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1. What is non-hazardous liquid waste?

Non-hazardous liquid waste is defined as human excreta and liquid or semi-solid wastes that include other liquid wastes that do not contain hazardous wastes in addition but are not limited to:
- Grease Trap Wastes
- Grit Traps Waste
- Septic Wastes
- Sludges
- Wastewaters

2. Who has to have a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation permit?

Chapter II, Section 7 of the Maricopa County Environmental Health Code states: “No person shall remove, store, transport or dispose of any non-hazardous liquid wastes without applying for and receiving a permit to do so.”

3. What are the Non-Hazardous Liquid Waste (NHLW) transportation vehicle regulations?

Vehicles used for the collection, storage, transportation and disposal of non-hazardous liquid waste must have a secure liquid and gas tight NHLW storage tank(s) constructed so that no offensive material may spill or escape from the tank, shall be operated in an approved sanitary manner, minimizing exposure to flies and other insects, spillage, odor, and without other hazard or danger to the public health, shall be cleaned frequently enough to prevent their becoming a public health nuisance, and shall be maintained in good repair.

NHLW storage tanks shall have a minimum capacity of 750 gallons, with the exception of tanks used exclusively for servicing chemical toilets, which may have a smaller capacity. Storage tanks shall not be open or exposed except during filling, emptying and cleaning. Vehicles shall be loaded and moved in such a manner that the contents are not exposed and do not leak, spill or escape. If spillage does occur, it shall be carefully cleaned up and the area affected by the spill properly disinfected.

4. What are the non-hazardous liquid waste operation and sanitation regulations?

No unclean vehicles or auxiliary equipment shall be allowed to stand or remain near any occupied premises without necessity. The loading and unloading of such vehicles and the transportation through any street, place or premises shall be completed in a timely manner.

All vehicles, tools, equipment shall be maintained in good repair at all times. At the end of each day's operation all containers, suction pumps, hose, and other tools and equipment shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. No vehicle, tank, or equipment used in these operations shall be used to contain or transport water for potable purposes.

5. How much does a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permit cost?

Only the vehicle loaded with non-hazardous liquid waste is required to be permitted. On tractor/tanker combinations, only the tanker will be permitted. The fees for operating permits are listed in the fee schedule of Chapter I of the Maricopa County Environmental Health Code (PDF).

6. When does a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permit expire?

Non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permits are issued for a period of 1 year. Permits may be renewed annually provided that the permit holder is in compliance with the rules and regulations.

7. What is required to obtain a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permit?

A permit application must be completed and a vehicle inspection performed prior to a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permit being issued for a vehicle. An inspector will be assigned and meet with you at a location convenient to conduct the vehicle inspection(s) and fill out the required documentation. Get this process started by contacting the Solid Waste Program. contacting the Solid Waste Program.

8. When can I use my vehicle to transport non-hazardous liquid waste?

All non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicles must be inspected and permitted before operation begins.

9. How do I apply for a NHLW transportation vehicle permit?

To apply for a non-hazardous liquid waste transportation vehicle permit, contact the Solid Waste Program.