Decoding APCD Rule 1206: A San Diego Homeowner's Guide to Asbestos Regulations

Decoding APCD Rule 1206: A San Diego Homeowner's Guide to Asbestos Regulations

When it comes to handling asbestos in your home, safety is the top priority. But in San Diego County, it’s also a matter of law. A complex web of regulations from local, state, and federal agencies governs every aspect of asbestos management. For a homeowner, navigating these rules can be daunting, but understanding your responsibilities is the first step in protecting yourself from significant legal and financial penalties.

The primary regulation every San Diego property owner must know is District Rule 1206, enforced by the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). This rule is not just for large commercial projects; it applies to residential properties, condominiums, and apartments, and it is designed to protect public health from the release of airborne asbestos fibers.  

Here are the key provisions of Rule 1206 that directly impact homeowners:

  • The 100 Square Foot Threshold: The rule’s requirements are triggered if your project will disturb more than 100 square feet of Regulated Asbestos-Containing Material (RACM). It’s crucial to note that this is a cumulative total. Multiple small projects at the same facility within a 365-day period can add up to meet this threshold.
  • Mandatory Pre-Work Survey: This is one of the most critical and often overlooked requirements. Before any renovation or demolition work begins, a facility survey must be performed to determine if asbestos-containing materials are present. This is required regardless of the building’s age. You cannot simply assume a newer home is asbestos-free. This survey must be conducted by a trained and accredited asbestos professional.  
  • 10-Day Notification is Required: If your project meets the threshold, the APCD must be notified online or via email at least ten (10) working days before any asbestos removal or demolition activity begins. This includes site preparation that could disturb the material. This notification ensures regulators are aware of the work and can perform inspections if necessary.  

While the APCD sets the local rules, they are part of a larger regulatory framework. At the state level, two primary bodies are involved:

  • Cal/OSHA: The Division of Occupational Safety and Health requires that any contractor performing work on more than 100 square feet of asbestos-containing material be registered with its Asbestos Contractors’ Registration Unit (ACRU). This involves a rigorous review of the contractor’s procedures, training, and insurance.  
  • CSLB: The Contractors State License Board issues the C-22 Asbestos Abatement specialty license. This is a stand-alone classification required for any contractor who performs asbestos abatement . The CSLB will not issue this license unless the contractor is also registered with Cal/OSHA, creating a dual layer of state-level vetting .

Finally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the overarching national standards for asbestos handling and disposal. These regulations are actively enforced in our region, demonstrating the seriousness with which all levels of government treat this issue.  

For a homeowner, this complex regulatory landscape translates into one clear, non-negotiable reality: asbestos work is not a DIY project. California law explicitly states that you cannot remove or disturb any quantity of asbestos-containing material unless you are a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. These regulations are in place to protect you, your family, and your community from exposure to a known carcinogen. Attempting to bypass them is a risk that is simply not worth taking.

Contact Us

Navigating this regulatory labyrinth is our expertise. CVE Corp. is a fully licensed and certified asbestos abatement contractor. We handle all necessary surveys, testing, and notifications to ensure your project is fully compliant with all local, state, and federal laws, giving you complete peace of mind.

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