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1. Am I a “VSQG”?

The key to answering this question is to determine which and how much of the wastes you produce are considered hazardous. The federal regulations identifying hazardous wastes and hazardous waste management requirements are found in 40 CFR 261. In general, the more hazardous waste you produce (generate) the more you are regulated. You must first look at all of the waste materials you dispose of and make a determination using the federal criteria as to which are regulated hazardous wastes. Based on that amount, generators will fall into one of three categories - Very Small Quantity, Small Quantity, or Large Quantity. VSQG's have the most flexibility in their waste disposal options, however, anyone handling or supplying chemicals or hazardous substances must comply with other related safety oriented regulations.

A VSQG generates less than 220 lbs. (or approximately 1/2 drum) of hazardous waste, or 2.2 lbs. of acute hazardous waste per calendar month, and never accumulates more than 2,200 lbs. of hazardous waste.

2. Who is the program for?

This program is aimed at those companies which produce small or infrequent amounts of hazardous wastes. You must be a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) 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.

3. 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 1 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.

4. Why use this program?

In general, the hazardous waste disposal industry is geared around the steady pickup and disposal of drummed quantities of wastes from medium and large scale businesses. Because much of the cost incurred can be for pickup and transportation, small quantities are often viewed as less desirable. This translates into small businesses paying higher fees, if they are able to obtain service at all.

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. There are however exceptions for certain types of wastes that cannot be combined and for other wastes, such as photographic and medical wastes, that support specialized full service disposal companies that pick up small quantities.

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.

5. 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.

6. How do I participate?

Register with the SWA and provide an inventory of the materials you wish to dispose. Learn more on the VSQG Program page.

VSQG Program

7. What is done 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 recycling, 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.

8. What are the costs?

There is not 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.

9. How do I pay? Do I get a receipt?

Payment must be made at time of delivery. Cash, company check or SWA account only. A receipt is provided itemizing the materials received through this program. Keep the receipt for your records.

10. 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 a 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.
View a list of hazardous waste Disposal Contractors. Disposal Contractors