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Permit Compliance System Data Access
Data Systems
Currently, PCS data can be accessed through direct network or modem access with an Authorized User I.D. If you are a public user you must obtain a EPA mainframe User ID through NTIS. Information can also be obtained through the Freedom of Information Act(FOIA).
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
Public access users must obtain an EPA mainframe account, by contacting the National Technical Information Service (NTIS). NTIS will set up an account through which billing for services and computing resources will be processed. For more information, contact:
US Department of Commerce
National Technical Information Service (NTIS)
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161
Telephone: Sales Desk:Subscriptions 1-800-363-2068 or 703-605-6060
(8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Eastern, Monday through Friday)
Email: helpdesk@ntis.gov
Info@ntis.gov
NTIS provides for a convenient NTIS Deposit Account. To open an account, fill out the Deposit Account Application available by contacting 1 (800)363-2068 or (703) 605-6060. When your NTIS Deposit Account is established, NTIS will send you your account number with instructions on how to logon to EPA's mainframe computer. A statement will be sent to you each month that there is activity in your account.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Another mechanism that can be utilized by the public to request information from EPA is the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. A FOIA is a written request for records held or believed to be held by EPA where a record is defined as any existing document, memorandum, report, photograph, sound or magnetic recording, computer tape, drawing, or other medium in which information has been preserved. FOIAs are usually utilized when there are not other direct methods, such as hotlines or clearinghouses, available through which the public can request the information. EPA will release the requested information unless it falls under one of the following nine exemptions:
- Matters of national defense or foreign policy.
- Internal Agency rules.
- Information exempted by other statutes.
- Trade secrets, commercial, or financial information (confidential business information).
- Privileged inter- or intra-Agency memoranda.
- Personal Privacy
- Records or information compiled for law enforcement purposes.
- Records of financial institutions.
- Geographical or geophysical information and data concerning wells.
FOIA authorizes EPA to charge requesters the direct cost for any searching, reviewing, and duplication required to respond to the request if these costs exceed $14.00. To submit a FOIA request to EPA, a written letter, detailing subject matter of interest, should be submitted to:
FOIA Office
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Ave. (MC 2822T)
Washington, D.C. 20460.202 566-1667
E-Mail: foia.hq@epamail.epa.gov