The Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority (LCSWMA) requires that all commercial and residential customers transporting waste to any of its facilities use a tarp to secure open loads. LCSWMA will now charge a monetary penalty for those who do not follow this protocol, and second offenders will be turned away.

LCSWMA officials noted that according to Pennsylvania's state and federal requirements, it is the law to tarp loads. The relevant Pennsylvania law states, "Loads must be covered with a securely fastened water-resistant cover that eliminates potential for littering and other nuisances." Tarping is also part of the Lancaster County Municipal Waste Management Plan.

Facility operators and owners such as LCSWMA are responsible for knowing and complying with all relevant laws, regulations, authorizations and permits to help avoid the environmental impacts and public health, safety and welfare issues associated with the transportation of solid waste.

When transporting any waste, objects or materials in an open trailer or vehicle, drivers should tie large objects directly to the vehicle or trailer, never overload the vehicle, check for possibilities of shifting and securely place a water-resistant tarp over the entire open load.