City of Stockton Press Release

Connie Cochran
Public Information Officer

(209) 937-8827
connie.cochran@ci.stockton.ca.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, August 1, 2008

Council to Consider Amendments to Municipal Code
Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Requirements

(Stockton, CA) – On Tuesday, August 12, 2008, the Stockton City Council will consider changes to the existing Municipal Code that will clarify requirements for recycling debris created by construction and demolition at building sites. If adopted, changes will take place in 60 days.

Construction, remodeling, and demolition projects generate a significant amount of debris and waste, and state law requires that 50 percent or more of the waste generated must be recycled. Applicants applying for a building or demolition permit with the City of Stockton are required to identify the type and amount (measured by weight) of debris that will be generated during their project and how the materials will be recycled. The requirements apply to residential, commercial, and pavement projects.

Changes to the City’s Municipal Code will define terms associated with the recycling of building materials and debris and clarify enforcement and the compliance process. To assist permit applicants with preparing and submitting a recycling plan, the City of Stockton has prepared an instructional permit packet for the Construction and Demolition Debris Waste Reduction Program, which contains all the necessary forms and identifies how and where various materials can be hauled, recycled and/or reused.

These changes assist Stockton with meeting goals set by the City Council placing an emphasis on implementing and encouraging “green” practices. Recycling and reusing construction and demolition debris has proven to significantly reduce the volume of materials that has previously been dumped into surrounding landfills. In addition to being more environmentally sound, recycling construction debris increases work site safety and results in a more cost effective project.

For additional information, including a copy of the draft ordinance, please visit www.stocktongov.com/recylce , or, contact Sabine Verelst, Public Works Project Manager and Recycling Coordinator, at (209) 937-7579.
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