Authorities: M.G.L. c. 111, §§ 31-31B: Removal of Garbage and 150A-150B: Solid Waste Disposal Facilities; 310 CMR 19.017: Waste Control.

Jurisdiction: Solid waste disposal in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Applicability: Storage, transport, and disposal of waste materials.

Regulatory Summary: Local boards of health have authority over the general public health and may regulate the removal, transportation, and disposal of refuse. The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has mandated closing of unlined landfills and has limited the development of new solid waste disposal facilities, to better encourage reuse and recycling of waste material. In addition, MassDEP Waste Ban regulations restrict disposal of various recyclable and hazardous materials in solid waste facilities. Options for disposal of solid waste are therefore limited. Projects that generate solid waste will have to consider the cost of short-term on-site storage, transport of waste materials to an approved site, and tipping fees in their business plans. Proponents are encouraged to identify opportunities to reduce and recycle materials generated in construction as well as operation of proposed facilities.

Review Process: Locally determined.

Forms: Locally determined.

Fees: Locally determined.

Website: www.mass.gov/dep/recycle/solidwas.htm.

Contact: Local Board of Health.