This paper summarises the European approach to the land utilisation of sewage sludge and its regulation to protect the environment. Legislation of this kind is now changing as a result of the need to integrate the policies which cover nutrients, contaminants, and pathogens for the protection of soil, water and the food chain. Important EU policies which have an influence and need to be taken into account are: the Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection, the Water Framework Directive and the Food Regulations (which set maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs). Current legislation and practice will be covered as well as the concepts and the need for more holistic environmental protection measures.