Understanding the Cost of New Jersey Recycling
Recycling approval pricing in New Jersey can vary widely depending on your operation, what materials you handle, and the type of approval required.
On this page, we explain how recycling approval costs work, why pricing can range so much, and how to think about budgeting for a recycling approval that fits your specific situation instead of relying on rough guesses or one-size-fits-all estimates.
New Jersey recycling approval costs can vary significantly because approvals are highly site-specific. The requirements depend on where you operate, the materials involved, the scale of your operation, and the type of approval NJDEP requires.
At RMA, recycling approval projects in New Jersey typically range from $2,500 to $30,000. Smaller, more straightforward approvals fall toward the lower end. More complex operations that require detailed applications, agency coordination, or multiple approval steps fall higher.
We know that’s a wide range. That’s because recycling approvals are not one-size-fits-all. The calculator below helps narrow that range based on your specific situation so you can get a more realistic starting point before deciding how to move forward. Try it now!
New Jersey recycling approvals require a clear understanding of what materials you handle, how your operation functions, and which approval classes apply. Here's what our services often include:
✓ A recycling activity and materials review to understand what wastes or materials you generate, which ones may qualify as recyclable, and which ones do not under New Jersey regulations.
✓ Evaluation of applicable recycling approval classes so you understand which NJDEP recycling approval classes apply to your operation and what activities are allowed or restricted under each.
✓ Clear guidance on what you can and cannot recycle under each approval type, including limitations, conditions, and operational requirements that are often overlooked.
✓ Preparation and submission of recycling approval applications tailored to the specific approval class or classes your operation requires, rather than forcing a generic application.
✓ Coordination with NJDEP during review to respond to questions, provide additional information, and help keep the approval process moving forward.
✓ Support through approval issuance so you understand the final approval conditions, operational limits, and compliance obligations once approval is granted.
✓ Practical guidance on next steps including recordkeeping, reporting, inspections, and how to stay within the bounds of your approved recycling activities.
With RMA, the goal is not just to obtain a recycling approval, but to make sure the approval you receive actually matches how your operation works and what materials you intend to handle.
Because recycling approvals in New Jersey are highly specific to your operation. Costs depend on what materials you handle, how you handle them, where you operate, and which NJDEP recycling approval class applies. A small change in activity or material can shift the approval requirements significantly.
You’re paying for professional review of your materials and operations, determination of the correct recycling approval class, preparation of the application, and support through NJDEP review. The goal is to obtain an approval that matches your actual activities and avoids future compliance issues.
Many companies don’t, and that’s normal. Part of our role is to help determine which approval class or classes apply based on your materials and processes. We also explain what activities are allowed under each class and where the limits are, so you don’t unintentionally operate outside your approval.
In some limited cases, yes. In many others, no. New Jersey has specific rules about when recycling activities require approval and when they do not. Assuming an activity is exempt without confirmation is a common mistake and one of the main reasons companies run into enforcement issues.
This happens more often than people realize. If that’s the case, we help assess your current activities, determine what approval is needed, and guide you through the process of bringing operations into compliance without unnecessary disruption.
Possibly. The pricing discussed on this page covers RMA’s consulting fees for helping you determine the correct recycling approval, manage the application process, and operate compliantly as a recycling facility in NJ.
Depending on your situation, there may also be NJDEP application fees, operational changes required to meet approval conditions, and ongoing costs associated with running a recycling operation. Those costs are part of recycling in New Jersey and are separate from our consulting fees.
For many companies, yes. Recycling approvals can be nuanced, and applying for the wrong approval or misunderstanding the limits can create compliance risk. Professional support often saves time, reduces back-and-forth with NJDEP, and helps ensure the approval you receive actually works for your operation.
That’s one of the most common questions we get! We’re happy to review your situation and give you an honest answer, even if that answer is that no approval is required for what you’re doing.
New Jersey recycling approval pricing varies because recycling approvals are highly dependent on what you do, what materials you handle, and how your operation is set up. There is no single approval that works for everyone, and small differences between facilities can change the approval path entirely.
The type of recycling activity you plan to conduct is one of the biggest cost drivers. Simple activities with clear regulatory...
New Jersey recycling approval pricing varies because recycling approvals are highly dependent on what you do, what materials you handle, and how your operation is set up. There is no single approval that works for everyone, and small differences between facilities can change the approval path entirely.
The type of recycling activity you plan to conduct is one of the biggest cost drivers. Simple activities with clear regulatory pathways generally require less effort than more complex operations involving processing, blending, or handling multiple materials.
