Compliance
RCRA waste codes
How the federal code system works, and how to find the code that applies to your stream.
RCRA waste codes fall into two groups. Characteristic codes (D001 to D043) apply when a waste fails a test for ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity or toxicity. Listed codes (F, K, P and U) apply when a waste appears on a published list, regardless of how it tests.
Source: 40 CFR Part 261, Subparts C and DThe four code families
Every RCRA hazardous waste carries at least one of these.
- D codes, characteristic waste. D001 ignitable, D002 corrosive, D003 reactive, D004 to D043 toxic by TCLP
- F codes, non specific source waste. Spent solvents, electroplating sludges, wood preserving and refinery waste
- K codes, specific source waste. Named process residues from named industries
- P codes, acutely hazardous discarded commercial chemical products. A 1 kg monthly threshold applies
- U codes, toxic discarded commercial chemical products
Characteristic or listed, and why it matters
A characteristic waste is hazardous because of how it behaves. Treat it so it no longer exhibits the characteristic and, with limits, it can leave the system. A listed waste is hazardous because of what it is, and it carries its listing until it is destroyed or formally delisted.
That distinction drives cost. A D001 solvent that is blended into fuel has been recovered. An F003 solvent that is blended into fuel is still F003, and the land disposal restriction treatment standard for F003 still governs. Two drums that look identical can take very different routes.
Finding your codes
The determination is the generator's duty under 40 CFR 262.11. In practice:
- Start with process knowledge. What went in, what the process did, what came out
- Check the listings first. A listed waste is listed whether or not it fails a test
- Test by TCLP where a characteristic is plausible and knowledge is not conclusive
- Apply every code that fits. Multiple codes on one stream is normal
- Record the basis and keep it three years under 40 CFR 262.40
Every waste code
Common questions
Can one waste carry several codes?
Yes, and it commonly does. A spent solvent can be F005 listed, D001 ignitable and D035 toxic at the same time. Every applicable code goes on the manifest, and the most stringent treatment standard governs.
What is the mixture rule?
Under 40 CFR 261.3, a mixture of a listed hazardous waste and a solid waste is hazardous in its entirety, regardless of how little listed waste is present. Mixtures involving only characteristic waste are hazardous only if the mixture still exhibits a characteristic.
Do state codes differ from federal codes?
They can. Authorized states may add codes or regulate wastes the federal program does not. Several states carry their own codes for used oil, universal waste or state only hazardous waste, so the federal list is the floor and not the whole picture.
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Not sure how this applies to your site?
Send a profile, an old manifest, or photographs of the drums. A technical professional will tell you where you stand.
This page summarizes federal requirements and is not legal advice. State programs can be more stringent than the federal baseline. Verify against current federal and state regulations before acting. Last reviewed September 2026.