Environmental permitting programs regulate activities deemed to have potentially harmful effects on the physical environment in which we live.
For example, federal and state statutes require permits for:
Some permitting programs are more indirect in operation than others, such as regulating discharges to the air from automobile exhaust systems by imposing periodic car inspection standards.
Permitting programs don't just focus on activities harmful to the environment. Some federal, state, and local programs focus on designated types of locales or specific geographic areas for heightened environmental protection. These designated areas sharply limit the kinds of activities which may occur within their boundaries.
For example, federal and state programs for protection of "wetlands" define what constitutes "wetlands" and require landowners or developers of properties to identify "wetlands" areas on their property. Any area deemed a wetland is then generally subject to more stringent permitting requirements. In states with ocean frontage, similar protections can be extended to the shoreline areas, as defined in the particular law or regulations.
Closely associated with the special protection for designated environmental resource areas are open space protection programs. The National Park system and similar state and local park systems are included in this program. Generally speaking, all forms of development are sharply restricted in such areas.
| Environmental Message Board for more help |
a statutory lien on property for taxes due giving the taxing authority a security interest in the property
More Legal News