4. Link to prefectoral operating authorization order

The integrated decree of February 2, 1998 is a fundamental text that forms the basis of regulations applicable to facilities classified for environmental protection. However, it is unusual in that it is not directly applicable by law, but serves as a guideline for the drafting of prefectoral operating authorization orders.

In practical terms, when drafting a prefectoral operating authorization order, the Classified Installations Inspectorate takes the integrated order as its reference. However, under the authority of the prefect, the inspectorate is free to amend certain provisions, adapting them to the specific case of the installation concerned. This is why it is sometimes possible to observe in a prefectoral decree stricter requirements than those of the decree of February 2, because local specificities justify it (particular sensitivity of a receiving environment...