Compliance with Cleanup Agreements and Orders

Cleanup Enforcement Quick Resources Cleanup Compliance Policy & Guidance Documents Cases and Settlements

EPA oversees the settlement agreements and orders issued under its various cleanup authorities to ensure that the parties that entered into the agreements or that received an order, comply with their requirements. For example, if a party agrees to do certain cleanup activities, EPA will monitor that party’s performance to be sure the cleanup activities are done timely and appropriately.

If a party is not complying with its obligations, then EPA decides what sort of action should be taken to bring the party into compliance. Options typically range from issuing a warning letter, to asking the Department of Justice to file a civil complaint asking for injunctive relief (have the court order the party to meet its obligations) and/or penalties for non-compliance.

EPA's Office of Superfund Remediation Technology Innovation (OSRTI) and the Federal Facilities Restoration and Reuse Office (FFRRO) develop technical guidance and other related documents that are used to address and select cleanup solutions at contaminated sites, both private and federal facilities. These remedy and removal decision technical documents provide assistance in complying with cleanup requirements.