(a) A program fee is a sum of money that a person described in section 481.2 of this Part must pay the department each year under the provisions of article 72 of the ECL. The program fee is based on certain criteria set forth in Parts 480 through 486 of this Title measured on an annual basis. Liability for program fees commences on and after April 1, 1983. For operating permit program fees, liability commences on and after January 1, 1994.

(b) There are six kinds of program fees, more fully described in paragraphs (1) through (6) of this subdivision:

(c) Program fees are separate from and independent of the uniform procedures application fees set forth in Part 621 of this Title, or fees charged for preparing or reviewing an environmental impact statement provided by Part 617 of this Title or assessments charged pursuant to ECL 27-0923.