Commercial and industrial facilities operating under NJPDES permits should prepare for inspections by maintaining accurate records, following permit requirements, and routinely evaluating their environmental compliance programs.

What are common NJPDES inspection findings?

Frequently identified issues include outdated Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs), incomplete inspection logs, inadequate employee training, poor housekeeping, deficient best management practices, improper recordkeeping, missed monitoring requirements, and failure to implement corrective actions.

How can businesses prevent these issues?

Perform routine internal audits, keep compliance documentation current, train employees, inspect stormwater controls regularly, promptly correct deficiencies, and periodically review permit obligations with environmental consultants and legal counsel.

Why is proactive compliance important?

A proactive compliance program helps reduce the likelihood of violations, minimizes operational disruptions, supports successful inspections, and demonstrates a commitment to ongoing environmental compliance.

Common misconceptions

Passing one inspection does not guarantee future compliance. NJPDES permits generally require continuous monitoring, maintenance, inspections, documentation, and periodic updates.

Key Takeaways

  • Maintain current SWPPPs and permit documentation.
  • Conduct routine internal inspections.
  • Keep complete monitoring and maintenance records.
  • Correct deficiencies promptly.
  • Review compliance programs regularly with legal and technical professionals.

When should you contact an attorney?

Consult an environmental attorney when responding to NJDEP inspection findings, notices of violation, permit interpretation questions, compliance audits, or potential enforcement actions.

Contact The Law Office of Alan S. Ashkinaze

The Law Office of Alan S. Ashkinaze advises commercial and industrial businesses throughout New Jersey on NJPDES permitting, stormwater compliance, regulatory inspections, environmental enforcement, and compliance program development.