Who is responsible for ensuring that only authorized storm water is being discharged?

The permittee holds the primary responsibility for ensuring that only authorized storm water is being discharged from a facility. This responsibility arises from the permitting process, wherein the permittee is required by law to comply with specific regulations and guidelines set forth in the stormwater discharge permit. This includes the implementation of best management practices (BMPs), monitoring and reporting requirements, and maintaining proper documentation to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

The permittee is ultimately accountable for any unauthorized discharges that may occur, as they have the authority to manage and control the stormwater practices at their site. Ensuring adherence to the permit conditions helps protect water quality and minimizes the impact on the environment. Meanwhile, personnel such as inspectors and facility managers play important supportive roles but do not have the same degree of legal responsibility for compliance as the permittee. Regulatory agencies oversee and enforce the regulations but it is the permittee who must ensure that their activities align with the standards laid out in their permits.