When do companies have to notify the public or nearby property owners?
Several permits that IDEM issues require applicants to notify adjacent property owners and occupants. This is often done by letters sent through the U.S. Postal Service. Often, these notifications must be completed within a specific amount of time following the submission of an application. In addition to notifying adjacent property owners, some permits require a public notice component, which is usually satisfied through a legal notice in a local newspaper. Some notices are provided by the company, and some are issued by IDEM. These printed public notices often signal the beginning of a public comment period where interested parties can offer their opinions on a proposed action. Certain water-based utilities are obligated to send notices to local residents. Public drinking water systems must provide a yearly summary of water quality to consumers. Any more serious water quality violations must be reported to consumers within specific time frames. The more potential affect to human heal
