In 2003, City of Austin scientists identified coal tar-based pavement sealants as a significant source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in Austin area stream sediments. Since that time the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the City have conducted additional research that corroborates this finding, concluding that coal tar sealants contribute the majority of stream PAH loading in the Austin area.

The City also conducted a series of biological studies documenting coal tar sealant toxicity and stream degradation from PAHs in this form. There are alternatives to coal tar-based sealants. Visit the frequently asked questions to learn more

Click here for frequently asked questions.

Useful Links

• City of Austin Water Quality Publications
• USGS Coal Tar Sealcoat Webpage
• USGS Fact Sheet on Coal Tar Sealant
• EPA Fact Sheet on Coal Tar Sealant
• PAHs Underfoot:Contaminated Dust from Coal-Tar Sealcoated Pavement is Widespread in the United States
• D.C. Ban on Toxic Pavement Sealants Helps Clean-Up Waterways
• Effects of PAHs on benthic communities below coal tar sealed parking lots (JNABS)
• New York Academy of Science - Harbor Report on PAHs
• Wear rate of coal tar sealant in Austin