Environmental Violations

Are you concerned about an environmental situation within your community but don't know where to go for answers? Here is a list of numbers to call to report any type of activity you suspect may not be in compliance with federal environmental regulations.

Information is also provided on the difference between environmental violations and environmental emergencies.
What types of activities might be considered environmental violations?

An environmental violation occurs when an activity or an existing condition does not comply with an environmental law or regulation. Environmental violations can include (but are not limited to).

Smoke or other emissions from local industrial facilities;Tampering with emission control or air conditioning systems in automobiles; Improper treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous wastes;
 
Exceedances of pollutant limits at publicly-owned wastewater treatment plants; Unpermitted dredging or filling of waters and wetlands; Any unpermitted industrial activity;Late night dumping or any criminal activity including falsifying reports or other documents.
 
What is the difference between environmental violations and environmental emergencies?

An environmental violation is a situation which does not comply with an existing environmental law or regulation. An environmental emergency is a sudden threat to the public health, or the well-being of the environment, arising from the release or potential release of oil, radioactive materials, or hazardous chemicals into the air, land, or water. 

Oil and chemical spillsRadiological and biological discharges Accidents causing releases of pollutants.