Management at Kerry County Council (KCC) has assured councillors that those working with construction and demolition (C&D) waste have been made aware of new regulations.
A ten euro (€10) per tonne levy on such waste came into full effect at all authorised recovery sites on 1 March this year.
The measure forms part of national efforts to support the circular economy by encouraging the reuse and recycling of building materials, rather than their disposal.
The Department of the Environment says C & D is the largest single waste stream in the EU, making up around one third of all waste produced annually.
Council officials say information on the new charges was issued to operators in advance, and that engagement with the industry is ongoing to provide further clarity where needed.
However, Councillor Niall Kelleher has raised concerns about the level of awareness within the sector.
He says some operators fear the levy will increase costs rather than support recycling, and believes more promotion is needed.
Council management says the changes are intended to encourage materials such as soil, stone, old road surfaces, and concrete to be reused as by-products, rather than treated as waste.
Further guidance will be circulated to councillors to help clarify the regulations.
