Final 2013 VGP

VESSEL GENERAL PERMIT FOR DISCHARGES INCIDENTAL TO THE NORMAL 

OPERATION OF VESSELS (VGP)

AUTHORIZATION TO DISCHARGE UNDER THE

NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM

In compliance with the provisions of the Clean Water Act (CWA), as amended (33 USC 1251 et 

seq.), any owner or operator of a vessel being operated in a capacity as a means of transportation 

who: 

• Is eligible for permit coverage under Part 1.2; and

• If required by Part 1.5.1, submits a complete and accurate Notice of Intent (NOI) 

or completes a Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection (PARI) form and 

retains it onboard the vessel 

Is authorized to discharge in accordance with the requirements of this permit. 

General effluent limits for all eligible vessels are given in Part 2. Further vessel class or type 

specific requirements are given in Part 5 for select vessels and apply in addition to any general 

effluent limits in Part 2. Specific requirements that apply in individual states and Indian Country 

Lands are found in Part 6. Definitions of permit-specific terms used in this permit are provided in 

Appendix A. 

This permit becomes effective on December 19, 2013. 

This permit and the authorization to discharge expire at midnight December 19, 2018. 

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Final 2013 VGP

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Ira W. Leighton, Deputy Regional Administrator 

EPA Region 1

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Joan Leary Matthews, Director

Clean Water Division, EPA Region 2

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Ramon Torres, Acting Director

Caribbean Environmental Protection Division 

EPA Region 2

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Jon M. Capacasa, Director

Water Protection Division, EPA Region 3 

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

James D. Giattina, Director

Water Protection Division, EPA Region 4 

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Tinka G. Hyde, Director

Water Division, EPA Region 5

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

William K. Honker, Director 

Water Quality Protection Division, 

EPA Region 6

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Karen Flournoy, Director 

Water, Wetlands and Pesticides Division,

EPA Region 7

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Derrith R. Watchman-Moore, Assistant Regional 

Administrator

Office of Partnerships and Regulatory 

Assistance, EPA Region 8

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

John Kemmerer, Acting Director 

Water Division, EPA Region 9

Signed and issued this 28th day of March, 2013 

Daniel D. Opalski, Director 

Office of Water and Watersheds, EPA Region 10

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Final 2013 VGP

Table of Contents: 

1. COVERAGE UNDER THIS PERMIT .......................................................................................... 8

1.1 Permit Structure ...................................................................................................... 8

1.2 Eligibility ................................................................................................................ 8

1.2.1 General Scope of this Permit ...................................................................... 8

1.2.2 Vessel Discharges Eligible for Coverage ................................................... 8

1.2.3 Limitations on Coverage ........................................................................... 10

1.3 Reserved ................................................................................................................ 12

1.4 Permit Compliance................................................................................................ 12

1.5 Authorization under this Permit ............................................................................ 13

1.5.1 How to Obtain Authorization.................................................................... 13

1.5.2 Continuation of this Permit ....................................................................... 15

1.6 Terminating Coverage .......................................................................................... 15

1.6.1 Terminating Coverage for Vessels Required to Submit a Notice of 

Intent (NOI) .............................................................................................. 15

1.6.2 Terminating Coverage for Vessels not Required to Submit a Notice 

of Intent (NOI) .......................................................................................... 16

1.7 Certification .......................................................................................................... 16

1.8 Alternative Permits ............................................................................................... 17

1.8.1 EPA Requiring Coverage under an Alternative Permit ............................ 17

1.8.2 Permittee Requesting Coverage under an Alternative Permit .................. 17

1.9 Permit Reopener Clause ........................................................................................ 18

1.9.1 Modification of the VGP .......................................................................... 18

1.9.2 Water Quality Protection .......................................................................... 18

1.10 Severability ........................................................................................................... 19

1.11 State Laws ............................................................................................................. 19

1.12 Federal Laws ......................................................................................................... 19

1.13 Standard Permit Conditions .................................................................................. 19

1.14 Electronic Reporting Requirement ....................................................................... 19

1.15 Additional Notes ................................................................................................... 20

2. EFFLUENT LIMITS AND RELATED REQUIREMENTS ............................................................. 21

2.1 Technology-Based Effluent Limits and Related Requirements Applicable 

to all Vessels ......................................................................................................... 21

2.1.1 Material Storage ........................................................................................ 21

2.1.2 Toxic and Hazardous Materials ................................................................ 21

2.1.3 Fuel Spills/Overflows ............................................................................... 22

2.1.4 Discharges of Oil Including Oily Mixtures .............................................. 22

2.1.5 Compliance with Other Statutes and Regulations .................................... 23

2.1.6 General Training ....................................................................................... 23

2.2 Effluent Limits and Related Requirements for Specific Discharge 

Categories ............................................................................................................. 23

