The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (“UTC”) is cracking down on compliance with solid waste collection. Many of our members haul their own recycling and construction debris from job sites with a common carrier permit.

Solid waste, however, cannot be collected without a solid waste certificate and paying associated tariffs.

Here are some tips to avoid having to obtain a solid waste certificate and pay the associated tariffs:

Have Proper Signage

Ensure that all recycling bins are properly labelled with “RECYCLING ONLY” and “NO WASTE.” You must make sure no one mistakes your recycling bin for solid waste.

Use a Two-Bin System

Provide all job sites with appropriately labelled recycling bins and solid waste dumpsters. If your business is the primary contractor on site, work with a solid waste collection company with the necessary certificates. If you are a subcontractor, request that the primary contractor or owner of the site provides their own solid waste bin, or partner with a local solid waste company to provide additional low-cost services to your clients.

Don't Provide Dumpster Services

Make sure your online presence (website, social media, etc.) do not offer dumpster services unless you obtain a solid waste certificate. Recycling bins are a wonderful way to provide a five-star service to your clients, but make sure that your clients understand that you can only haul recycling – no solid waste.

Reach out to BIAW Legal for any questions about how to best protect your business from UTC solid waste fines this summer.

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