Asbestos Work Outdoors

Notice

Effective July 1, 2021, roofing, siding, flooring, and ceilings are no longer exempted in residences with four or fewer dwelling units.

Please note this change impacts the amount of the residential project fee you submit to the Minnesota Department of Health. The fee amount will depend on how much friable ACM is subject to abatement, enclosure, and encapsulation:

• If the quantity of friable ACM is greater than six but less than 160 square feet, greater than ten but less than 260 linear feet, or greater than one cubic foot but less than 35 cubic feet, the permit fee is $35.
• If the quantity of friable ACM is greater than 160 square feet, 260 linear feet, or 35 cubic feet, the permit fee is 2% (of the total project cost).

Does MDH regulate asbestos-related work outside a building?

Yes. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) regulates the removal of friable, asbestos-containing material (ACM) outside of a building if the amount exceeds:

• 260 linear feet; or
   
• 160 square feet; or
   
• 35 cubic feet.

OR

the total amount of all friable ACM to be disturbed in the facility during the calendar year will be greater than:

• 260 linear feet; or
   
• 160 square feet; or
   
• 35 cubic feet.

This includes work on roof tops, demolitions and excavations.

What is required for outdoor work?

If the project is regulated by MDH, then the following items are required:

• The work must be performed by a licensed asbestos contractor;
   
• Certified site supervisors and workers must be used;
   
• The contractor must notify MDH of the work and obtain a permit;
   
• The work area must be posted with asbestos warning signs; and
   
• All asbestos waste must be properly handled.

What if I'm working outside a residence?

MDH regulates the project if the ACM is located outside of a residence and the asbestos-related work (ARW) you will be performing on friable ACM, or ACM that you will make friable, is in an amount that meets or exceeds:

• 10 linear feet; or
• 6 square feet; or
• 1 cubic foot.

then all the previous requirements apply:

• licensed contractor;
• certified site supervisors and workers;
• notification and permit; and
• proper waste handling.

How do I find out more information?

For more information about asbestos, contact the Asbestos Program at MDH through the internet or by telephone at (651) 201-4620.