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RAO Letter

What Is a Response Action Outcome (RAO) Letter?

Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) Services What Is a Response Action Outcome (RAO) Letter? The Response Action Outcome (RAO) letter is the final and most critical document issued by a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) in New Jersey. It certifies that all remediation activities conducted at a contaminated site have been completed in accordance with NJDEP regulations. The issuance of an RAO effectively closes the environmental case with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
he RAO letter replaces the previous ‘No Further Action (NFA)’ letter used by the NJDEP and is now the required standard for demonstrating regulatory compliance and cleanup completion.

There are two main types of RAO letters

Unrestricted Use RAO

Indicates that the site has been cleaned to the point where it can be used for any purpose without restrictions.

Restricted Use RAO

Indicates that the site is cleaned but has specific engineering or institutional controls in place, such as deed notices, caps, or use restrictions.

When Is an RAO Needed?
You’ll need an RAO in situations including but not limited to:
  • Finalizing cleanup of a spill or discharge from an underground storage tank (UST)
  • Complying with the Industrial Site Recovery Act (ISRA) during property sales or business closures
  • Completing a Brownfield redevelopment project
  • Closing an open NJDEP case
  • Demonstrating environmental compliance during real estate transactions

Why Is an RAO Important?

It signifies official regulatory closure from NJDEP
It’s often required for property transactions, refinancing, and redevelopment
It protects buyers, lenders, and property owners from future liability-provided no new contamination is discovered

Who Issues the RAO?

Only a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) authorized by NJDEP may issue an RAO letter. The LSRP must ensure that all investigations, reports, and remediation steps meet NJDEP’s Technical Requirements for Site Remediation (N.J.A.C. 7:26E) before certification.

Need Help Getting to RAO?

We provide complete LSRP services and can guide you through every step-from site investigation to RAO issuance. Contact us today for a consultation.