RCRA Operating Permits

The owner or operator of a TSDF that is regulated under RCRA must have an EPA-issued operating permit. Once a facility has obtained the appropriate TSDF permit, it is considered to be a "permitted facility." As mentioned earlier, the application for the permit must be made and the permit obtained prior to beginning construction of a facility. The operating permit provides a set of requirements specific to the TSDF's situation. The permit enables the EPA to track waste management activities at facilities to ensure that hazardous waste is being handled properly. The permit requirements are intended to ensure that the facility complies with the extensive RCRA management standards in place to protect human health and the environment. The RCRA operating permit is maintained across the active life of the facility and during closure activities. Some facilities may be required to obtain a special form of permit instead of, or in addition to, an operating permit.

To learn more about RCRA visit our RCRA Hazardous Waste Safety Online Training web page.