General NPDES Permit for Discharges of Filter Backwash and
Sedimentation Basin Washwater from Water Treatment Plants (WTP)

 

 Who Needs One?

Any individual who discharges filter backwash and sedimentation basin washwater from water treatment plants to the waters of Tennessee must obtain an NPDES permit for such discharge. The preferred application method is to file for coverage under the Division of Water Pollution Control General NPDES Permit.

 What Information Must I Provide?

Applicants must submit the following information at least 120 days prior to any discharge of filter backwash and sedimentation basin washwater to the waters of the State. An original and one (1) copy of the Notices of Intent and required attachments must be sent to Water Pollution Control staff at the Environmental Assistance Center responsible for the county where the discharge is located.

» A completed Notice of Intent. This form includes name, mailing address, existing NPDES permit number and location of the facility; name of the owner/operator, mailing address, contact person and phone number; name and location, by river mile of the receiving waters; description of the plant and a list of any additives used in the treatment process; design capacity of the plant, the number and volume of sedimentation basins; the source of raw water; the number of filters that are backwashed, the frequency and volume of backwashes and sedimentation basin washouts; a water balance for backwashes and sedimentation basin washouts; a description of how sludge is disposed; type of treatment provided for backwash and sedimentation basin washwaters and the design capacity of the system.

» A facility location map with boundaries that extend at least one mile beyond the site property and identify specific locations of the discharges.

Form Description	Number	Form
Water Treatment Plant Filter Backwash and Sedimentation Basin Washwater Notice of Intent	CN-1225	PDF

 

 How Will My Application Be Processed?

The Division will review the NOI and attachments for completeness and accuracy. Within 90 days after the Division receives a complete and accurate NOI, the Division will send the permittee a notice of coverage under the general permit. Coverage under the general permit is not transferable to new facility owners.

 What Fees Are Required?

Permit Application Fee: none

Annual Permit Fee: $250

 What Are My Rights and Responsibilities After the Permit is Approved?

A permittee who has submitted an NOI and received permit coverage has the duty to comply with all provisions of the general permit and applicable rules and regulations. If the applicant objects to the Division’s determination they may request that the Division reassess their decisions. This request must be made within 15 days of the transmittal letter. Coverage under the NPDES general permit does not relieve the permittee of the responsibility for damages to surface or ground water. The permittee must notify the Division as soon as possible of planned alteration or additions to the permitted facility or of any change in mailing address. The permittee is responsible for monitoring discharge, reporting data, keeping records, and placing signs at discharge outfalls as detailed in the general permit. If the facility experiences any emergency that could impact the waters of the state, they must notify the Division as detailed in the general permit.

 What Are the Division’s Rights and Responsibilities After the Permit is Approved?

The Division has the right to revoke, suspend, or deny the issuance of a permit to any applicant who violates the state statutes, departmental regulations, or terms of the general permit. The Division has the right to inspect the site, monitoring equipment, and associated records at reasonable times. They also have the right to sample any discharge. Any person who violates or fails to comply with the state statutes, rules, or regulations may be subject to criminal and/or civil penalties.

 Whom Do I Contact For Applications, Assistance and Other Information?

Applicants may obtain applications and assistance from the Division of Water Pollution Control, Central Office or any TDEC Environmental Field Office, or use the form above.

 Applicants may refer to the following publications for further information:

» NEW - DRAFT General Permit for Discharges from Water Treatment Plants. Rationale Sheet for Draft General Permit
» General NPDES Permit for Discharges of Filter Backwash and Sedimentation Basin Washwater from Water Treatment Plants. Notice of Determination (NOD) & Rationale Sheet
» TCA § 69-3-108 Tennessee Water Quality Control Act of 1977