(a) An owner or operator of a facility may not circumvent this Part by causing or allowing a pattern of ownership or development, including the phasing, staging, delaying, or engaging in incremental construction at a facility which, except for the pattern of ownership or development, would otherwise require a permit.

(b) The sale or other transfer of a facility to a new owner or operator does not relieve the new owner or operator from the requirement to obtain a permit and operate the facility in conformance with the requirements of this Part.