SB 949 Summary

• Requires owners of riparian structures (docks, wharfs, piers, jetties, seawalls) to submit inspection reports conducted by licensed professional engineers to the Department of Environmental Quality and local municipalities.

• Establishes inspection schedules requiring high-risk riparian structures be inspected at least once every 3 years and commercial/industrial riparian structures be inspected at least once every 5 years, beginning January 1, 2021.

• Mandates inspection reports evaluate structural integrity, identify deficiencies that could cause failure or pollution, and recommend necessary maintenance, repairs, and modifications to eliminate deficiencies.

• Authorizes the Department to conduct inspections at owner expense if required reports are not submitted, and empowers the Attorney General to seek civil action with fines of $2,500 to $5,000 per day of violation.

• Allows the Department to issue compliance orders and promulgate rules to implement and enforce the inspection requirements.