Not all materials are treated the same under New Jersey recycling rules. Some materials clearly qualify for recycling under certain approval classes, while others may be restricted or prohibited. Determining what qualifies and what does not is a key part of the process.
New Jersey uses different recycling approval classes, each with its own conditions and limitations. Some approvals are more straightforward to obtain. Others require more detailed applications, supporting documentation, and agency coordination.
Smaller operations with limited throughput are generally simpler to permit than larger or higher-volume facilities. As scale increases, so do review requirements, documentation needs, and NJDEP scrutiny.
Where your operation is located can affect the approval process. Zoning, site history, surrounding land use, and environmental sensitivity can all influence what NJDEP requires as part of the review.
Facilities that are still in the planning stage are often easier to align with approval requirements than facilities that are already operating and need to adjust practices to meet regulatory expectations.
Some applications move smoothly through NJDEP review. Others involve follow-up questions, clarification requests, or revisions. Additional agency coordination increases the time and effort required to complete the approval process.
While recycling approvals are inherently site-specific, there are practical ways to manage scope and cost.
Knowing exactly what materials you plan to recycle and how they will be handled helps avoid pursuing the wrong approval or submitting incomplete applications.
Pursuing the correct recycling approval class upfront reduces delays, revisions, and rework later in the process.
Designing operations with approval requirements in mind is almost always easier and less expensive than retrofitting an existing operation.
Many companies start with a narrower approval and expand later as operations grow. This phased approach can spread cost and reduce upfront complexity.
Every project is different, but the examples below help illustrate how scope influences pricing.
For straightforward activities involving limited materials and clear approval pathways.
Typical Range: $2,500 to $7,500
For operations handling multiple materials or requiring more detailed applications and NJDEP coordination.
Typical Range: $7,500 to $15,000
For larger or more complex operations with higher throughput, site-specific considerations, or extended agency review.
Typical Range: $15,000 to $30,000
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
For simple activities, some companies can navigate the process on their own. Many clients work with us because recycling approvals can be nuanced, and operating under the wrong approval or misunderstanding the limits can create real compliance risk.
Our role is to help you pursue the right approval, avoid unnecessary restrictions, and end up with an approval that actually works for how your business operates.
We’ve worked with businesses across New Jersey to help them understand when recycling approvals apply, choose the right approval path, and navigate NJDEP, county, and local requirements with fewer surprises. From new operations to existing facilities needing updates or corrections, companies trust RMA to guide the process and get it done the right way.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have known RMA (and Doug Ruhlin) for over 12 years, working closely with him at NRMCA. He has always been a great spokesman and friend of our industry. Through the association, he works tirelessly to provide excellent programs and tools for our industry. His desire to see our industry move forward and grow has been an integral part of driving the Operations, Environment & Safety Committee within NRMCA. Recently we contracted with RMA on a time-sensitive project, they were able to meet our needs with quality service. Their knowledge of our industry and quick feel for our company made for a very smooth project. RMA understands the challenges our industry faces and helps provide effective solutions. I highly recommend RMA and we will definitely use them as future needs arise.
Tom Foley
Vulcan Materials
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Resource Management Associates is a key influence to our environmental program. We operate several ready-mix concrete plants in 3 states, which all have unique regulations to deal with. They've assisted in everything from seeking approvals from local townships, preparing SWPPPs, environmental training for employees, and establishing environmental best practices at our concrete plants. RMA has done an excellent job of maintaining compliance with new environmental laws and regulations. By working with RMA we have been proactive and are one step ahead of any visits from environmental agencies.
Bill Petrillo
Heritage Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Thank you for the continuing support and dedication given to Newark Asphalt Corp. over the last twenty years. Your consulting services have proven to be invaluable. Your knowledge and skillful approach in working with the NJDEP is truly an asset to our company. Our SWPPP has always been complete, concise, and user friendly. You have provided a plan that is formatted for all to navigate through with ease, and one that does not have unnecessary nomenclature. Newark Asphalt Corp. will continue our successful relationship with Resource Management Associates into the future based on Mr. Ruhlin's professionalism, vast knowledge, and devotion.
Joseph Biggica
Newark Asphalt Corp.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I first met Doug of RMA in 2002 when I attended an environmental course he developed for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association. Doug’s ability to effectively communicate and explain the voluminous environmental regulations pertaining to the concrete industry is remarkable. He is truly a gifted speaker and teacher. If you are new to the industry or the environmental field, I strongly recommend participating in Doug’s courses. Since then, we’ve worked together on several projects including an NPDES permitting, and most recently, further development of the Green-Star EMS Program at NRMCA. Doug’s passion, experience, and insight are always welcomed assets on any environmental project.
