Industrial waste compliance is not just about avoiding penalties. It's about protecting the environment, maintaining operational efficiency, and preserving your company’s reputation. However, every state does have its own unique set of environmental regulations, and non-compliance can lead to costly fines, legal action, and operational downtime. Make sure you are always aware of your state and local regulations, and are prepared for questions or inspections that might pop up.
Below is a state-by-state checklist of some common compliance pitfalls along with links to important regulatory resources. Use these as a quick reference to keep your facility audit ready all year long.
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ALABAMA | ARKANSAS | COLORADO | INDIANA | KENTUCKY | MARYLAND | MICHIGAN | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | OKLAHOMA | OHIO | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WEST VIRGINIA
ADEM citations often involve improper waste disposal, air emissions reporting errors, and inadequate secondary containment. Keeping equipment maintained and waste records updated is essential for avoiding fines.
Resources: ADEM Regulations & Laws | ADEM Waste Remediation Resources
Arkansas DEQ enforces both federal RCRA standards and additional state-specific provisions under Regulation 23. Common fines stem from missing notifications, improper permitting, and failures in cradle-to-grave waste tracking.
Resources: Arkansas DEQ Hazardous Waste Program Overview | Arkansas Regulation 23 State-Specific Requirements
Colorado’s CDPHE enforces unique state-level hazardous waste rules, including stricter generator status thresholds. Common violations include failure to meet accumulation time limits and improper universal waste handling. Frequent self-inspections reduce risks.
Resources: CDPHE Hazardous Waste Regulations
Indiana’s IDEM targets unauthorized discharges and unpermitted waste storage. Many violations occur when waste classification is incorrect or manifests are incomplete. Routine facility inspections and employee training help ensure compliance.
Resources: IDEM Waste Management Overview | IDEM Hazardous Waste Generators Requirements
The Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection closely monitors industrial waste generators for improper disposal and air quality violations. Frequent citations include incomplete waste profiles and inadequate secondary containment. Staying current with recordkeeping requirements is key.
Resources: Kentucky EEC – Division of Waste Management overview | Kentucky DWM – Hazardous Waste Generation Information
Maryland’s MDE has a strong focus on stormwater management, air permits, and hazardous waste storage compliance. Violations often come from missed inspection logs or unapproved disposal methods. Consistent documentation can help prevent enforcement actions.
Resources: MDE Hazardous Waste Regulations | MDE Wastewater Permits
Michigan EGLE oversees hazardous and liquid industrial by-products under Part 111 of Act 451, with rigorous requirements for licensing, manifest use, and reporting. Common penalties involve improper waste determination, failure to notify, licensed operation lapses, and reporting errors.
Resources: Michigan EGLE Hazardous Waste Overview Michigan | Michigan Part 111 Forms and License Application Info
The MPCA enforces rigorous industrial waste and stormwater regulations. Frequent violations include improper hazardous waste labeling, expired training, and unreported releases. Comprehensive compliance calendars are an effective preventive tool.
Resources: MPCA Hazardous Waste Reporting | MPCA Waste Identification & Management
Missouri DNR enforces strict hazardous waste container labeling and storage time limits. Fines often result from incomplete manifests and improper waste segregation. Clear internal procedures can prevent compliance gaps.
Resources: Missouri DNR Compliance and Assistance | Generator Registration Info
Ohio EPA enforces strict rules for hazardous waste storage, wastewater discharge, and stormwater runoff from industrial sites. Common fines often stem from improper manifest documentation, expired permits, or unreported spills. Regular audits and waste tracking can help avoid costly penalties.
Resources: Ohio EPA – Hazardous Waste Generator Requirements | Ohio EPA – Hazardous Waste Permits
The Oklahoma DEQ frequently cites facilities for late or missing annual hazardous waste reports, as well as violations of wastewater pretreatment standards. Keeping reporting calendars and updating waste profiles can help avoid issues.
Resources: Oklahoma DEQ Hazardous Waste Forms and Checklists | Small Quantity Generator FAQ
Tennessee’s TDEC monitors industrial sites for stormwater discharge violations and hazardous waste mismanagement. Missing or incomplete SWPPPs and outdated training records are frequent fine triggers. Regular program updates help maintain compliance.
Resources: TDEC Hazardous Waste Permit Requirements | TDEC Notification and Forms
TCEQ regulations carry significant penalties for unpermitted discharges, improper waste storage, and hazardous material labeling errors. Failure to maintain stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) is a common cause of fines. Annual compliance reviews are critical in this high-enforcement state.
Resources: TCEQ Industrial and Hazardous Waste Compliance Resources | TCEQ Reporting Requirements
Virginia DEQ fines often result from unauthorized wastewater discharges and hazardous waste misclassification. Facilities should pay close attention to permit renewal dates and manifest accuracy. Internal audits are highly recommended.
Resources: Virginia DEQ Wastewater | Virginia Stormwater - Construction
WVDEP closely monitors hazardous waste handling and air permit compliance. Violations commonly arise from incomplete records and improper waste segregation. Regular staff training can keep operations in line with regulations.
Resources: WVDEP Division of Water and Waste Management | West Virginia Environmental Enforcement
Compliance is an ongoing process that requires consistent attention to detail. By understanding the most common violations in your state and building proactive compliance routines, you can reduce the risk of costly fines and operational disruptions. Valicor Environmental Services works with industrial clients nationwide to manage waste safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with state and federal regulations. Our team can help you review your current practices, identify potential risks, and implement reliable solutions that keep your operations running smoothly.