What compliance efforts is the Environmental Division currently responsible for?

The El Paso County Environmental Division monitors compliance with environmental regulations, responds to environmental concerns, and supports efforts that promote a safe and healthy environment for the community.

There are four main areas under environmental compliance for El Paso County:

  • Hazardous Waste Analysis and Disposal
  • Fuel Storage and Regulatory Compliance
  • Pre-Acquisition Property Site Assessments
  • Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures

Hazardous Waste Analysis and Disposal

The Environmental Division ensures that County-generated hazardous wastes are properly classified, stored, transported, and disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Fuel Storage and Regulatory Compliance

The Environmental Division provides state and federal regulatory compliance support for the County-owned regulated petroleum bulk storage facilities. This includes assistance with installation, registration, construction, maintenance, removal, and closure.

Pre-Acquisition Property Site Assessments

The Environmental Division follows the standards set forth in the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) E1527-05 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) Process to satisfy the statutory requirements for conducting all appropriate inquiries on properties that may be acquired by the County. The ESA is conducted to obtain protection from potential liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act as an innocent landowner, a contiguous property owner, or a bona fide prospective purchaser.

Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures

The Environmental Division writes and implements the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plans at all applicable County-owned facilities. Plans detail storage capabilities and measures in place to prevent, control, and respond to oil spills in order to keep any material from reaching navigable water of the United States. The Environmental Division conducts annual employee training on spill prevention, response, containment, and cleanup procedures.