DEQ Environmental Permits and Licensing 2

Question 1

What is 'anti-degradation' policy in the context of water quality permitting?

Accepted Answer

A policy protecting existing water quality and preventing it from being lowered below existing use designations

Answer

A policy requiring all dischargers to use zero-discharge technology

Answer

A rule prohibiting the issuance of new NPDES permits in any watershed

Answer

A requirement that all permits include provisions for wetland restoration

Question 2

When a permitted facility wants to make a significant change to its operations, what permit action is typically required?

Accepted Answer

The facility must apply for a permit modification to incorporate the operational change

Answer

The facility must voluntarily cease operations until a new permit is issued

Answer

The facility simply notifies the DEQ and may proceed with changes immediately

Answer

The facility must obtain a new permit from the beginning as if it were a new facility

Question 3

What does 'best available technology economically achievable' (BAT) mean in NPDES permitting?

Accepted Answer

The most stringent effluent limitation level achievable by the best-performing facilities in an industry, considering cost

Answer

The minimum pollution control required to comply with state water quality standards

Answer

A technology standard that applies only to publicly owned treatment works (POTWs)

Answer

A federal standard that requires zero discharge of all pollutants

Question 4

What is a RCRA Part B permit and who must obtain one?

Accepted Answer

A permit required for facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste for extended periods

Answer

A permit required for all generators of hazardous waste, including very small quantity generators

Answer

A permit required for hazardous waste transporters operating across state lines

Answer

A permit issued to facilities that recycle hazardous materials for beneficial reuse

Question 5

What is the public notice and comment process in DEQ permitting designed to accomplish?

Accepted Answer

To give affected citizens and stakeholders an opportunity to provide input before a permit is issued

Answer

To allow the DEQ to collect permit application fees from the public

Answer

To notify the applicant that their permit has been approved

Answer

To satisfy a requirement that all permits be published in federal and state registers before taking effect

Question 6

What is 'effluent limitation' in the context of an NPDES permit?

Accepted Answer

Specific numeric or narrative restrictions on the concentration or mass of pollutants a facility may discharge

Answer

The maximum volume of water a facility may withdraw from a river or lake

Answer

The minimum required dilution ratio between effluent and receiving water

Answer

The maximum number of discharge events allowed per calendar year