Concrete Washout Requirements in New Jersey: Containment and Compliance
In New Jersey, concrete washout is allowed only in a designated washout area, and hardened concrete has to be removed and properly disposed of. That comes from the state’s construction stormwater permit, known as 5G3.
What the 5G3 permit says about concrete washout
New Jersey’s Construction Activity Stormwater General Permit, 5G3 (permit NJ0088323, effective March 1, 2022 through February 28, 2027), has a concrete washout rule in Attachment B, section 4.g:
- Concrete washout on site is prohibited outside designated areas. That covers washing trucks, chutes, hoses, mixers, hoppers and tools.
- Designated washout areas must keep the washout out of surface and ground water.
- Hardened concrete from the washout must be removed and properly disposed of.
Source: NJDEP 5G3 Construction Activity Stormwater General Permit, Attachment B ยง4.g.
Compliant containment on a New Jersey job site
The rule’s goal is simple: concrete washout water and slurry stay in the designated area and never reach a storm drain or a waterway. When an inspector walks the site, the question is whether the washout is contained, in one place, and not overflowing. Your SWPPP and your soil conservation district set the rest of the site details.
A watertight container covers the permit’s goal, no discharge to surface or ground water, and CleanSite handles the removal and disposal of the hardened concrete.
How New Jersey’s rule fits with the EPA’s
Construction stormwater permits come from the federal Clean Water Act’s NPDES program. The EPA’s own Construction General Permit says concrete wash water must go into a leak-proof container or a leak-proof pit that can’t overflow. New Jersey runs its own NPDES program through NJDEP, and 5G3 is the state’s version.
Source: EPA 2022 Construction General Permit, Part 2.3.4.
Washout systems that meet the 5G3 permit on a job site
A pit can meet the letter of the permit, but it can leak and the crew has to maintain it. A watertight washout container covers the containment goal with less upkeep, and removal of the hardened concrete is part of the service.
Soil conservation districts
In New Jersey, soil erosion and sediment control plans are reviewed and certified by local soil conservation districts under the Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Act (N.J.S.A. 4:24-39 et seq.), and district staff inspect sites to check the plan is followed.
Source: NJ Department of Agriculture, Soil Erosion and Sediment Control.
New Jersey washout FAQ
Does New Jersey require a concrete washout sign?
Yes. The 5G3 permit says the washout area must be clearly designated with a sign showing its use.
Can I wash out concrete anywhere on a New Jersey site?
No. Washout outside designated areas is prohibited under the 5G3 permit.
Who inspects erosion control in New Jersey?
Local soil conservation districts review, certify and inspect soil erosion and sediment control plans.
This page summarizes public rules and isn’t legal advice. Check your SWPPP and local requirements.
Related pages
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