Arkansas Administrative Code Agency 221 - Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District

1. What the Arkansas Administrative Code (AAC) Is

The Arkansas Administrative Code is the official collection of all rules created by state agencies. These rules are the detailed procedures and standards that implement laws passed by the Arkansas Legislature.

Laws vs. Rules: Laws are broad statements passed by the legislature; rules tell you how those laws are applied in practice.

Agency Numbers: Each agency has a specific number in the AAC. Agency 221 is for the Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District.

2. Agency 221 – Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District

The Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District (SCRSWMD) is responsible for managing solid waste in Saline County, Arkansas, and its administrative rules are codified in Agency 221.

The main goals of this agency are:

Safe collection, disposal, and recycling of solid waste in the county.

Protect public health and the environment from improper waste management.

Regulate landfills, transfer stations, and waste services in the district.

Ensure compliance with state and local waste laws.

3. Scope of Agency 221 Rules

Agency 221 rules cover several areas of solid waste management:

A. Solid Waste Collection and Transportation

Rules for garbage trucks, recycling pickups, and hauling permits.

Requirements for licensed haulers.

Standards for containers, routes, and frequency of collection.

B. Landfill Operation and Management

Rules for design, operation, and maintenance of landfills.

Standards for waste compaction, cover, and leachate management.

Procedures for inspections and reporting.

C. Waste Reduction and Recycling

Guidelines for recycling programs within the district.

Promotion of composting and waste diversion.

Public education programs on proper disposal.

D. Hazardous and Special Waste

Handling of household hazardous waste.

Procedures for restricted waste types like electronics or tires.

Requirements for safe disposal and transport.

E. Fees and Permits

Fees for landfill use, hauling permits, and special waste services.

Licensing of private waste management companies operating in the district.

F. Enforcement and Penalties

Fines for illegal dumping or non-compliance.

Authority to suspend or revoke permits.

Procedures for investigations, hearings, and appeals.

4. Structure of Rules in Agency 221

Rules are usually organized in chapters or sections, each covering a different area of solid waste management:

Chapter 1 – General Provisions: Defines key terms (like “solid waste,” “hauler,” “landfill”) and establishes the district’s authority.

Chapter 2 – Collection and Hauling: Rules for licensed waste collectors and permitted vehicles.

Chapter 3 – Landfill Operation: Standards for landfill design, maintenance, and inspections.

Chapter 4 – Recycling and Waste Reduction: Guidelines for programs and public participation.

Chapter 5 – Fees and Permits: Licensing, fees, and application processes.

Chapter 6 – Enforcement and Penalties: Violations, fines, and hearings.

5. Key Functions of Agency 221 Rules

Public Health Protection: Prevent disease and pollution by controlling solid waste.

Environmental Protection: Avoid contamination of soil, water, and air.

Regulation of Industry: Ensure private haulers and landfill operators comply with state and district rules.

Promote Recycling and Waste Reduction: Encourage sustainable waste practices.

Legal Enforcement: Gives the district authority to enforce rules, levy fines, and resolve disputes.

6. Interaction with Citizens and Businesses

Citizens: Must follow local rules for garbage disposal, recycling, and hazardous waste drop-offs.

Businesses & Haulers: Must be licensed and comply with collection, transport, and landfill rules.

Public Education: The district may provide information on proper disposal, recycling, and composting.

Complaints: Citizens can report illegal dumping or improper waste management practices.

7. Why Agency 221 Matters

Ensures safe disposal of solid waste in Saline County.

Protects local water, soil, and air quality from contamination.

Ensures fair regulation of waste management businesses.

Promotes sustainable practices like recycling and composting.

Prevents illegal dumping and environmental hazards.

In short:
Agency 221 in the Arkansas Administrative Code contains the rules for the Saline County Regional Solid Waste Management District. It regulates waste collection, landfill operation, recycling, hazardous waste, fees, and enforcement to protect public health, the environment, and ensure proper waste management in Saline County.

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