Environmental Assistance for the Construction Industry
Air Quality Regulations
Construction activities impact Idaho's air quality and are therefore regulated by DEQ. All construction sites/projects must comply with DEQ's fugitive dust, visible emissions, and open burning regulations. In addition, your facility may need to obtain an air quality permit to construct. Specific regulations apply to rock crushers and hot mix asphalt plants. In addition, demolition of asbestos must meet the National Emission Standard for Asbestos. (See Related Pages at right.)
Water Quality Regulations
Construction operations can have an impact on Idaho's surface and ground waters and may be subject to federal water quality standards and the National Pollutant Elimination Discharge System (NPDES) program. Under this program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the discharge of pollutants into any water body of the U.S., including storm water sewer systems. Depending on the activities and services provided, construction operations may need an NPDES general permit for direct or indirect discharge. If the construction operation is located within a city that has an NPDES permit, it may be subject to the city's pretreatment and storm water requirements.