[§342E-4]  Civil penalties.  (a)  Any person who violates any rule adopted under this chapter shall be fined not more than $10,000 for each separate offense.  Each day of each violation shall constitute a separate offense.  Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this section shall be considered a civil action.

     (b)  Any person who denies, obstructs, or hampers the entrance to and inspection by any duly authorized officer or employee of the department of any building, place, or vehicle shall be fined not more than $5,000 for each day of such a denial, obstruction, or hampering.  Any action taken to impose or collect the penalty provided for in this section shall be considered a civil action.

     (c)  Any fine or penalty collected shall be placed in the environmental response revolving fund pursuant to [section] 128D-2. [L 1993, c 345, pt of §2]