The Darmstadt Regional Council reminds the public of their obligations regarding waste disposal and pollutant management.
Darmstadt. Since mid-October, a new building code , exempting numerous demolition projects from the previous permitting requirement . This will make it easier to start construction projects in the future – but with a crucial consequence: property owners now bear significantly more responsibility , particularly regarding the proper disposal of construction and demolition waste.
The Darmstadt Regional Council (RP) points out that despite the simplification, all waste management regulations in effect. These include, in particular, the separate collection of waste , the prohibition of mixing hazardous substances , and the high-quality recycling of materials. Anyone who violates these regulations faces fines or criminal prosecution .
Previously, the regional council (RP) checked compliance with waste management regulations as part of the building permit process. In the future, this preliminary check will be replaced by targeted on-site monitoring – violations will be consistently prosecuted.
"Timely coordination with the regional council ensures a smooth project process," the authority stated. Failure to do so could lead to delays or legal consequences – particularly in cases of improper handling of hazardous waste such as asbestos .
Even when external companies are contracted, the responsibility for waste disposal remains with the client . Therefore, the selection and monitoring of qualified waste disposal companies
High-risk construction projects
According to RP, particular attention should be paid to:
- the demolition of industrial buildings ,
- older buildings (built before 1995, often containing asbestos or PCBs),
- as well as civil engineering works in potentially contaminated subsoil.
A hazardous materials assessment and a waste disposal plan required here. The regional council can request these documents at any time to proper and environmentally sound waste management .
The Hessian building information sheet offers building owners practical guidance – including on requirements for waste disposal concepts and contact points of the waste management departments.
Background: Why proper waste management is crucial
Failure to separate waste properly or to conduct pollutant tests not only endangers employees and residents, but also the environment and public health. Furthermore, it leads to higher disposal costs and puts a strain on landfill capacity in Hesse.
Further information:
- Darmstadt Regional Council: www.rp-darmstadt.hessen.de/umwelt-und-energie/abfall/bau-und-gewerbeabfall
- Building information sheet: Download here (PDF)
(Darmstadt - Red/RP)
