Construction & Demolition

Compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

During the bird nesting season (February 1 - August 31) contractors and landowners must check for active bird nests before trimming or removing vegetation, to prevent the unlawful "taking" of any migratory bird. The City of Arcata Vegetation Management and Construction Guidelines for the Protection of Nesting Birds (PDF) provides seasonal guidelines that will help you decide when to limb trees, trim brush, and remove vegetation. Contact the Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184 if you require assistance or further information.

For more information on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, click here.

Reducing, Reusing, & Recycling Waste Materials

According to CalRecycle, construction and demolition (C&D) materials are estimated to account for approximately 25 percent of the disposed waste stream. Common C&D materials include lumber, drywall, metals, masonry, carpet, plastic, pipe, rocks, dirt, paper, cardboard, or green waste related to land development. Many of these materials can be reused or recycled, thus prolonging our supply of natural resources and potentially saving money in the process.

In an effort to reduce waste, conserve energy and resources, and reduce air, soil, and water pollution, all C&D projects in the City of Arcata must reduce, reuse, and recycle waste materials and submit both a Waste Management Plan (PDF) and a Waste Management Final Report (PDF) for each project. Reporting is required by the City of Arcata Land Use Guide (PDF) Article 9.54.050-Construction Materials Recycling, and the California Green Building Code (PDF) Section 5.408 requires construction waste diversion and waste reduction. Requirements include diversion, recycling or salvaging of at least 50% of non-hazardous construction materials.