How does the STIP process work?
Within a short time after a spill has occurred, a PRP will receive a STIP Guidance Package, including a “Letter of Responsibility,” a Stipulation Agreement, and discharge limits, from the DEC Regional Director. The letter informs the PRP that, the DEC believes that the PRP is responsible for a spill. The PRP is asked to sign the STIP, agreeing to be responsible for the cleanup. Work can and usually will begin prior to the STIP being signed. Any milestone already completed will be identified in the schedule. The PRP can discuss a proposed schedule and include the schedule with the signed STIP. As stated above, the schedule need not be totally complete at this time. As more information becomes available, amendments to the schedule can be made with the approval of the Regional Spill Engineer. A copy of the STIP, signed by the PRP and the Regional Director, will be returned to the PRP.
