NPDES Program

What is NPDES?

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program was developed by the EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency) to minimize or eliminate the possibility of polluting water bodies by stormwater runoff, illegal dumping, and illicit discharges (discharges of anything other than unpolluted stormwater). All cities and the unincorporated areas of Polk County are regulated by this permit system.

As a permit condition, the City is required to submit an annual report outlining the permit elements. All permit elements must be met and the formal annual report submitted with FDEP to ensure that pollutants do not exceed the EPA's Water Quality Standards (FAC 62-302).

The City is issued a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) every five years.