Industrial Byproduct Amendments

More material reuse, but coal waste excluded

Beginning May 6, 2026, Utah allows approved industrial byproducts to replace raw materials in more public-benefit construction projects. Eligible projects include roads, walkways, parking facilities, public transportation facilities, and other infrastructure that benefits the public—not just state transportation projects. Eligible materials include inert construction debris, fly ash, bottom ash, slag, fossil-fuel emission-control waste, mineral extraction and processing waste, and cement kiln dust. Contaminated soil also qualifies when removed through cleanup subject to an operation plan under Utah's waste law. Utah's waste division director must respond within 60 days after finding an application complete. Approval requires commercial or industrial health-risk standards, a Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure test, and health-risk standards for installation and reuse. Approved reuse is exempt from the chapter's requirements for human-health or ecological risk assessments, site management plans, and environmental covenants. Coal mine waste, hazardous waste, and materials causing a public nuisance or health hazard cannot qualify.