In Vermont, some construction materials and demolition "waste" can be brought to special recycling drop-offs, where they're repurposed or recycled in a variety of ways. This page will direct you to current recycling outlets, regulations, Vermont-based resources, and strategies for resource-conscious development.
Why recycle project components?
With some light planning and diligence, certain Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste materials can be separated from landfill wastes on your project site and then recycled or salvaged into useful products or beautiful new structures. Since Vermont generates over 100,000 tons of C&D waste each year, Vermonters' efforts to recycle or reuse project by-products make a big difference, conserving resources and saving precious space in landfills.
Did you know: Act 250 requires that the applicant submit a Construction Waste Management Plan for projects involving more than 5,000 square feet of construction and/or demolition. Applicants can devise a site-specific plan, or utilize construction specification in lieu of a plan, or may use this plan template.
Materials Accepted:
- Clean Wood Landfill ban effective July 1, 2016
- Asphalt Shingles
- Scrap Metal
- Drywall
- Plywood
- Oriented Strand Board (OSB)
- Brick
- Concrete
- Granite, slate, and other special fixtures or features may be re-purposed
*Materials listed in bold indicate a subset of construction waste materials deemed architectural waste materials. Under certain conditions, State law requires that projects keep these materials out of the trash and transferred to a recycling facility. Read more below.
Projects Required to Recycle Architectural Materials Under State Law (10 V.S.A. § 6605m.)
Some construction, deconstruction, or demolition projects are required to separate architectural waste materials for the purpose of recycling. A project is subject to the requirement if it meets ALL of the following conditions:
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The project produces 40 cubic yards or more of architectural waste. Forty cubic yards is the typical volume of one construction site roll-off dumpster.
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The project site is within 20 miles of a solid waste facility that recycles architectural waste.
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The construction or demolition project is for a commercial building or a residential building with 2 or more units.
Read Act 175 as passed into law in Spring 2013, or go to the official amendment in 10 V.S.A. § 6605m. in Vermont Statutes Online.
Facilities Accepting Architectural Waste Materials for Recycling
Further information about architectural waste management can be found in four Agency publications: Architectural Waste - Summary and FAQs , Architectural Waste in Vermont - A Primer, and Policies on Architectural Waste Recycling.
There are currently two facilities in Vermont that accept loads of architectural waste, in addition to other materials. Check with each facility for details.
Myers C&D Recycling Facility
216 Red Can Drive, Colchester, VT 05446
Vermont's first construction and demolition waste recycling center.
Link to brochure.
(802) 655-4312 | www.theredcanfamily.com
All Cycle Transfer Station
220 Avenue B, Williston, VT 05495
Accepts loads from small projects (e.g. household cleanout) must contain a minimum 60% C&D.
(802) 651-5412 | https://www.casella.com/locations/williston-vt-transfer
There are many other facilities around the state that will accept single materials, such as concrete, brick, asphalt, or a combination of several types. To locate a certified solid waste facility, visit the Materials Management Map.
Other Businesses and Organizations Accepting Used Material
Beyond solid waste facilities certified by the Agency of Natural Resources, there is a wide array of building salvage, reuse, and antique stores that look for quality used building materials, fixtures, and appliances.
Deconstruction
Deconstruction is another strategy to reduce demolition waste since it makes it possible to reuse and recycle more materials. You can learn more about deconstruction from EPA or check out this Vermont case study, "Approaches to Mobile Home Deconstruction."
Any amount of asbestos-containing materials (ACM), whether friable or non-friable, must be disposed of in a landfill that is specifically certified to accept asbestos waste. Generators of ACM do not require permits or approvals from VTDEC; however, disposal facilities typically require advance notification of incoming loads of asbestos-containing waste or vermiculite insulation. For more information, please refer to the Vermont Department of Health and the ANR Policies on the Management of Asbestos-Containing Waste and Storage in Vermont. If you have any questions, feel free to call 802-828-1138.