Ryan Sewell
US Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I’ve known Doug of RMA for over 4 years and have seen him tirelessly and passionately promote best management practices to the industries and good stewardship of the environment while exhibiting a refreshingly honest and compassionate concern for the business. It does not take long for one to see and feel Doug’s enthusiasm and commitment when talking to him or hearing him educate a group on the subject of environmental compliance. He manages to do this while helping the end user accomplish this sometimes incompressible task economically. Having hired RMA to assist with decoding the mass of sometimes confusing and contradicting US EPA and state DEP regulations, I can say with confidence that they know our industry very well. I heartily recommend RMA and Doug Ruhlin for anyone needing professional and ethical council with environmental compliance.
Owen Blevins
Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Simply put, as a consultant to the ready mixed concrete industry, Doug Ruhlin and the staff of RMA are one of the foremost authorities in terms of environmental regulations, permits, and responsibilities.
Gary Mullings
National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Doug Ruhlin has significantly helped bring sustainability to the concrete industry. The first work we did together was on the NPCA Sustainability Committee. His impact was immediate and positive. Doug brings a holistic view of sustainability. I would ask Doug to explain a concept to the committee and he would arrive prepared and armed with a PowerPoint presentation. He is great communicator and possesses a wealth of knowledge on sustainability and environmental affairs. I hope to continue working with Doug for many years as we continue our good work with the committee.
Claude Goguen
National Precast Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have known RMA for fifteen years and found them to be extremely professional, with a special insight for identifying issues others might overlook. Their keen eye and excellent communication skills set them apart from other environmental consultants. We are always relieved when we learn that RMA has been involved in a client’s environmental assessments and compliance programs.
Pierre Villere
Allen Villere Partners
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Doug of RMA has prospered as an environmental consulting firm by seamlessly combining his experience as an educator with his expertise as a respected environmental professional to analyze and communicate complex technical issues to both company management as well as the general public. This unique talent has helped cement Doug's reputation as THE environmental voice for the construction materials industry.
John Hayden
Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have come to know RMA through our affiliation with the New Jersey Concrete and Aggregate Association. I continue to be impressed with their knowledge and professionalism. Perhaps more importantly, their passion for our industry and the work that he does is unparalleled. I do not hesitate recommending him for your environmental needs.
Ken Yuhas
Grace Construction Products
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have known Doug Ruhlin of RMA for nearly 20 years. RMA has been a leader in the environmental arena for all of that time. They're intimately versed in the key environmental issues that affect aggregates and concrete producers; they know the laws, regulations and both industries thoroughly. RMA has helped steer the formulation of new regulations and they have helped to direct industry's response to the current and new regulations - in multiple states. I would not acquire an existing operation or start a greenfield plant or quarry without consulting Doug.
Tarek Khan
BASF
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
If you're looking for an environmental professional who really knows and understands the concrete industry, Doug Ruhlin is THE guy. The fact that he is a great teacher and communicator is just a bonus.
Greg Vickers
Monumental Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I had the honor of being able to hear Doug speak on a number of occasions at various seminars and conferences. His ability to captivate an audience is remarkable. His vast knowledge of the ready mix concrete industry, laws, regulations and environmental awareness is something I would one day hope to achieve being a consultant myself. If you ever have the chance to speak to Mr. Ruhlin please do, you will not regret it.
Dylan Drudul
City of Rockville, MD Public Works
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have been working with Doug over the last year. His help to support the Concrete Industry Management (CIM) Program and students is phenomenal. His expertise in the field of Environmental/sustainability is phenomenal. His training ability is exceptional. My students were attached to him from day 1. I would like to thank him greatlye for what he did and has been doing to our program.
Mohamed Mahgoub
New Jersey Institute of Technology - Concrete Industry Management Dept
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I have known RMA for many years and I greatly respect their knowledge. They've served on concrete industry committees in leadership roles and have helped develop and professionalize the concrete industry's body of knowledge with regard to environmental management and compliance. The Tennessee Concrete Association hired Doug Ruhlin of RMA to help with a revision to our NPDES Stormwater Management Plan when our statewide permit was last revised. Doug (and RMA's) work was excellent and I am happy to recommend them to others.
Alan Sparkman
Tenessee Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Dennis and the RMA team are super helpful, responsive and organized. I would not have been able to put an SPCC plan together as a small business owner without RMA. They've been amazing. Highly recommend.
Nate Gunderson
Filta Environmental Kitchen Solutions
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I've worked regularly with RMA since 2018. The team is outstanding and every interaction has been positive. They have a legacy of industry expertise already built and they're constantly exploring new ways to help clients.
