Dry Cleaning
Dry-cleaning facilities using perchloroethylene (perc) have been strictly regulated for air emissions, hazardous waste and spills. Perc is a hazardous air pollutant and known carcinogen toxic to humans and the environment.
EPA’s Final Rule on Perchloroethylene (Perc or PCE) for Dry Cleaning
In December 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a final rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to address the health risks associated with perchloroethylene (PCE), a solvent commonly used in the dry cleaning industry.
Key Provisions of the Rule:
Phaseout Timeline: The rule establishes a 10-year phaseout period for the use of PCE in dry cleaning. By December 19, 2034, all use of PCE in dry cleaning operations will be prohibited.
Restrictions on New Equipment: Effective June 16, 2025, the use of PCE in newly acquired dry cleaning machines is prohibited. This measure aims to prevent the expansion of PCE use in the industry.
Compliance Dates for Existing Machines: For dry cleaning machines already in operation, compliance dates vary based on the machine’s generation and type:
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After December 20, 2027, PCE may no longer be used in dry cleaning or related spot cleaning in third generation dry cleaning machines.
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After December 19, 2034, PCE may no longer be used in any dry cleaning machine (including fourth and fifth generation machines), nor may PCE be used for spot cleaning.
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Compliance Resources for Dry Cleaners:
The EPA has developed compliance guides to assist dry cleaning businesses in understanding and adhering to the new regulations:
A Guide to Complying with the 2024 Perchloroethylene (PCE) Dry Cleaning Rule (English)
A Guide to Complying with the 2024 Perchloroethylene (PCE) Dry Cleaning Rule (Korean)
These resources provide detailed information on compliance timelines, machine classifications, and recommended actions for businesses transitioning away from PCE use.
2026 Dry Cleaner Compliance Calendar
Download a digital copy of the Pennsylvania DEP dry cleaner compliance calendar for 2026.
2025 Dry Cleaner Compliance Calendar
Download a copy of the latest Pennsylvania DEP dry cleaner compliance calendar. EMAP does have some paper versions of the calendar, so please contact us if you would like a hard copy version.