Waste Oil Disposal
Heavy equipment such as tractors, skidders, and large trucks are commonly used in forestry operations. Consequently, routine maintenance activities including oil changes often take place at the work site, that is, in the woods. Proper collection and disposal of waste oil is necessary in order to prevent soil and water contamination and to promote recycling of motor oil.
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Federal Law
The Clean Water Act (CWA) has provisions relating to the reporting of leaks, spills or discharges of hazardous substances, including oil, into navigable waters, or any waters connecting to navigable waters
Spills and unauthorized discharges must be reported to the State Warning Point, Division of Emergency Management, Department of Community Affairs (DCA) at (850) 413-9911. Failure to report such a discharge is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment.
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State Law
Through the Florida Resource Recovery and Management Act and other provisions, Florida law prohibits the discharge of used oil into the ground or into surface waters. Transporting used oil (including hydraulic fluid) to waste oil collection facilities is the correct way to dispose of used oil. More information on the location of waste oil collection facilities is at the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Waste Oil Collection page.
The State of Florida also requires that spills or leaks of petroleum product in excess of 25 gallons must be reported to the Division of Emergency Management, Department of Community Affairs (DCA) at (850) 413-9911. Failure to report such a discharge is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment.
The FDACS Florida Forest Service's Silvicultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) contain standards pertaining to waste disposal during forestry operations. The Water Management Districts reference BMPs as performance standards for compliance with their rules. See the FFS Best Management Practices for more information.
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Local Ordinances and Contacts
County and city governments often have local regulations in effect regarding the discharge of pollutants. These regulations are most often administered through local environmental or health offices and frequently include reporting requirements for accidental spills. Landowners and land managers should be aware of any such regulations.
Click on the links below for contacts you can reach for more information:
- Division of Forestry (DOF)
- Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
Information on waste oil disposal. - Department of Community Affairs (DCA)
Reporting unauthorized discharges. - Florida Forestry Association