Mono County CUPA

The Mono County CUPA (Certified Unified Program Agency) is the local agency responsible for enforcing hazardous materials and hazardous waste regulations in Mono County. Its main goal is to protect public health and the environment by ensuring businesses follow state laws.

What is a CUPA?

A Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) is a city or county agency trained and approved by CalEPA to oversee hazardous materials and hazardous waste programs. In simple terms, CUPAs are the local “watchdogs” that make sure dangerous chemicals are handled safely.

Why CUPAs Were Created

• Before the 1990s, more than 1,100 agencies regulated hazardous materials in California—creating confusion and inconsistency.
• In 1993, Senate Bill 1082 created the Unified Program, consolidating oversight into local CUPAs.
• Today, CUPAs issue permits, inspect facilities, enforce rules, and take action when violations occur.

What Are Hazardous Materials?

Hazardous materials are substances that can harm people or the environment if mishandled. Examples include:

• Flammable liquids and solids
• Petroleum products (motor oil, gasoline, diesel)
• Acids and bases (pool chemicals, drain cleaners)
• Paints and inks
• Fertilizers

Businesses that handle hazardous materials in these amounts must file a Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP):

• 55 gallons of liquids
• 500 pounds of solids
• 200 cubic feet of compressed gases

Plans must be submitted within 60 days of starting operations or 30 days after major changes (California Health & Safety Code 25503.5 [2]).

Electronic Reporting (CERS)

All CUPA-regulated businesses must file information electronically using the California Environmental Reporting System (CERS) [3].

What You Must Submit

The Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP) usually includes at least 5 documents:

Additional documents may be required if you have underground storage tanks (USTs), large petroleum storage (1,320+ gallons), or are subject to the California Accidental Release Program.

Key Deadlines

• As of Jan 1, 2012: Paper submittals are no longer accepted.
• By Jan 1, 2013: All HMBPs must be submitted through CERS.
• By Jan 1, 2014: All UST data must also be submitted electronically.

Annual Renewal

Each business must renew its HMBP every 365 days through CERS. Simply review, update if needed, and resubmit electronically. Signed paper renewals are no longer accepted.

Helpful Tips for CERS

• Use your business/legal name in CERS if you have multiple facilities.
• If you manage more than one facility, enter the main business first, then add facilities to save time.
• Rename files clearly (e.g., “ABC Manufacturing – Contingency Plan.doc”) for easier access by first responders.
• The Site Map must be printed, completed, scanned, and uploaded (or substitute your own, as long as it includes required info).

Need Help?

If you have questions or need help with CERS submissions, contact:

Jill Kearney
Phone: (760) 924-1846
Email: jkearney@mono.ca.gov [6]