Reviewed November 2, 2026
Identify the waste before booking a truck. Texas uses different programs for oilfield waste, municipal sludge, industrial waste and hazardous waste.
Which agency handles the load?
| Waste stream | Starting point |
|---|---|
| Nonhazardous oil and gas waste | Hauling for hire off the lease or other property where it was generated generally requires an RRC Waste Hauler Permit. The agency lists produced water and spent drilling mud among oilfield waste streams. RRC waste haulers. |
| Septage, sewage sludge, grease or grit trap waste | TCEQ’s sludge transporter registration covers these streams, along with water treatment residuals and chemical toilet waste. TCEQ sludge program. |
| Industrial Class 1 or hazardous waste under TCEQ jurisdiction | Register with TCEQ. Texas-based hazardous-waste transporters also receive an EPA identification number. TCEQ transportation guide. |
Oilfield hauling: before dispatch
Keep an active P-5 Organization Report, establish RAMP access and apply through LoneSTAR. The RRC’s initial and annual renewal application fee is $250. Hazardous oilfield waste and regulated naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) require review under their separate rules. Current application requirements; hazardous waste and NORM programs.
The generator prepares the waste profile. Off-site vehicle shipments need a compliant paper or electronic manifest; generator, hauler and receiver retain manifests for three years. Check approved vehicles and receiving facilities, carry the permit and vehicle list, and maintain required vehicle markings. 16 TAC 4.190-4.193.
Truck authority
TxDMV registration applies to qualifying intrastate carriers, including commercial vehicles or combinations exceeding 26,000 pounds by gross, registered or rated weight, and placarded hazardous-material loads. Check the TxDMV requirements for your operation.
Keep renewal and reporting dates with the permit file. TCEQ sludge haulers have a separate annual report and fee.