Who is the Program For?
This program is intended for businesses that produce
small or infrequent amounts of hazardous wastes. You must be a
Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator or “CESQG”
to utilize this program.
This program is available only to Palm Beach County
businesses and there are limitations on the types and amounts of
waste which can be accepted. Acceptance of hazardous waste, or
enrollment in the program is solely at the discretion of the Solid
Waste Authority.
Am I a “CESQG”?
You must first look at all of the waste materials you
dispose of and determine which are regulated as hazardous wastes.
Based on that amount, generators will fall into one of three
categories - Large Quantity, Small Quantity, or Conditionally
Exempt. The federal regulations for identifying and managing
hazardous wastes are found in 40 CFR 261.
A CESQG generates less than 220 lbs. (or
approximately one-half drum) of hazardous waste or one 2.2 lbs. of
acute hazardous waste per calendar month, and never accumulates more
than 2,200 lbs. of hazardous waste.
Refer to the Hazardous Waste Information page for
more resources.
What is an EPA ID number?
Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
identification numbers are used to identify and track hazardous
waste as it moves its way from generator to transporter to final
disposal facility. (cradle-to-grave).
All Large Quantity Generators, Small Quantity
Generators, hazardous waste transporters, and hazardous waste
Storage , Treatment, or Disposal facilities are required to obtain
an EPA ID number. Only one number is assigned to a generator or
facility address.
EPA ID numbers are issued in Florida through the
Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Contact the FDEP
district office for more information.
Why Use This Program?
The advantage of this program is that small
quantities from different generators can generally be combined for
bulk disposal rates. Each business pays for only their share of the
combined drum. However not all types of wastes can be combined and
there may be specialized disposal companies that pick up small
quantities and offer better rates.
By using this program, or any disposal service, and
keeping your paperwork you can provide proof of proper disposal to a
regulatory agency if needed.
What Are the Costs?
There is no longer a registration fee. The disposal
fees we charge are based on our contract prices, which may be higher
or lower than could be obtained by you directly. The cost depends on
the material. The SWA has transportation and disposal contracts with
several major hazardous waste disposal firms.
What Are My Responsibilities as a Generator?
Enrollment in this program does not relieve the
generator of any other regulatory responsibility. You, the
generator, will be required to certify that you meet the conditions
of the program as part of the registration. You are responsible for
complying with all applicable regulations governing storage,
transport, disposal, and reporting.
How Do I Participate?
Register with the SWA and provide an inventory of the
materials you wish to dispose. Follow the instructions on the CESQG
Program page.
What Do You do with the Waste?
Wastes are sorted and then combined with other
similar wastes for bulk quantities. Depending on the material the
wastes are then shipped off-site by one of several contractors to an
appropriate disposal or treatment facility.
Recycling is preferred when possible as is the case
with some of the latex paints, car batteries, and fluorescent lamps.
Most oil and flammable liquids can be blended for commercial fuels,
and corrosive liquids are neutralized. Most other materials are
incinerated.
Do I Get a Receipt?
Yes. A receipt is provided itemizing the materials
received through this program. Keep the receipt for your records.
What if I Don’t Qualify - Are There Other Disposal
Options?
You may still be able to use the SWA’s disposal
contract and pricing by dealing directly with the contractor.
There are number of commercial firms that service the
entire state. Some specialize in certain types of waste while others
will handle any kind. As with any type of service it is best to shop
around and get the best price and service for your needs. A partial
list of commercial contractors is available on this site.
