What is NPDES?

The NPDES permit program addresses water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge pollutants to waters of the United States.

Created in 1972 by the Clean Water Act, the NPDES permit program is authorized to state governments by EPA to perform many permitting, administrative, and enforcement aspects of the program.

Releases from a Point Source to Groundwater

• On December 10, 2020, EPA published a Federal Register notice requesting public comment on draft guidance that clarifies how the Supreme Court’s County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund decision should be applied under the NPDES permit program. EPA is accepting comment on the draft guidance for 30 days following this date.
• View more information about the Federal Register notice and the draft guidance document

Keys to Permitting Success

• Read Boeing's story
• Watch the video