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NPDES/MS4

NPDES/MS4

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.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) municipal stormwater program regulations were published in 1990. These regulations were implemented in two phases. In 1990, Phase I established requirements for stormwater discharges associated with 11 categories of industrial activity, and for large (population >250,000) and medium (population >100,000) municipal separate storm sewer systems (“MS4”). In Maryland, ten jurisdictions and the State Highway Administration (SHA) were required to apply for coverage under individual MS4 stormwater permits. 

In 1999, Phase II expanded the stormwater permitting program to smaller municipalities located in Census-defined urbanized areas as well as State and federal agencies. The Phase II program, which is described in 40 Code of Federal Regulations §122.34, relies on a general permit (vs. an individual). These permits require implementation of six minimum control measures:

  1. Public education and outreach
  2. Public involvement and participation
  3. Illicit discharge detection and elimination
  4. Construction site stormwater runoff control
  5. Post construction stormwater management
  6. Pollution prevention and good housekeeping

Regional Stormwater Management

Environmental Management

16232 Elliott Parkway
Williamsport, MD 21795

Phone: (240) 313-2600
Fax: (240) 313-2601

Office Hours:  Monday – Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm

TTY users may call any government office through the Maryland Relay Service 1-800-735-2258

Liberal Leave is in effective for Washington County Government

LIBERAL LEAVE IS IN EFFECT FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Liberal leave is in effect for all non-essential personal on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, until noon. Essential personnel are expected to fulfill their duties as usual.

The starting time for today’s Board of County Commissioners meeting will be reevaluated at 9:00 am.

For those required to travel, exercise caution on the roadways. If driving is necessary, ensure your vehicle is completely cleared, drive at a reduced speed, practice caution, and avoid crowding or passing plows.
 
We’ll keep the public informed of any changes. Stay updated by monitoring Washington County Government’s website and social media channels for the latest information. Your safety is our priority!