Salt Lake Valley Health Department
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Solid and Hazardous Waste
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Emergency Response program? What does it do?
You name it; the Emergency Response program does it. Hazardous waste spill? We’re there. Illegal dumping? Ditto. Meth labs, disease outbreaks, restaurant fires, filthy houses, strange odors, if it happens after hours or on weekends we are the Health Department’s first responders. We can even answer your non-emergency questions and hopefully refer you to the correct agency.
How can I get a copy of my birth certificate on the weekend?
Sorry, we can’t help you there. We can’t access the Health Department database, nor can we issue you a food handler’s or temporary event permit at the last minute. However, we can refer you to the right people for those things. You probably will have to wait until the next business day to be able to get it, though.
What do you do at a hazardous waste spill?
We work with the fire department and police to make sure the spill is contained and no human lives are threatened and the environment is protected. The on call inspector then works with the responsible parties, local agencies and private contractors to ensure any environmental contamination is contained and cleaned up.
What if I want to file a complaint on the weekend?
You may call us to verify if you have a legitimate complaint, but we will probably not take the complaint and instead refer you to the proper Health Department agency.
If I see what I think is an illegal discharge or a health hazard in my neighborhood, then should I call you?
Yes, if it is after regular business hours or on the weekend. Our number is (801) 468-2710 and someone is on duty there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year including holidays. If it’s not a situation that requires immediate response we will refer you to the appropriate agency. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; if it looks suspicious or dangerous then it probably is.