Who needs a NPDES Permit?

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Anyone discharging, or proposing to discharge, waste or wastewater into the surface waters of the State is required by law to obtain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The NPDES program is intended to control direct discharge into the surface waters of the State by imposing effluent limits and other conditions necessary to meet State and federal requirements.

The NPDES program regulates pollutants discharged directly into waterways from wastewater sources. Indirect dischargers (those who discharge to a municipal treatment facility via a sanitary sewer) are not required to have an NPDES permit. Discharge to a storm sewer does not go to a municipal treatment facility, and is considered a direct discharge. Discharge to a municipal treatment facility may require a permit from the municipality under the Industrial Pretreatment Program.

Information obtained from http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,1607,7-135-3313_3682_3713-10200--,00.html

Please visit the DEQ Website for information on how to apply for a permit and additional information.

Also visit Genesee County's webpage at www.cleargeneseewater.org  for information on clear water in the community.