Wastes containing naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) are generally not regulated by federal agencies. One exception is that the transportation of NORM-containing wastes is subject to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. In addition, NORM management activities may be subject to regulations promulgated by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).

By definition, NORM is not subject to regulatory control under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 or the Low Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act. Because of these regulatory exclusions, NORM is subject primarily only to individual state radiation control regulations. The state regulatory requirements applicable to NORM-containing wastes can be reviewed on the State Regulations & Guidelines page.

Several organizations have been actively developing guidance on the regulation of NORM. To review what these organizations are doing, see Related Information.