Water Pollution Abatement Plan

What is a water pollution abatement plan (WPAP)?

A WPAP is a detailed plan that outlines best management practices that will be implemented in order to protect water quality when a regulated activity 

Who is required to prepare and submit a WPAP?

A water pollution abatement plan is required for any regulated activity proposed in the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone. This includes any construction-related activity, such as:

•  the construction of buildings, utility stations, roads, highways, railroads
•  clearing, excavation, or any other activities that alter or disturb the topographic, geologic, or existing recharge characteristics of a site
•  any other activities with a potential for contaminating the Edwards Aquifer and hydrologically connected surface streams

When should a WPAP be submitted to the TCEQ?

A WPAP must go through the application submission and review process and be approved prior to the commencement of construction or other regulated activities.

How much is the fee?

The fee is based on the acreage of the entire area included within the legal boundaries of the property described in the application and the type of development (one single-family dwelling; multiple single-family residential or parks; and non-residential). The minimum fee is $650; the maximum, $10,000. For additional information on fees, view the Application Fee Form TCEQ-0574 (PDF, Word), which includes a complete fee schedule.

How do I know what forms to complete?

Use the forms listed below to prepare your water pollution abatement plan application.

If you are installing an organized sewage collection system, an underground storage tank, or an aboveground storage tank, review the Edwards Aquifer Protection Plan - Required Forms Flowchart to determine if additional forms are required.

Are there any tips for completing this type of plan?

• Do not leave any questions unanswered. If a question does not apply to your site, enter “N/A” in the blank and briefly explain why the question does not apply.

Application Cover Page

• Form TCEQ-20705 (PDF, Word)

General Information

• Form TCEQ-0587 (PDF, Word)

Geologic Assessment

• Form TCEQ-0585 (PDF, Word)
• Instructions to Geologists TCEQ-0585-Instructions (PDF, Word)
• Geologic Assessment Table TCEQ-0585-Table (PDF, Excel)

Water Pollution Abatement Plan Application

• Form TCEQ-0584 (PDF, Word)
• Application Checklist TCEQ-0584-Checklist (PDF, Word)

Temporary Stormwater Section

• Form TCEQ-0602 (PDF, Word)

Permanent Stormwater Section

• Form TCEQ-0600 (PDF, Word)

Agent Authorization

• Form TCEQ-0599 (PDF, Word), if application submitted by agent

Application Fee

• Form TCEQ-0574 (PDF, Word)
• Check payable to the “Texas Commission on Environmental Quality”

Core Data Form

• Form TCEQ-10400 (PDF, Word)
• Instructions TCEQ-10400-Instructions (Word)

Who can I contact if I need help?

If you are located in Williamson, Travis, or Hays County, call the TCEQ’s Austin Regional Office at 512-339-2929. For help in Comal, Bexar, Medina, Uvalde, or Kinney County, call TCEQ’s San Antonio Regional Office at 210-490-3096.