Excess soil – a term that has gained significant attention due to its implications on construction and development projects across Ontario. If you’re unsure about the ins and outs of excess soil management, you’re not alone. The Government of Ontario recently introduced Ontario Regulation 406/19 to address how to manage excess soil from construction, development, and infrastructure projects.. At Peritus Environmental Consultants, we’re here to guide you through this complex terrain. Let’s dig into the world of excess soil and how we can assist you.

Understanding Excess Soil

Excess soil refers to soil that’s being removed from a property in Ontario. The regulation introduced by the government serves two crucial objectives:

Reducing Landfill Usage: The new regulation aims to divert clean fill away from landfills. Instead, excavated soil is encouraged to be repurposed for infrastructure projects and development sites.

Preventing Contamination: Contaminated soil should no longer find its way onto clean sites, including farmland and rural areas.

How We Can Help

At Peritus, we’re equipped to guide you through every step of the excess soil management process. Our experience encompasses administering soil sampling plans, soil segregation and stockpiling, finding suitable destinations for soil, and handling the requisite paperwork. Whether you need clarification about the regulation or assistance with a specific project, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

As you navigate the world of excess soil management, you’re likely to have questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to provide you with greater insight into the new regulation:

When did the new regulation take effect?

Starting January 1, 2023, the new regulation (O.Reg. 406/19) was fully operational for all sites in Ontario.

What changes have been introduced?

Key changes include considering excess soil as waste upon leaving a work site, more specific quality and testing requirements, and direct transportation to authorized sites. Additionally, soil quality must adhere to the new Excess Soil Standards and align with reuse site specifications.

How does this impact property owners?

For municipalities overseeing development or infrastructure projects, and developers themselves, this regulation will influence your approach to excess soil management. Any impact on the environment or water quality necessitates preventive and remedial actions.

What does this mean for contractors?

The new regulation seeks to prevent illegal dumping of contaminated soil. Developers must factor soil and its reuse early in the project planning phase and incorporate required sampling and testing.

What does this mean for future projects?

The new regulations provide clarity to the construction industry, treating excess soil as a valuable resource. This approach reduces landfill waste, sets clear rules for soil reuse, and prevents improper disposal of contaminated soil. Proper management, including preconstruction reporting and sampling, is now essential.

Navigating the Future with Confidence

Excess soil management is no longer a matter of choice; it’s a necessity dictated by Ontario’s new regulations. Peritus Environmental Consultants is your trusted partner in understanding and implementing these changes. We’re committed to assisting you in adhering to the new standards while helping your projects proceed seamlessly.