LER Code: How to Identify your Waste Easily and Avoid Penalties

The LER Code, also known as the European Waste Catalogue (EWC), is the official tool established by the European Union to classify waste generated by companies and industries. This six-digit numerical system makes it possible to identify the origin, composition, and hazardous nature of each type of waste, ensuring proper and safe management.

In Spain, its use is mandatory under Law 7/2022 on waste and contaminated soils, and misclassification can lead to very high financial penalties, which in the most serious cases can reach several million euros.

In this article, we’ll explain what the LER Code is and how it helps you classify your company’s waste to avoid penalties.

Why is it important to correctly identify waste?

Assigning the correct LER code is not just an administrative formality but a strategic action that impacts multiple aspects of the business.

Compliance with the law prevents fines and audit delays, protects the environment by ensuring proper treatment of waste, and also helps reduce management costs, since correctly identified waste does not require unnecessary treatments or generate additional expenses.

Organizations that rigorously classify their waste achieve, according to European Commission data, up to a 15% reduction in their annual management costs, making this practice a direct source of savings.

How is the LER Code structured?

The LER Code is organized into three blocks of two digits:

• The first two digits indicate the chapter, which refers to the sector where the waste originates, such as construction, agriculture, or healthcare.
• The next two digits indicate the subchapter, which specifies the particular production process.
• The final two digits identify the specific material or substance.

For example, concrete waste from a construction site has a different code than chemical solvents from a factory or office paper. When the code is marked with an asterisk, it indicates hazardous waste, which requires stricter and more specialized management.

What are the penalties for misclassifying waste?

Law 7/2022 establishes three levels of penalties depending on the severity of non-compliance:

• Minor offenses, such as missing documentation or delays in submission, can result in fines of up to €2,000.
• Serious offenses, including falsification in classification or improper storage, range from €2,001 to €100,000.
• Very serious offenses, such as illegal dumping, can exceed €3,000,000.

Are there resources and support tools for companies?

Yes, companies have several resources available to comply with this regulation. For example, the e-SIR electronic platform centralizes all waste transfer procedures and facilitates traceability.

Some regional governments publish sector-specific guides that help identify the most common codes in certain activities. Additionally, many companies rely on environmental consultancies to verify the correct application of codes and advise on implementing more efficient management systems.

LER Code: an effective tool for waste identification

The LER Code is not unnecessary bureaucracy, but rather a system that provides legal certainty, cost savings, and environmental protection.

In a market where sustainability is a key factor of competitiveness, mastering waste classification is a differential advantage that strengthens a company’s position with clients, investors, and regulators.

FAQs about the LER Code

Does the LER Code change depending on the region?

No, since the list is European and applies throughout Spain.

Do all waste types have an assigned code?

Yes, although in some cases it is necessary to analyze their composition to choose the correct one.

Who is responsible for assigning the code?

The waste producer is the only legally responsible party, although they may rely on waste managers or consultants for support.