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Environmental offences (other)

Section 120 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 · Crown Court, Magistrates

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Sentencing framework

The guideline sets out a range of sentences for various environmental offences, divided into categories reflecting seriousness. It provides starting points for sentencing but allows for adjustments based on aggravating and mitigating factors. Courts must consider these factors to ensure appropriate punitive measures while also taking into account the offender's circumstances.

Maximum sentence

Unlimited fine / Imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or a fine or both (depends on specific offence)

Court

Crown Court, Magistrates

Starting point

Not specified

Offence range

Discharge - unlimited fine (depends on specific offence)

Aggravating factors

  • ·Seriousness of the offence
  • ·Impact on the environment
  • ·Deliberate nature of the offending

Mitigating factors

  • ·Early guilty plea
  • ·Cooperation with authorities
  • ·Remedial actions taken by the offender

The sentencing process, step by step

  1. Step 1 — determining the offence category
  2. Step 2 — determining the culpability level
  3. Step 3 — determining the harm caused
  4. Step 4 — considering aggravating and mitigating factors
  5. Step 5 — adjusting the starting point and range if necessary
  6. Step 6 — determining the final sentence

Guideline notes

  • General principles to be considered in the sentencing of youths are in the Sentencing Guidelines Council’s definitive guideline.

Always read the full guideline

This is a one-page summary. For any live case, sentencing exercise, or legal advice the authoritative source is the Sentencing Council's own definitive guideline — including the category bands, step-by-step sentencing approach, and all statutory factors not captured here.

Open the full guideline on sentencingcouncil.org.uk

Source: Sentencing Council · Crown copyright, licensed under Open Government Licence v3.0. Summary fetched 2026-06-28. Not legal advice — see a regulated adviser for any live case.