Travis Keener
Hydration Engineering, PLLC
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
We had the pleasure of working with RMA for our environmental consulting needs, and we are thoroughly impressed with their expertise and professionalism. From the initial consultation to the final permit issuance, their team was knowledgeable, thorough, and responsive. Doug, Tate & their team took the time to understand our specific challenges and provided clear, actionable advice that helped us navigate environmental regulations for our recycling facility with the DEP and EPA officials. Their attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work exceeded our expectations. They even helped us by looping in other specialized professionals to complete various required testing/ tasks for our permit application. If you're looking for an environmental consulting firm that is reliable, knowledgeable, and results-driven, I highly recommend RMA. They are true professionals who go above and beyond to support their clients.
Steph Smith
Peach Country
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
County Concrete has quarry and redi-mix concrete operations. We have used RMA for over 20-years and and RMA has consistently provided us with sound advice on a wide range of NJDEP matters, and streamlined and simplified our stormwater management reporting.
Kurt Peters
County Concrete Corp.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Very knowledgeable. Answers are questions and gives easy to understand information. Quick response.
Susan Allen
Shore Sand and Gravel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
RMA has provided consistent and reliable support for all environmental matters brought to them. They can be both to the point or really dig into the issue depending on what is needed. Highly respected!
Bryan Wigginton
CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Over the last 25 years I found Doug and his RMA team to always provide a very professional approach to solving problems. Their knowledge of the concrete and aggregate industry has continuously helped us at Concrete Plants Inc. to handle those difficult environmental questions.
Emil Garlewicz
Concrete Plants Inc.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Have been doing business with Doug and his team for approx 5 years now and have found they are always quick to respond and very knowledgeable in their field. Great company!
Frank McIntyre
L&L Paving Co
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Doug and his team are top notch. Decades of experience really pays dividends. I have had the opportunity to work with RMA on multiple projects over the years and they were professional from start to finish. You are in good hands with RMA.
David Sulock
Curren Environmental
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
RMA has been incredibly responsive and understanding throughout our relationship. We have had several changes and they have always calmly handled our environmental needs. Their team has done an awesome job explaining the requirements and training multiple levels of our organization on our responsibilities and requirements. In short, Doug, Chris, Amy and team have been awesome professionals who've provided a valuable service and always had our backs.
Dave Busch
Arrow Material Services
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
After an extensive search, our firm hired RMA to educate our team on industry environmental best practices. Doug and his team were very thorough in their presentation and supporting documentation, and gave us a real world expectation of what we should be mindful of regarding reclaiming, slurry water, pH levels, permitting and other topics. I would highly recommend RMA to any company interested in understanding the important elements of environmental compliance, sustainability and those interested in positioning themselves as leaders in environmental stewardship.
Owen Blevins
Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I've had the privilege to work with RMA on multiple occasions. I cannot recommend them enough. In the complex, ever-changing world of environmental management - they help make it digestible. Everyone there is incredibly approachable and has a wealth of knowledge. Once you work with them, you won't want to work with anyone else.
Jacob Canale
Silvi Materials
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tremendous help RMA was with permit transfers for a newly acquired company. Chris, Amy, always there to answer any questions that I had throughout the process. Appreciate the help they give keeping us to stay in compliance with training during the year.
Chris Young
Tanis Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Resource Management was very flexible with scheduling and worked a Phase 1 assessment at one of our locations providing great insight and recommendations.
Dino Faiola
Pennsy Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
RMA was the best they are so helpful, and very responsive to my calls and emails. I give them a 5 STAR!
Dina Tammaro
Empire Transit Mix Inc.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
We have been using RMA for several years. They always go above and beyond our expectations.
Phillip Hudson
Cumberland Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Could not ask for better support! RMA should be your choice as well!
Bryan Wigginton
CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Wonderful staff. Provides detailed explanations in a manner that is easy to understand. Quick to respond.
Susan Allen
Shore Sand and Gravel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A great consulting company.
Patrick Buster
Braen Stone Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
RMA and the professionals that run the company took a chance on me starting about 7 years ago and we've worked steadily together every since. As a subcontractor, I appreciate how effortlessly my invoices get processed. Everyone could use a Doug Ruhlin, the RMA founder, in their life. He may not always tell people what they want to hear, but he uses his vast experience to help the next generation of professionals build on his legacy and move forward with confidence.
Travis Keener, PE
Hydration Engineering, PLLC
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Doug and his firm consistently offer the highest quality of environmental services in the ready mixed concrete industry.
Frank Cavaliere
National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
Whether you need help with a single requirement or want to hand off your entire environmental program, we get it done right, the first time. You'll feel protected, confident in your company's regulatory standing, and ready for whatever comes next.
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