2.2.1 Deck Washdown and Runoff and Above Water Line Hull Cleaning ....... 23

2.2.2 Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent ................................................ 24

2.2.3 Ballast Water ............................................................................................. 26

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2.2.4 Anti-Fouling Hull Coatings/ Hull Coating Leachate ................................ 44

2.2.5 Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) ...................................................... 45

2.2.6 Boiler/Economizer Blowdown.................................................................. 45

2.2.7 Cathodic Protection ................................................................................... 46

2.2.8 Chain Locker Effluent............................................................................... 46

2.2.9 Controllable Pitch Propeller and Thruster Hydraulic Fluid and 

Other Oil-to-Sea Interfaces Including Lubrication Discharges from 

Paddle Wheel Propulsion, Stern Tubes, Thruster Bearings, 

Stabilizers, Rudder Bearings, Azimuth Thrusters, Propulsion Pod 

Lubrication, and Wire Rope and Mechanical Equipment Subject to 

Immersion 47

2.2.10 Distillation and Reverse Osmosis Brine ................................................... 48

2.2.11 Elevator Pit Effluent ................................................................................. 48

2.2.12 Firemain Systems ...................................................................................... 48

2.2.13 Freshwater Layup...................................................................................... 48

2.2.14 Gas Turbine Washwater ............................................................................ 48

2.2.15 Graywater 49

2.2.16 Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge ......................................... 51

2.2.17 Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater ............................................................. 51

2.2.18 Refrigeration and Air Condensate Discharge ........................................... 51

2.2.19 Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge (Including Non-Contact 

Engine Cooling Water; Hydraulic System Cooling Water, 

Refrigeration Cooling Water) ................................................................... 52

2.2.20 Seawater Piping Biofouling Prevention .................................................... 52

2.2.21 Boat Engine Wet Exhaust ......................................................................... 52

2.2.22 Sonar Dome Discharge ............................................................................. 53

2.2.23 Underwater Ship Husbandry and Hull Fouling Discharges ...................... 53

2.2.24 Welldeck Discharges ................................................................................ 54

2.2.25 Graywater Mixed with Sewage from Vessels ........................................... 54

2.2.26 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge ........................................... 54

2.2.26.1 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge Standards ........ 55

2.2.27 Fish Hold Effluent..................................................................................... 58

2.3 Additional Water Quality-Based Effluent Limits ................................................. 59

2.3.1 Water Quality-Based Effluent Limitations ............................................... 59

2.3.2 Discharges to Water Quality Impaired Waters ......................................... 59

3. CORRECTIVE ACTIONS ....................................................................................................... 61

3.1 Problems Triggering the Need for Corrective Action........................................... 61

3.2 Corrective Action Assessment .............................................................................. 61

3.3 Deadlines for Eliminating Problem ...................................................................... 62

3.4 Effect of Corrective Action ................................................................................... 63

4. INSPECTIONS, MONITORING, REPORTING, AND RECORDKEEPING ....................................... 64

4.1 Self Inspections and Monitoring ........................................................................... 64

4.1.1 Routine Visual Inspections ....................................................................... 64

4.1.2 Analytical Monitoring ............................................................................... 66

4.1.3 Comprehensive Annual Vessel Inspections .............................................. 66

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4.1.4 Drydock Inspection Reports ..................................................................... 67

4.2 Recordkeeping ...................................................................................................... 68

4.2.1 Electronic Recordkeeping ......................................................................... 71

4.3 Additional Recordkeeping for Vessels Equipped with Ballast Tanks .................. 71

4.4 Reporting............................................................................................................... 72

4.4.1 Annual Report ........................................................................................... 72

4.4.2 Combined Annual Reports for Unmanned, Unpowered Barges or 

Vessels less than 300 Gross Tons ............................................................. 73

4.4.3 Reportable Quantities of Hazardous Substances or Oil ............................ 73

4.4.4 Additional Reporting ................................................................................ 74

5. VESSEL-CLASS-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................... 75

5.1 Large Cruise Ships (authorized to carry 500 people or more for hire) ................. 75

5.1.1 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 75

5.1.2 Monitoring Requirements ......................................................................... 77

5.1.3 Educational and Training Requirements ................................................... 79

5.2 Medium Cruise Ships (authorized to carry 100 to 499 people for hire) ............... 80

5.2.1 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 80

5.2.2 Monitoring Requirements ......................................................................... 82

5.2.3 Educational and Training Requirements ................................................... 85

5.3 Large Ferries ......................................................................................................... 86

5.3.1 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 86

5.3.2 Educational and Training Requirements ................................................... 86

5.4 Barges (such as Hopper Barges, Chemical Barges, Tank Barges, Fuel 

Barges, Crane Barges, Dry Bulk Cargo Barges) ................................................... 87

