Transition program for existing facilities

Any person who owns or operates a facility required to have any permit under this article, which facility was in existence on July 9, 1981, shall be treated as having been issued such permit until such time as final administrative disposition is made with respect to an application for such permit: Provided, That on said date such facility is operating and continues to operate in compliance with the interim status requirement of the federal environmental protection agency established pursuant to section 3005 of the federal Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended, if applicable, and in such a manner as will not cause or create a substantial risk of a health hazard or public nuisance or a significant adverse effect upon the environment: Provided, however, That the owner or operator of such facility shall make a timely and complete application for such permit in accordance with rules promulgated pursuant to this article specifying procedures and requirements for obtaining such permit.