1785, general binding rules can also carry the operating rules for pig and poultry farms. The definition of operating rules in Article 3, point (12a), covers rules included in permits or general binding rules for activities in Annex Ia.

The definition itself has not changed since 2010. Its point is the intention behind a rule: general binding rules are adopted to be used directly to set permit conditions, at least at sector level, which separates them from general environmental law that applies to everyone.

Questions and answers

Do general binding rules replace an IED permit?

No. Under Article 6 the permit may refer to them instead of repeating them. The obligation to hold a permit in Article 4 remains, subject to the registration option there.

Must general binding rules follow BAT?

Yes. Article 17(2) bases them on the best available techniques, and Article 17(3) requires them to be updated as best available techniques develop.

Regulations

  • Industrial Emissions Directive (IED 2.0)

    The revised Industrial Emissions Directive is Directive (EU) 2024/1785. Member States had to transpose it by 1 July 2026, and none had notified full transposition by 25 September 2026. Operators need an environmental management system by 1 July 2027, and large pig and poultry farms follow from 2030. The Dutch bill is before the Eerste Kamer.

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