NPDES Permit Program

The discharge of pollutants from point sources is a major factor affecting the condition of our nation's waters. To manage these discharges, the NPDES permitting program was established in 1972 under the Clean Water Act. Discharging of point source pollutants into a water of the United States is prohibited unless an NPDES permit has been granted.

The NPDES permitting program offers training courses, workshops, and webinars to explain the regulatory framework and technical considerations of the NPDES permit program. These courses are designed for permit writers, dischargers, EPA officials, and other interested parties. 

In addition, answers to many common questions related to the NPDES program can be found on supplemental slides (pdf) from the Virtual Water Quality Standards Academy, May 2023 session. This resource provides an introduction to the NPDES program, types of permits, and effluent limitations.

These slides are a supplement for those unfamiliar with the subject and a refresher for those with more experience. Session slides are intended to be an interim resource and do not provide the same level of training as the live WQS Academy. Visit the Water Quality Standards Academy page for more information and to view other presentations.