The NPDES program applies only to discharges into surface waters, such as rivers and lakes. Facilities that discharge solely to groundwater are regulated under other state or federal programs, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) or state groundwater protection laws.
The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating pollutant discharges into the waters of the United States. It requires facilities to obtain NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permits to legally discharge treated wastewater.
The EPA is the federal agency responsible for enforcing environmental laws, including wastewater regulations under the Clean Water Act. State environmental agencies may also have delegated authority to implement these programs.
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit establishes pollutant-specific discharge limits, monitoring, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance with the Clean Water Act.
Effluent limitations are restrictions imposed under the NPDES permit system. They specify the maximum levels of specific pollutants that can be legally discharged into surface waters to protect public health and the environment.
