(a) Subject to subsection (b) of Code Section 12-5-179 it shall be unlawful for any person to own or operate a public water system without first having secured a permit for such operation from the director.

(b) It shall be unlawful for an owner or operator of a public water system to commit or cause the commission of the following acts:

(1) Failure to comply with the requirements of Code Section 12-5-184 or dissemination of any false or misleading information with respect to notices required pursuant to Code Section 12-5-184 or with respect to remedial actions being undertaken to achieve compliance with the Georgia primary drinking water regulations;

(2) Failure to comply with regulations promulgated pursuant to this part or with conditions for variances or exemptions authorized under Code Section 12-5-178.