Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Release-Based Clean Up Program Regulation Development

Benefits of transition to a release-based Remediation ProgramUnder a release-based system, Connecticut’s cleanup framework will better serve the state’s economic interests while improving protections to public health and the environment. CGS 22a-134pp-134pp to 134xx charges DEEP to work with the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), legislative leaders, and a variety of environmental and economic stakeholders to chart a new path for Connecticut’s cleanup program.

Next Steps – Working Group

The Release-Based Cleanup Regulations Formal Regulation Adoption process has begun.

Pursuant to CGS section 22a-134tt, DEEP has provided the revised proposed regulations for review by the Working Group prior to moving forward with the formal regulation adoption process. DEEP and DECD will continue to meet with the Working Group monthly to receive additional advice and recommendations on these regulations until they are adopted.

Public comments on the General Permit to Act as a Contractor to Contain or Remove or Otherwise Mitigate the Effects of Certain Releases are due by December 14, 2024.

DEEP is requesting comments on the draft Release Characterization Guidance.  Please submit all comments to DEEP.Cleanup.Transform@ct.gov by January 14, 2025.

Release-Based Program First Year Flow Chart
Stakeholder Engagement
Working Group’s meetings
Legislative Authorization and Comprehensive Evaluation and Transformation
Release-Based Regulations Working Group Members
Release Based Topical Subcommittee Meetings

DEEP is very interested in your comments on this regulatory proposal.

If you would like to invite DEEP to speak with your member organization, please contact us at DEEP.Cleanup.Transform@ct.gov

Content last updated November 14, 2024