Demolition projects in New York City must comply with strict environmental regulations to protect public health, minimize pollution, and ensure safe disposal of hazardous materials. At Alba Services, we adhere to all federal, state, and city requirements while implementing sustainable demolition practices.
Here’s a breakdown of the key environmental regulations that NYC demolition companies must follow:
1. Asbestos & Hazardous Material Handling
Federal (EPA) & State (NYSDEC) Requirements
✔ Inspection & Testing – Before demolition, an EPA-certified inspector must check for asbestos, lead, PCBs, and other hazardous materials.
✔ Proper Abatement – If hazardous materials are found, they must be removed by licensed contractors before demolition begins.
✔ Disposal Documentation – All hazardous waste must be tracked and disposed of at approved facilities.
NYC DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) Rules
✔ Notification Requirements – Submit an Asbestos Assessment Report (AAR) before starting work.
✔ Strict Removal Protocols – Wetting materials, sealing work areas, and using HEPA filters to prevent contamination.
2. Dust & Air Quality Control
NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) & OSHA Compliance
✔ Water Spray Systems – Required to suppress dust during demolition.
✔ Enclosed Chutes – Must be used for debris removal in high-density areas.
✔ PM10 & PM2.5 Monitoring – Fine particulate matter must stay below EPA limits.
Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) Compliance
✔ Low-Emission Equipment – Older diesel machinery may need retrofits or replacements.
✔ Idling Restrictions – Heavy equipment cannot idle for more than 3 minutes near schools and residential areas.
3. Waste Management & Recycling Laws
NYC Local Law 77 (Construction & Demolition Waste Recycling)
✔ Recycling Mandate – At least 50% of non-hazardous debris must be recycled.
✔ Waste Tracking – Companies must submit DWM (Designated Waste Management) Plans and keep records for audits.
Concrete, Metal & Wood Recycling Rules
✔ Concrete – Must be crushed and reused as fill or aggregate.
✔ Metals – Steel, copper, and aluminum must be recycled.
✔ Wood – Treated wood must be separated; clean wood can be repurposed.
4. Noise & Vibration Restrictions
NYC Noise Code (Local Law 113)
✔ Limited Work Hours – Most demolition is restricted to 7 AM – 6 PM on weekdays.
✔ Noise Mitigation – Equipment must meet decibel limits, and barriers may be required.
✔ Community Notices – Neighbors must be informed in advance of disruptive work.
Vibration Monitoring (For Adjacent Buildings)
✔ Seismic Sensors – Required near historic or unstable structures.
✔ Pre-Demolition Surveys – Document existing cracks to prevent false damage claims.
5. Stormwater & Erosion Control
EPA Clean Water Act Compliance
✔ SWPPP (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan) – Must be filed for sites over 1 acre.
✔ Silt Fences & Sediment Basins – Prevent debris from entering sewers.
NYC DEP Spill Prevention Rules
✔ Fuel & Chemical Storage – Must have secondary containment.
✔ Emergency Spill Kits – Required on-site for quick response.
Why Choose Alba Services for Compliant Demolition?
✅ Full Regulatory Compliance – We handle permits, inspections, and documentation.
✅ Sustainable Practices – 90%+ recycling rates and low-emission equipment.
✅ Safety-First Approach – Certified hazardous material removal and dust control.
“Alba Services managed our Brooklyn demolition flawlessly—zero violations and maximum recycling. Their knowledge of NYC regulations saved us time and fines.”
– Property Developer, NYC
Need a Demolition Company That Follows All Environmental Laws?
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