Navigate Suffolk County’s New 2024 Waste Disposal Regulations: Essential Guide for Homeowners

Suffolk County homeowners are facing significant changes to waste disposal regulations in 2024, with new requirements affecting everything from septic systems to hazardous waste management. Understanding these updated regulations is crucial for maintaining compliance and protecting Long Island’s precious water resources.

Key Changes to Suffolk County Waste Disposal in 2024

Suffolk County has implemented stricter regulations on cesspool installations, with a complete ban effective July 1, 2019, which continues to impact homeowners in 2024. The ban advances water quality efforts and sets the stage for new technologies that reduce nitrogen in residential wastewater by up to 70%. The legislation also requires the wastewater industry to provide data regarding system replacement and pumping activities to the Department of Health Services and requires permits for replacement of existing systems.

The adopted Article 19 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code establishes a framework for the Department of Health Services to act as the Responsible Management Entity with the responsibility to evaluate, approve, register, oversee, and facilitate the use of I/A OWTS. This means homeowners now face more stringent oversight when upgrading their waste disposal systems.

Understanding the Septic Improvement Program

The Department is hereby authorized, empowered and directed to establish a grant assistance program to be known as the “Residential Innovative and Alternative On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Grant Assistance Program” (the “Residential Septic Incentive Program” or “the Program”) to provide funding assistance (the “grant”) to eligible residential property owners for the purchase and installation of an I/A OWTS. This program offers financial assistance to homeowners who need to upgrade their systems to meet new environmental standards.

Homeowners can continue to pump out their system as often as they wish to do so. However, when they voluntarily choose to upgrade their existing system they MUST install a septic tank prior to the leaching structure in accordance with current standards.

Hazardous Waste and Dumping Regulations

The Legislature finds that the growth of industrialization and population in Suffolk County has resulted in an increase in the generation of hazardous wastes. Some of these substances have been illegally discharged into the ground by unscrupulous transporters and generators of these wastes. The Legislature notes that the federal government has officially designated the aquifers below Suffolk County as a sole source for water supply. Long Island’s sandy soil makes it easy for spilled materials to seep into the aquifers, thus increasing the dangers to public health imposed by illegal discharge of these wastes.

No person shall throw, dump, deposit, place or cause to be thrown, dumped, deposited or placed upon any County highway or within the limits of the right-of-way of such highway or upon any parcel of real estate owned by the County of Suffolk, in whatever capacity and for whatever purpose, any dirt, sand, gravel, clay, loam, stone, building rubbish, sawdust, shavings, light materials of any sort, manufacturing, trade or household waste, refuse, rubbish of any sort or ashes, manure, garbage or other materials described as solid waste in 6 NYCRR 360, construction or demolition debris, as defined in 6 NYCRR 360-1.2, hazardous materials, as defined in New York State Environmental Conservation Law § 37-0103, hazardous waste, as defined in New York State Environmental Conservation Law § 27-0903, or as offensive materials in the Suffolk County Sanitary Code, Article 5, § 760-501A, without the written consent of the County of Suffolk.

What Homeowners Need to Know

2024 Household Hazardous Waste Event Dates: Saturdays, 4/20, 7/13, 10/5. These events provide safe disposal options for materials that cannot be disposed of through regular waste collection.

Suffolk County Sanitary Code: This code sets forth regulations for waste collection, storage, and disposal to protect public health and the environment. New York State Solid Waste Management Act: Mandates that local governments develop comprehensive waste management plans that include recycling and disposal strategies. Hazardous Waste Regulations: Establishes guidelines for the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials, ensuring public safety.

Working with Professional Waste Management Services

For homeowners navigating these complex regulations, working with experienced waste management professionals is essential. When you need reliable Garbage Removal Suffolk County services, choosing a company with deep local knowledge and commitment to environmental responsibility makes all the difference.

We are very proud Long Islanders and are honored to be able to serve the Nassau and Suffolk area. Long Island is full of natural beauty and it is our goal to make a significant contribution in keeping it clean for the future generations to come. This commitment to environmental stewardship aligns perfectly with Suffolk County’s new regulations.

Our business is built on great service and long-lasting relationships with our customers, as we model our business on trust, value and prompt service. We aim to provide attention to detail as a part of our service and we care about the safety of others and our employees.

Compliance and Best Practices

To ensure compliance with Suffolk County’s 2024 waste disposal regulations, homeowners should:

• Schedule regular inspections of septic systems and cesspools
• Participate in county-sponsored hazardous waste collection events
• Obtain proper permits before replacing or upgrading waste disposal systems
• Work with licensed professionals for all waste management needs
• Stay informed about changing regulations through county resources

Effective waste disposal in Suffolk County is essential for protecting public health, preserving the environment, and promoting economic efficiency. By understanding the available services, regulations, and initiatives, residents can actively participate in waste reduction and recycling efforts, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable community.

The new 2024 regulations represent Suffolk County’s commitment to protecting Long Island’s unique environment and water resources. While these changes may seem complex, homeowners who stay informed and work with experienced professionals can navigate these requirements successfully while contributing to a cleaner, healthier community for future generations.