Is household hazardous waste exempt from RCRA regulations?

Household hazardous waste is generally treated differently under RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) regulations compared to other types of hazardous waste. Specifically, household hazardous waste is considered exempt from most RCRA regulations. This exemption is designed to allow households to dispose of common hazardous materials, such as paint, batteries, and cleaners, in a more manageable and less burdensome way compared to industrial generators of hazardous waste.

By exempting household waste from stringent regulations, the law acknowledges the practical challenges and risks associated with the disposal of hazardous materials by private individuals rather than businesses that are expected to follow stricter guidelines. However, it is important to note that while household hazardous waste is exempt from many of the RCRA regulations, it must still be handled and disposed of properly to protect human health and the environment, often through designated collection programs.