EPA proposes NPDES application and program updates rule

Washington, D.C. — On May 18, EPA proposed revisions to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulations that would make specific targeted changes to the existing regulations and would not reopen them for other specific or comprehensive revision. EPA is seeking comment on proposed changes that include eliminating regulatory and application form inconsistencies; improving permit documentation, transparency and oversight; clarifying existing regulations; and deleting outdated provisions.

EPA is also asking for public comment on potential ways to enhance public notice and participation in the permitting process.

With these proposed revisions and requests for public comment, EPA aims to clarify who is regulated; more clearly identify applicable requirements for compliance; and improve transparency by providing permitting authorities and the public with improved information about NPDES permitted dischargers.

The public comment period for the proposed NPDES Updates Rule will be open for 60 days, until July 18, 2016.  For more information and to view the Federal Register notice, visit https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-application-and-program-updates.