An environmental law attorney ensures that projects and operations comply with Mexican environmental regulation: environmental impact, emissions, waste, water, and soil. At KNR Abogados we manage authorizations before SEMARNAT, ASEA, and local authorities, handle PROFEPA inspections, and defend companies in environmental proceedings and litigation.
Mexican environmental law: the license to operate
The General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA) and its sector laws — waste, national waters, wildlife, climate change — condition any industrial, real estate, or energy project in Mexico. The environmental impact authorization, operating licenses, and water concessions are not accessory paperwork: they are the legal license to operate, and their absence can halt a construction site or an entire plant.
Inspections and defense
PROFEPA and local environmental prosecutors verify compliance and can impose closures and significant fines, in addition to the liability for environmental damage governed by the Federal Law of Environmental Liability. We accompany inspection visits, answer administrative proceedings and, when necessary, litigate before the TFJA and in amparo. We also advise on ESG and circular-economy strategies with real legal substance, far from greenwashing.
This content is informational and does not constitute legal advice. Every case requires individual analysis.
Environmental impact
Environmental impact statements (MIA), preventive reports, and authorization strategies before SEMARNAT and state authorities.
Permits and concessions
Environmental licenses, national water concessions, discharge permits, and waste management registrations.
PROFEPA inspections
Support during verification visits, response to orders, and negotiation of corrective measures and voluntary environmental audits.
Environmental litigation
Defense in sanctioning proceedings, annulment actions and amparo, and advice on environmental damage liability.
Compliance and ESG
Environmental compliance audits, asset due diligence, and legal design of environmental and sustainability commitments.
Resolvemos tus dudas
When do I need an environmental impact authorization?
When the project falls under article 28 of the LGEEPA or state laws: industrial works, real estate and tourism developments, hazardous activities, forestry or water-body uses, among others. Starting works without the authorization can lead to closure and demolition, so the analysis must happen before investing.
What should I do if PROFEPA visits my plant?
Attend the proceeding, verify the order and the visit's scope, and record in the minutes every irregularity or observation in your favor. After the minutes there is a short deadline to offer evidence and pleadings; much of the proceeding is decided there. A voluntary environmental audit can be a negotiated path to regularization.
What liability does my company have for environmental damage?
The Federal Law of Environmental Liability requires remedying the damage and allows actions even by civil associations and communities. Administrative penalties coexist and, in serious cases, criminal liability. A documented environmental compliance program reduces the risk and can mitigate penalties.
Anticipate. Protect. Scale.
Free legal assessment
Answer a short questionnaire (under 2 minutes) and our team will send you an assessment of your compliance and a strategic proposal for your operations in Mexico.
