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The Utah Department of Environmental Quality’s Pollution Prevention Program has developed this website to provide an owner, developer, contractor, subcontractor, architect, construction manager, or design engineer practical ideas to help prevent pollution at the construction site. Detailed information about Utah’s environmental requirements and best management practices can be found on this website and in the Best Management Practices for Construction Sites 
pamphlet. While this website can be used during all stages of construction projects, the best time to begin using the information on this website is BEFORE a project is bid.
Most regulations tell you what you have to do to be in compliance, but they don’t explain how to do it. That’s where “best management practices” or BMP come into play. BMP are proven methods that help you to get into compliance and stay there while minimizing waste that can result in cost savings to you!
In many cases, federal and local requirements, in addition to the state requirements that are provided on the website, may apply to your project. You should always check with federal and local agencies before starting a construction project to make sure that you are addressing all relevant requirements. You can find information on federal-specific requirements and contact information at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Construction Sector website.
Many of the environmental regulations do not specifically define the responsible party (e.g., owner, developer, or contractor). Therefore, it is possible that all involved parties may be liable if requirements are not met.
Minimizing waste can result in cost savings to you! The following benefits can help you save money while keeping our communities great places in which to live, work, and play.
Reduced Disposal Costs
Disposal costs rise as new landfill sites become harder to find. Fees for disposal of construction and demolition (C&D) debris can add up quickly. If tipping fees are between $30 and $75, you may be able to save up to 25% by recycling. With fees of $75 and higher, savings should exceed 25%. Through a combination of methods discussed in this website you can send less to the landfill and avoid these high fees.
Although recycling some materials may be difficult in some areas of the country, recycling opportunities do exist. For example, metal is readily recyclable and has a good dollar value. Recycling other materials such as wood, drywall, cardboard, plastics, and leftover paints and solvents can reduce your disposal costs.
Hazardous wastes are much more expensive to manage than non-hazardous solid wastes. Choosing materials that will not become hazardous waste, if not completely used, will save on disposal and regulatory costs.
Enhanced Health and Safety
Waste minimization practices and wise material selection help reduce your employees’ risk of accidents or exposure to harmful substances. For example, switching to less toxic adhesives reduces indoor air contaminants for framers, carpet installers, cabinet makers, tile layers, and future occupants.
Reduced Liability
As a contractor, you are responsible for complying with regulatory requirements and you are liable for any environmental damage caused by your activities. One way to reduce your liability is to make sure your subcontractors and employees follow applicable environmental regulations and adhere to a set of waste minimization practices. If you stop generating hazardous waste, you can often reduce your regulatory exposure and decrease or even eliminate the need for permits, manifests, and reports.
Improved Market Appeal
In response to a growing consumer concern for health hazards from common pollutants (lead, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and wood preservatives), building healthy homes can be a strong marketing strategy.
The four sections on this website provide valuable information regarding best management practices for each phase of the construction project. Within each section you will find three information boxes guiding you through best management practices, regulations, and contacts for further information.
Best Management Practices
Throughout this guide you will find best management practices that can result in reduction of waste at the construction site. Many of these can help you comply with regulations that are required by law.
Regulations
Sections on this website include links to pertinent Utah Department of Environmental Quality’s websites for further information on state environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
Contacts
A list of names and contact information for specific regulatory agencies and other organizations has been provided so you can easily contact the proper authority for more detailed information. This list is not comprehensive, but is a good starting point.
Resources
* Note: Some of the files on this page require the Adobe Acrobat Reader.
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