H2: Indiana Spill Rule (327 IAC 2-6.1): Reporting, Containment, and Response
Indiana’s “Spill Rule” (327 IAC 2-6.1) sets the baseline requirements for spill reporting, containment, and response when regulated substances are released in a way that may impact the environment.
H3: Who is responsible?
In general, the owner/operator of a facility or the operator of a mode of transportation associated with a spill is responsible for:
- taking prompt action to contain and respond, and
- making required notifications to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM).
H3: Reporting timeline (key requirement)
For reportable spills, the rule requires notification to IDEM as soon as possible, but within two (2) hours of discovery.
H3: IDEM 24-Hour Emergency Spill Line
To report an environmental emergency or spill in Indiana, IDEM maintains a 24/7 spill line:
- (888) 233-7745 (toll free)
- (317) 233-7745
H3: What should be reported?
IDEM’s Emergency Response program emphasizes that timely reporting is important, and that all spills require a response, regardless of whether they meet a specific “reportable” threshold—when in doubt, call.
H3: Practical guidance for responsible parties
If you are the responsible party (or acting on their behalf), it is best practice to:
- Notify promptly (do not wait to “figure out fault”)
- Contain the release to prevent migration (soil, storm drains, surface water)
- Document actions taken (photos, times, materials recovered, disposal paperwork)
- Maintain records for insurance/regulatory review
Disclaimer: This content is general information and not legal advice. Always follow IDEM direction and applicable federal/local reporting requirements.
IDEM Emergency Response (Spill Reporting): https://www.in.gov/idem/cleanups/investigation-and-cleanup-programs/emergency-response/
Indiana Spill Rule (327 IAC 2-6.1) text (Cornell LII): https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/indiana/title-327/article-2/rule-327-IAC-2-6.1
IDEM Contact Page (includes spill line): https://www.in.gov/idem/contact/