Civil Division
Natural Resources Section

The Natural Resources Section works with key laws such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation & Liability Act (CERCLA), the Clean Water Act (CWA), the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the Aquifer Protection Permit Program (APP), the Arizona Superfund Program (WQARF), the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the Emergency Planning & Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), Underground Storage Tank Regulations, and the Clean Air Act (CAA).

A major task for the Natural Resources Section is representing the City's interests in the Gila River General Stream Adjudication, which is litigation seeking resolution of claims to the waters of the Gila River.

The Natural Resources Section provides advice regarding administrative law and civil matters to the Public Works Department, Water Services Department, Phoenix Convention Center and Office of Environmental Programs. This includes contract preparation and review.

Protecting the City from environmental liability exposure in all matter of real estate and development transactions is a key job for employees of the Natural Resources Section.  We provide counsel and advice to the Real Estate Section of the Finance Department, Aviation Department, Street Transportation Department, Neighborhood Services Department, and Development Services Department in this area.

The Natural Resources Section also provides legal advice and representation regarding the application and enforcement of the City's Cable Television License and Telecommunications License ordinances, and use of the public right of way by telecommunications companies. Natural Resources employees represent the Information Technology Services Department, providing them with legal advice, contract negotiation, and representation.