As previously reported in Practice Advisory Issue 15, Issue 16, Issue 23, and Issue 27, members working on construction projects that involve excavated soil should be familiar with the requirements as well as understand the project team’s roles and responsibilities under the Environmental Protection Act.

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) amended O. Reg. 406/19, the On-Site and Excess Soil Management regulation, and the 207-page Rules for Soil Management and Excess Soil Quality Standards document on April 23, 2024. These amendments are already in effect. They clarify a number of issues, including rules for interim storage sites, sampling requirements, reuse of salt-impacted soil, hauling records, and storage near waterbodies. More information is available from the Environmental Registry of Ontario – ERO number 019-7636

This article originally appeared in the Practice Advisory, a newsletter developed by the OAA’s Practice Advisory Services team, which offers numerous resources for both members and the public.

The OAA does not provide legal, insurance, or accounting advice. Readers are advised to consult their own legal, accounting, or insurance representatives to obtain suitable professional advice in those regards.