(a) If the Regional Administrator comments on a permit application or draft general permit under § 233.50, the Director shall follow the procedures specified in that section in issuing the permit.

(b) If the Regional Administrator does not comment on a permit application or draft general permit, the Director shall make a final permit decision after the close of the public comment period and shall notify the applicant.

(1) If the decision is to issue a permit, the permit becomes effective when it is signed by the Director and the applicant.

(2) If the decision is to deny the permit, the Director will notify the applicant in writing of the reason(s) for denial.