Public Wastewater System Classification and Operator Licensure in Idaho
DEQ, the Idaho Bureau of Occupational Licenses (IBOL), and public wastewater system owners have different and distinct responsibilities regarding wastewater system classification and operator licensing.
- DEQ determines system classifications and ensures that all wastewater systems that generate, collect, treat, or dispose of 2,500 gallons or more of wastewater per day are supervised by an appropriately licensed responsible charge operator and licensed operating personnel.
- IBOL is an umbrella agency that contracts with the state’s professional and occupational licensing boards to ensure personnel are appropriately trained and licensed. For wastewater, IBOL contracts with the Idaho Board of Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals for these services. The board establishes requirements for operator licenses, determines education and continuing education requirements, sets fees, reviews applications, and issues licenses.
- System owners are responsible for reporting to DEQ on the current classification status every 5 years (board and IBOL requirements differ; see Classification Requirements). The system owner is responsible for ensuring that the responsible charge operator and substitute responsible charge operator have the appropriate level of licensing that is equal to or greater than the system's classification.
Classification Requirements
All public wastewater systems in Idaho that generate, collect, treat, or dispose of 2,500 gallons or more of wastewater per day must be classified based on indicators of potential health risk including the system's complexity, volume, and variability in raw waste. Learn more about system classification requirements and access a worksheet for calculating system classification.
Supervision Requirements
Owners of all public wastewater systems in Idaho that generate, collect, treat, or dispose of 2,500 gallons or more of wastewater per day are required to have a responsible charge operator and substitute responsible charge operator licensed at a type and class equal to or greater than the system's classification. Learn how to meet the licensed operator requirement and access a database of contract operators for hire.
Operator Resources
Interested in becoming a licensed wastewater operator? Access links to the IBOL website to learn more about operator training requirements, licensing requirements and fees, and to apply for an operator license. DEQ also offers wastewater operator certification trainings. Learn more about upcoming classes, locations, and registration details.