Processing Facilities in Idaho
Processing facilities use biological or chemical decomposition to prepare solid waste for reuse. They do not include transfer stations or recycling centers. Processing facilities are classified into one of four categories and are regulated according to the volume and type of waste managed.
Below Regulatory Concern Facilities
Below regulatory concern (BRC) facilities manage a cumulative volume of
300 cubic yards or less and do not manage petroleum-contaminated soils or pumpable waste. BRCs must meet basic operating requirements to prevent/reduce nuisance conditions. No approval or notification is required. Documentation to support BRC status is required, however. Landfills do not qualify as BRC facilities.
Tier I Processing Facilities
Tier I processing facilities manage a cumulative volume of 600 cubic yards or less and only accept such wastes as untreated or unpainted wood, yard waste, sheetrock, and clean paper products. Tier I processing facilities also include facilities that only manage a cumulative volume of 200 cubic yards or less of petroleum-contaminated soils or pumpable wastes.
Under Idaho's Solid Waste Management Rules (IDAPA 58. 01.06), Tier I processing facilities are subject to Tier I regulations and deadlines including appropriate signage, nuisance (disease, vector, odor, and litter) control, secure access, open burning restrictions, and stormwater runoff controls.
Tier II Processing Facilities
Tier II processing facilities manage a cumulative volume of 600 cubic yards or more and include facilities that only manage a cumulative volume of 200 cubic yards or more of petroleum-contaminated soil or pumpable wastes.
As prescribed in Idaho's Solid Waste Management Rules, Tier II processing facilities are subject to basic Tier II regulations and deadlines. Basic Tier II regulations cover five areas: location, operation, design, closure, and postclosure care. For example, siting Tier II facilities near airports, critical habitat areas, and floodplains is restricted, and all Tier II facilities must develop and implement operating, odor management, and closure plans. All of these regulations are designed to ensure that Tier II facilities are constructed and operated in a manner protective of public health and the environment. Tier II processing facilities also must meet certain specific additional design, operating, and closure requirements.
Tier III Processing Facilities
Processing facilities may be classified as Tier III if they are determined by DEQ to be managing solid waste in a manner or volume that will form toxic leachate or gas or is likely to pose a substantial risk to human health or the environment. If so, the facilities are subject to Tier III regulations and deadlines.
Tier III regulations also cover six areas: location, operation, design, ground water monitoring and corrective action, closure and postclosure care, and financial assurance. Of particular note is required installation of a ground water monitoring system.