Pollution NOC in Delhi NCR: Consent to Establish (CTE) & Operate (CTO) Process (2025)

If you’re planning to start or operate a business in Delhi NCR—whether it’s a factory, restaurant, or hotel—you must obtain a Pollution NOC from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC).

This blog explains everything about Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) under environmental regulations, required documents, process, and how PSR Compliance helps you get your DPCC NOC quickly and smoothly.

What is Pollution NOC in Delhi NCR?

A Pollution NOC (No Objection Certificate) is a legal approval issued by the Pollution Control Board (in Delhi, it’s the DPCC – Delhi Pollution Control Committee) to ensure that your business activity does not harm the environment.

Before setting up or operating any manufacturing, processing, or service unit, you must obtain two key approvals:

● Consent to Establish (CTE): Before construction or setup.

● Consent to Operate (CTO): Before starting business operations.

Both are mandatory under the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.

Why Pollution NOC is Required in Delhi NCR

Delhi NCR faces serious air and water pollution issues, which makes environmental clearance essential for every business activity.

Without a valid Pollution NOC certificate from DPCC:

❌ Your business setup may face closure notices.

❌ You can be fined or prosecuted under environmental laws.

❌ You won’t be able to apply for GST registration or other licenses.

With a valid NOC from the Pollution Control Board, you can ensure:

✅ Legal compliance with DPCC guidelines.

✅ Smooth setup and operation of your unit.

✅ Eligibility for other registrations like Factory License, BIS, or FSSAI.

Who Needs a Pollution NOC in Delhi NCR?

Pollution NOC is mandatory for almost every industry and service business. This includes:

➔ Manufacturing units (chemical, plastic, textile, engineering)

➔ Restaurants and hotels

➔ Construction and infrastructure projects

➔ Workshops, garages, and vehicle washing units

➔ Hospitals, clinics, and pathology labs

➔ Water purification and packaged drinking water units

So, if your business emits waste, discharge, fumes, or pollutants, you need to apply for DPCC NOC in Delhi.

Types of Pollution NOC (DPCC)

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) issues two main types of NOCs:

1️⃣ Consent to Establish (CTE) Required before starting construction or installation of equipment.

Issued for: New units or expansion of existing plants.

Validity: Generally valid for one year or till setup completion.

2️⃣ Consent to Operate (CTO) Required before starting business operations.

Issued for: Operational factories, hotels, or service establishments.

Validity: 5 years (Green Category) and 2 years (Orange/Red Category).

Categories of Industries as per DPCC

DPCC classifies industries into four categories based on pollution potential:

Note: White category units only need intimation to DPCC, not full consent.

Step-by-Step Process for Pollution NOC in Delhi NCR

Here’s how to apply for Pollution NOC online via the DPCC portal:

Step 1: Identify Your Category Check whether your industry falls under White, Green, Orange, or Red category.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents You will need:

• Company PAN & GST certificate

• Site plan & layout

• Manufacturing process flowchart

• Land ownership/lease documents

• Water consumption & wastewater details

• DG set & emission control details

• Product list with capacity

• Undertaking on pollution control

Step 3: Apply on the DPCC Online Portal • Visit DPCC official site

• Create an account and fill the online Pollution NOC application

• Upload the required documents

Step 4: Pay the Government Fees Fees depend on your industry category and investment amount.

Step 5: Document Verification & Inspection DPCC officials may conduct a site visit for verification.

Step 6: Get Your Pollution NOC Certificate Once approved, the DPCC issues the CTE or CTO certificate electronically.

Pollution NOC Fees in Delhi NCR

Fees vary based on industry type and category:

(Processing time: 30–60 days depending on documentation and inspection.)

Pollution NOC Renewal Process

Every Consent to Operate (CTO) must be renewed before expiry. For renewal, you’ll need:

★ Updated performance report

★ Latest wastewater and emission reports

★ Updated DG set or fuel usage details

★ Compliance certificates

Delays in renewal can lead to penalties or suspension of the certificate.

Benefits of Obtaining Pollution NOC

✔ Legal Compliance – Avoid closure or penalties.

✔ Business Credibility – Builds trust with customers & government.

✔ Ease of Expansion – Required for factory or capacity increase.

✔ Sustainability Recognition – Positions your brand as eco-friendly.

How PSR Compliance Helps You Get DPCC Pollution NOC

Getting Pollution NOC can be complex — from documentation to online application and inspection. That’s where PSR Compliance comes in.

We provide end-to-end consultancy for Pollution NOC in Delhi NCR, including:

✅ Category identification (White/Green/Orange/Red)

✅ Document preparation and technical reports

✅ Online application filing on DPCC portal

✅ Coordination with officials for faster approval

✅ Assistance in renewal and compliance audits

✅ Assistance in renewal and compliance audits

Whether you’re applying for DPCC NOC certificate, Consent to Operate, or factory pollution clearance, our experts ensure zero rejection and timely approval.