DTSC, the State Water Resources Control Board, and the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards are considering jointly writing regulations to make the processes for listing high priority cleanup sites more transparent and consistent between the agencies.  Another part of this concept has to do with making more consistent the procedures for investigating and cleaning up sites that fall below that “high priority” threshold.   The regulations would apply to hazardous substances cleanup as required by the Health and Safety Code section 25356.

The Regional Boards already have processes in place, based on Water Code authority, for addressing sites they oversee that are not appropriate for listing.  DTSC is also considering the need for regulations establishing procedures for the investigation and cleanup of sites that fall below the threshold for high priority listing under Health and Safety Code section 25356.

We prepared two initial documents –  Site Listing Concept and Cleanup of Non-Listed Site Concept – that capture the essence of discussions between DTSC and the Water Boards.  We will post additional information as the concept takes shape.  As we approach the rulemaking phase, you will note that we will have formal public comment periods.

If, after reviewing these materials, you would like to submit ideas or suggestions, please send them via e-mail to LGrouard@dtsc.ca.gov.  If you have questions, please call Laurie Grouard, DTSC, Site Mitigation and Brownfields Reuse Program, Planning and Policy Unit at (916) 323-3394.

Finally, if you are interested in learning about other regulations coming out of DTSC, we have e-mail subscription services, also called listservs, linked from our home page (right column, below photos and art).  One of those, All Regulations, registers people who wish to receive e-mail notification of all public comment periods required by the Administrative Procedures Act.

• Site Listing Concept
• Cleanup of Non-Listed Site Concept