Well-maintained trucks and yard equipment stored on a lot would not automatically be considered sources of pollution, according to EPA's proposal. Steve Hensley, environmental specialist for ATA, said certification could reduce compliance costs substantially. Storm water permits are required under the federal government's Clean Water Act. The act, designed to protect the nation's waters from pollution, followed a series of environmental disasters in the late 1960's and 1970's. Storm water regulations have two phases.
Industrial activity covers maintenance shops and equipment cleaning operations.
It is open for public comment and will be finalized March 1, 1999. Facilities must apply for permits by Aug. 1, 2001. The original intent of Phase II was to regulate those facilities and areas not regulated under Phase I. Phase II also lets municipalities determine their own compliance methods. Under certification, companies could opt out of both phases. Bob Morone, assistant director of environmental affairs for Miller Transport, a tank truck company in Jackson, Miss., said the most difficult aspect is the runoff analysis.