The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program regulates the direct discharge of wastewater to waters of the state, working to improve Iowa's water quality. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has delegated authority to the DNR to administer the NPDES program in Iowa.

Interested Citizen / Homeowner

• What is the NPDES program?
• Where can I find a list of permit holders?
• How can I search NPDES permits?
• How can I comment on draft NPDES permits?
• What rules has the state adopted concerning wastewater?
• How can I comment on the wastewater rules?
• Where can I learn about the water quality standards?
• How can I report a suspicious discharge?
• What are the regulations for septic tanks?
• Do I need a permit for my septic tank?

Discharging Facility / Operators

• Who do I contact with questions on my permit?
• How do I apply for a permit online?,*pdf
• Where can I download permit application forms?
• How can my operator become certified?
• Where can I obtain my monthly operation reporting forms?
• What is my annual fee?
• Where can I find a list of certified labs?
• How do I calculate a geometric mean?
• What are the requirements for an industrial user discharging to a municipal system?
• What are the pretreatment regulations?
• What is Antidegradation?

Consultant / Laboratory

• Where can I find a list of permit holders?
• How can I search NPDES permits?
• How do I apply for a permit online?,*pdf
• Where can I download permit application forms?
• What are the wastewater monitoring rules?
• How can be notified of proposed wastewater rules?
• How can I comment on the wastewater rules?
• How does a lab obtain certification for wastewater testing?