Underground Storage Tank Remediation NPDES General Permit
Who Needs One?
Any individual who discharges groundwater associated with remediation of contaminated groundwater at an underground storage tank (UST) must obtain an NPDES permit for such discharge. The preferred application procedure is to file for coverage under the Division of Water Resources General NPDES Permit for Discharges of Treated Groundwater Associated with Underground Storage Tank Remediation.
What Information Must I Provide?
A New Site or a Site with Expanded Discharge
An operator of a new source shall submit an NOI in accordance with the requirements of the permit at least 30 days before any discharge of treated groundwater to the waters of the state occurs.
Existing Site
For a facility presently covered by the general permit, an NOI shall be submitted within 60 days of the effective date of this general permit. If you have missed the 60-day deadline, that does not preclude you from submitting an NOI.
New Operator
Where the operator of a site that is covered by this permit changes, the new operator of the site must submit an NOI in accordance with the requirements of this part at least 5 days prior to the change. If the sale or transfer of ownership does not constitute a change of operator, and the signatory requirements for the NOI are still complied with, a new NOI does not have to be submitted.
The NOI must be started and signed by the individual meeting the requirements of subpart 7.4.1. of the permit.
Registering for An Account:
If you don’t have a MyTDEC Forms account, Go to MyTDEC Forms to register for an account. You can use the same account for multiple projects.
Submitting an NOI:
Click on MyTDEC Forms – UST and sign in.
- For an Existing Permitted Site: Select the permit number and begin form entry
- For a New Permitted Site: Begin Form Entry, fill out the form completely, and upload documents as applicable
How Will My Application Be Processed?
The Division will review the NOI and attachments for completeness and accuracy. Within 30 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: $350
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. 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 Resources, Central Office or any TDEC Environmental Field Office, or use the form above.