What legal steps should I take to ensure compliance with Ohio's environmental laws when starting a new business?

To comply with Ohio's environmental laws when starting a new business, there are several legal steps you should take:

1. Obtain necessary permits: The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) requires businesses that engage in activities that may impact the environment to obtain various permits. The type of permit required depends on the nature of the business and its activities. To determine which permits you need, you should contact your local OEPA district office or consult with an environmental attorney.
2. Comply with applicable regulations: Ohio has a variety of environmental regulations that businesses must follow. These regulations cover a broad range of issues, such as air and water quality, hazardous waste management, and pollution prevention. The OEPA provides guidance documents that explain these regulations in more detail. You should consult these documents and ensure that your business operations are in compliance.
3. Develop an environmental compliance plan: To ensure ongoing compliance, it is important to create a plan that outlines all relevant environmental regulations and how your business will comply with them. This plan should include processes for monitoring, reporting, and remediation if non-compliance is identified.
4. Train employees: Your employees play a critical role in ensuring your business complies with environmental laws. It is important to provide training to all employees on relevant environmental regulations and the importance of complying with them. This training should be updated periodically to reflect changes in regulations and business operations.
5. Retain records: Ohio requires businesses to retain certain records related to their environmental compliance efforts. These records include permits, inspection reports, training documentation, and any environmental impact assessments. Retaining these records is important in case of audits or legal actions by the OEPA.

Limitations or exceptions:

Some industries may be subject to more stringent environmental regulations, and therefore, additional or more specialized permits may be required. Additionally, certain areas in Ohio may have unique environmental concerns, such as wetlands, that require specific permits or compliance plans. It is important to consult with an environmental attorney to determine any additional requirements.

Further action:

If you have any questions about Ohio's environmental laws or your compliance obligations, you should consult with an experienced environmental attorney. They can help you navigate the complex regulatory landscape and ensure that your business is in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.