FAR 36.001—Definitions.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 36.001 provides three definitions used in FAR Part 36, which governs construction and architect-engineer contracting. It defines “construction and demolition materials and debris,” “diverting,” and “modernization project.” These definitions matter because they set the meaning of key terms used in requirements for construction waste management, recycling and recovery practices, and certain building renovation or replacement efforts. In practice, they help contracting officers write accurate solicitations and contracts, and they help contractors understand when waste diversion expectations or modernization-related requirements apply. The section is short, but it is important because these terms can affect scope, performance standards, sustainability practices, and how a project is described and evaluated.
Key Rules
Construction debris definition
“Construction and demolition materials and debris” includes waste generated during construction, renovation, demolition, or dismantling of structures, buildings, and associated infrastructure. This definition is broad and covers the materials typically handled under construction waste management requirements.
Diversion excludes disposal
“Diverting” means redirecting materials away from landfills or incinerators and toward recycling or recovery. The definition specifically excludes sending materials to waste-to-energy facilities, so that route does not count as diversion under this part.
Modernization project scope
A “modernization project” is one that involves the comprehensive replacement or restoration of virtually all major systems, interior finishes, and building features. The definition signals a substantial renovation effort, not a minor repair or limited upgrade.
Terms apply within Part 36
These definitions apply as used in FAR Part 36. Their meaning is controlled by this part, so users should read them in context with the construction policies and clauses that rely on these terms.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officer
Use these definitions correctly when drafting solicitations, evaluating project scope, and selecting clauses or requirements tied to construction waste diversion or modernization work. Ensure the contract language matches the intended meaning of the project.
Contractor
Understand how the contract uses these terms, especially when planning waste handling, recycling, recovery, and reporting. Do not assume waste-to-energy disposal counts as diversion unless the contract says otherwise.
Agency
Apply the definitions consistently across construction and renovation projects and align internal guidance, sustainability goals, and project descriptions with the FAR meaning of the terms.
Practical Implications
These definitions can determine whether a project triggers waste diversion expectations or is treated as a modernization effort rather than a routine repair.
A common pitfall is counting waste-to-energy disposal as diversion; under this definition, it does not qualify.
Contractors should verify how the solicitation uses “construction and demolition materials and debris” so they can plan sorting, recycling, and disposal methods correctly.
Contracting officers should be careful when describing renovation work, because calling a project a modernization project can affect how the scope is understood and what performance expectations follow.
Because the section is definitional, the main risk is misinterpretation: small wording differences can change compliance obligations and cost assumptions.
Official Regulatory Text
As used in this part- Construction and demolition materials and debris means waste materials and debris generated during construction, renovation, demolition, or dismantling of all structures and buildings and associated infrastructure. Diverting means redirecting materials from disposal in landfills or incinerators to recycling or recovery, excluding diversion to waste-to-energy facilities. Modernization project means a project that includes the comprehensive replacement or restoration of virtually all major systems, interior finishes (such as ceilings, partitions, doors, and floor finishes), and building features.