NC S552

Establishes a maximum cumulative civil penalty of $25,000 per land-disturbing project for first-time violators who abate continuing environmental damage within 180 days (instead of $5,000 per violation).

Authorizes the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission to make final decisions on requests for remission of civil penalties filed within 60 days of receiving a notice of assessment.

Requires notice of civil penalties to inform violators of their remission request option, the deadline to abate environmental damage, and the maximum penalty cap for first-time violators.

Mandates that first-time violators receiving a notice of violation be offered assistance in developing corrective measures, either through in-person delivery, referral to technical assistance programs, or provision of written guidance materials.

Effective upon enactment and applies to civil penalties assessed and notices of violation issued on or after the bill's passage.