Ventura Municipal Code Art. 5 Inspections – Enforcement

Authorized inspectors may enter public or private property to investigate the source or potential source of a discharge to the storm drain system or watercourses located within the city at all reasonable times to inspect the same and to inspect and copy records related to compliance with this chapter. (Ord. No. 99-1, § 2, 1-11-99)

An authorized inspector may inspect any vehicle, truck, trailer, tank truck or other mobile equipment as is necessary to determine compliance with this chapter. (Ord. No. 99-1, § 2, 1-11-99)

The owner or person in charge of day-to-day operations of the property subject to inspection will provide copies of test results to the city and, on submission of a written request to the director, be entitled to copy test results conducted by the authorized inspector. (Ord. No. 99-1, § 2, 1-11-99)

Authorized inspectors may use all legal means, and take all legal remedies, to ensure compliance with, and enforce, this code. Such remedies include, without limitation, notices of violation, administrative citations, nuisance abatement and/or infraction citations as provided by this code. The city may recover its enforcement costs as provided by this code and city council resolution. (Ord. No. 99-1, § 2, 1-11-99)

Any person acting in violation of this chapter may also violate the federal Clean Water Act, the State Porter-Cologne Act, and other laws subjecting such person to sanctions including civil liability. Accordingly, in addition to any other remedy, the city is authorized to file a citizen suit pursuant to federal Clean Water Act Section 505(a), seeking penalties, damages, and orders compelling compliance, and other appropriate relief. The city may notify EPA, the regional board, or any other appropriate state or local agency of any alleged violation of this chapter. (Ord. No. 99-1, § 2, 1-11-99)