Space for Collection and Loading of Recyclable Materials in Development Projects: FAQs About PRC 42648

This page answers frequently asked questions as they pertain to the provisions of Public Resources Code 42648, et al. (AB 2176, Montanez, Chapter 879, Statutes of 2004) regarding waste reduction at large venues and large events.

What does PRC 42911(c) mean by a “development project”?

“Development project” is defined in Public Resources Code (PRC) 42905 as:

  1. A project for which a building permit will be required for a commercial, industrial, or institutional building, marina, or residential building having five or more living units, where solid waste is collected and loaded and any residential project where solid waste is collected and loaded in a location serving five or more units.
  2. Any new public facility where solid waste is collected and loaded and any improvements for areas of a public facility used for collecting and loading solid waste.

Refer to CalRecycle’s Recycling Space Allocation Guide for more information on PRC 42911.

Do the provisions of PRC 42911 apply only to venue and event development projects or to all development projects?

PRC 42911 specifies that all development projects requiring a building permit, not just those for venues and events, must provide adequate space for collecting and loading recyclable materials.

My local agency didn’t adopt an ordinance relating to adequate areas for collecting and loading recyclable materials by the September 1, 1994 deadline and CalRecycle’s model took effect. Can we still pass our own and enforce that instead of CalRecycle’s?

Yes.

Note: Public Resources Code 42648, et al. (AB 2176, Montanez, Chapter 879, Statutes of 2004) does not require CalRecycle to regulate or enforce its provisions, but rather to obtain information for future recommendations. CalRecycle will not be adopting regulations and local agencies need to make reasonable determinations based upon the provisions of the statue; CalRecycle will not be formally evaluating or auditing individual local agency determinations. However, as always, CalRecycle staff is available to assist local agencies in making these determinations. In interpreting the legislative intent regarding implementing PRC 42648, the FAQs referenced above may be useful for local agencies and operators of venues and events.

For more information contact: Office of Public Affairs, opa@calrecycle.ca.gov