Permits

Environmental permits are documents that resemble licenses and are used to regulate activities that are potentially harmful to the environment. Government bodies that issue permits use them to track the types and qualities of pollutants released into the environment and to impose standards on permit holders.

Permit requirements exist at all levels of government, although permits usually are administered at the state or local level. At the federal level, the Clean Air Act requires facilities that discharge large amounts of certain pollutants into the air to have operating permits. One permit covers all federal, state, and local air quality control requirements for a facility. Industrial and municipal facilities that discharge into waters, and those who plan to dredge and fill in wetland areas, must obtain permits required by the Clean Water Act. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act requires hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facilities to obtain permits. Most states have their own air, land, and water regulation permit systems. The EPA has granted authority to most state environmental agencies to administer federal environmental law permits, but state laws may call for additional permits. Finally, municipalities may have permit requirements in zoning ordinances that regulate activities in locations. Additionally, municipal ordinances may require permits in an effort to control erosion and water and air pollution.

Some permit programs focus on particular environmentally sensitive geographic areas, rather than on specific activities that may harm the environment. Some geographic areas, such as wetlands, coastal areas, and wilderness areas, are identified for special protection by federal, state, or local regulations. Landowners and developers must determine whether their properties are close proximity to or include specially protected areas. There may be strict permit requirements for activities in or near these areas.

There are a wide variety of requirements that may be imposed on permit applicants or holders. Often, public notification and comment are required for permit applications, modifications, and renewals. Permit holders may have to monitor discharges, test surrounding areas for contamination, and report the results to government agencies. Permits may require to notification of government bodies and the public when there are planned activities or accidental releases of pollutants. In addition, permit holders usually must pay permit fees.

Form: Dealing with the EPA

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Dealing with the EPA

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