Stormwater compliance can be difficult to achieve if you are not familiar with the regulations and enforcement agencies. In order to be in compliance, we have to know and apply all of the “rules”. In Las Vegas, we must comply with local, state, and federal regulations and know each of their roles in enforcing the regulations.
The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the ultimate governing body. They have set the foundation of the regulations through the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Through these programs the EPA has created the baseline regulations spelled out in the General Construction Permit (GCP) that all of us must follow. If we fail to comply with EPA regulations, we can face penalties up to $32,500 per incident, per day. This can add up to millions, as was seen in the Wal-Mart case in 2004, which resulted in a $3.1 million fine.
The next level that we must comply with is the State of Nevada. They are delegated by the EPA to help enforce the EPA’s regulations. Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) is the agency responsible for this. They have established their own rules that exceed the federal EPA’s regulations.
In addition to the Federal EPA and State EPA, the final level that we must comply with is the local MS4. As with the NDEP, they have adopted their own ordinances that exceed the state and federal EPA. Each entity has its own ordinances that must also be followed.
Eros Environmental is extremely knowledgeable with all levels of regulations and enforcement, and can assist you in meeting these regulations.
