(A) Whenever the county has cause to believe that there exists, or potentially exists, in or upon any premises any condition which constitutes a violation of this chapter, the county or its agent shall have the right to enter the premises at any reasonable time to determine if the discharger is complying with all requirements of this chapter. The county or its agent shall be permitted to enter and inspect facilities subject to regulation under this chapter as often as may be necessary to determine compliance with this chapter. If the facility has security measures in force that require proper identification and clearance before entry into its premises, the person in control of the premises shall make the necessary arrangements to allow access to representatives of the authorized enforcement agency. In the event that the owner or occupant refuses entry after a request to enter has been made, the county is hereby empowered to seek assistance from a court of competent jurisdiction in obtaining the entry. If a discharge is observed which represents an immediate hazard to public health or safety, or aquatic life, the county, a department of law enforcement, a department of fire and rescue services, and any other agent of the county, may enter any property or structure, except a dwelling, as necessary to prevent or stop the hazard.
(B) The county shall have the right to set up on the property of any discharger to the municipal separate storm sewer system the devices that are necessary to conduct an investigation of the discharges. The investigation may include, but is not limited to, the following: sampling of any discharge and/or process waters, the taking of photographs, interviewing staff on alleged violations and access to any and all facilities or areas within the premises that may have any effect on the discharge.
(Ord. 2008-08, passed 5-5-2008)