Federal Register #EPA-HQ-OW-2026-6965

EPA Regulatory Update: NPDES Definition and Vessel Exclusions under Clean Water Act

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing regulatory changes to the Clean Water Act (CWA) related to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Regulatory Focus: - Revises the definition of "discharge of a pollutant" under the CWA - Updates NPDES regulations to exclude vessels and floating craft not secured to the seabed from permit requirements when adding pollutants in the contiguous zone or ocean - Clarifies and conforms regulatory exclusions for vessels and floating craft - Procurement Details: - No OEMs, vendors, products, or services are requested - No quantities or part numbers specified - Notable Requirements: - The proposal is strictly regulatory and does not involve acquisition of goods or services

Description

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposes to revise a regulatory definition under the Clean Water Act (CWA) permitting regulations related to discharges in the contiguous zone and ocean. The proposal aims to revise the definition of "discharge of a pollutant" to exclude vessels and other floating craft that add pollutants in these waters from NPDES program requirements. The rulemaking also includes clarifying changes to the NPDES regulatory exclusion for vessels and floating craft. The effect would be that pollutant additions by vessels or floating craft not secured to the seabed in these waters would not require NPDES permit authorization.

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