Abstract: About 190 million tons of coal ash will be produced annually by coal-burning power plant in China by the end of this century. How to dispose and use the large-tonnage coal ash is a complex problem related to many subjects. This paper attempts to synthesize the recent development and geotechnical aspects in coal ash disposal and utilization. Detailed description and discussion are presented on the following topics:The wet and dry methods of coal ash disposal and their merits and demerits.The different types and features of ash-retention dam.The nonhomogeneity and anisotropy of the coal ash deposit and anti-piping ability of the coal ash.The seepage analysis, static and dynamic stability analysis of the ash- retention dam.The prototype observation of the ash-retention dam.The enviromental protection of the coal ash storage area.The utilization of the coal ash in constructional material, structure fill and road engineering etc.