Types of WPDES Permit Applications

Application procedures for WPDES permits to discharge wastewater vary by the type of permit.

Individual WPDES Permit Applications

Individual WPDES permits are issued to specific municipal or industrial facilities that:

Individual Permit Application Filing Deadlines

• Initial Permits for New Discharges

  File your completed application with the DNR no later than 180 days prior to the date you intend to begin discharging wastewater. (As specified in s. NR 200.04(3), Wis. Adm. Code.)

• Reissued Permits for Existing Discharges

  File your completed application with the DNR no later than 180 days prior to your current permit’s expiration date. (As specified in s. NR 200.06, Wis. Adm. Code.)

General WPDES Permits

General permits are used to cover groups of facilities that generate wastewater from relatively simple operations having similar types and amounts of pollutants.

If you intend to apply for a new permit, first check to see if you can qualify for coverage under one of the General WPDES Permits. You may need an individual pemit if you do not find a category that fits your wastewater type, or you do not meet the eligibility requirements.

WPDES Confined Animal Feeding Operations(CAFO) Permit Applications

WPDES Stormwater Permit Applications

Pretreatment Permits (not WPDES)

Pretreatment permits are issued by local municipalities, not the DNR. If you are an industrial discharger located within a sewer service area, you may first want to consider if discharge to your local publicly-owned treatment works (POTW) is a viable option.