5.4.1 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 87

5.4.2 Supplemental Inspection Requirements .................................................... 88

5.5 Oil Tankers, Petroleum Tankers, and Bulk Chemical Carriers ............................ 88

5.5.1 Additional Authorized Discharges ............................................................ 88

5.5.2 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 88

5.5.3 Supplemental Inspection Requirements .................................................... 88

5.5.4 Educational and Training Requirements ................................................... 89

5.6 Research Vessels ................................................................................................... 89

5.6.1 Supplemental Authorized Discharges ....................................................... 89

5.6.2 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 89

5.7 Emergency and Rescue Vessels (Fire Boats, Police Boats) ................................. 89

5.7.1 Supplemental Authorized Discharges ....................................................... 90

5.7.2 Additional Effluent Limits ........................................................................ 90

6. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUAL STATES OR INDIAN COUNTRY LANDS ............. 91

6.1 Alaska ................................................................................................................... 91

6.2 Arizona .................................................................................................................. 92

6.3 Arkansas ................................................................................................................ 93

6.4 California .............................................................................................................. 94

6.5 Connecticut ........................................................................................................... 97

6.6 Georgia ................................................................................................................ 100

6.7 Hawaii ................................................................................................................. 101

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6.8 Idaho ................................................................................................................... 107

6.9 Illinois ................................................................................................................. 111

6.10 Indiana................................................................................................................. 112

6.11 Iowa..................................................................................................................... 113

6.12 Kansas ................................................................................................................. 114

6.13 Maine .................................................................................................................. 114

6.14 Michigan ............................................................................................................. 116

6.15 Minnesota ............................................................................................................ 118

6.16 Missouri .............................................................................................................. 122

6.17 Nebraska ............................................................................................................. 122

6.18 New Hampshire .................................................................................................. 123

6.19 New York ............................................................................................................ 124

6.20 North Carolina .................................................................................................... 128

6.21 Ohio..................................................................................................................... 129

6.22 Rhode Island ....................................................................................................... 132

6.23 Vermont .............................................................................................................. 133

6.24 Washington ......................................................................................................... 134

6.25 Wisconsin ............................................................................................................ 137

APPENDIX A – DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................... 140

APPENDIX B – EPA REGIONAL CONTACTS .................................................................................. 151

APPENDIX C – AREAS COVERED .................................................................................................. 152

APPENDIX D – RESERVED ............................................................................................................ 152

APPENDIX E – NOTICE OF INTENT (NOI) ..................................................................................... 153

APPENDIX F – NOTICE OF TERMINATION (NOT) .......................................................................... 161

APPENDIX G – WATERS FEDERALLY PROTECTED WHOLLY OR IN PART FOR CONSERVATION 

PURPOSES ........................................................................................................................ 163

APPENDIX H – ANNUAL REPORT .................................................................................................. 181

APPENDIX I – STANDARD DISCHARGE MONITORING REPORT ...................................................... 190

APPENDIX J – BALLAST WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM SENSORS, MEASUREMENT 

REQUIREMENTS AND APPROPRIATE EQUIPMENT FOR PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL 

INDICATOR MONITORING ................................................................................................. 191

APPENDIX K – PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND RECORD OF INSPECTION FORM (PARI) (FOR 

VESSELS WHICH NEED NOT COMPLETE NOIS) ................................................................... 194

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List of Tables

Table 1: NOI Submission Deadlines/Discharge Authorization Dates ...........................................14

Table 2: Indicator Organism Monitoring Parameters ...................................................................31

Table 3: Maximum Ballast Water Effluent Limits for Residual Biocides....................................33

Table 4: Monitoring Schedule for Residual Biocides or Derivatives of the Residual 

Biocide ...............................................................................................................................34

Table 5: Residual Biocides and Biocide Derivative Monitoring Requirements ...........................34

Table 6: Ballast Water Treatment to BAT Schedule ....................................................................38

Table 7: PAH Permit Limits in Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge ...............................................55

Table 8: Nitrates + Nitrites Permit Limits in Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge ..........................56

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1. COVERAGE UNDER THIS PERMIT

1.1 Permit Structure

This permit is structured as follows: 

• General requirements that apply to all eligible vessel discharges are found in Parts 

1 through 4; 

• Specific additional requirements that apply to particular vessel classes are found 

in Part 5; and 

• Specific additional requirements that apply in individual states or Indian Country 

Lands are found in Part 6. 

The Appendices A through K include definitions, the NOI form, the Notice of Termination 

(NOT) form, a list of waters federally protected for conservation purposes, the annual report 

form, DMR forms, the Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection (PARI) form, and 

supplemental information. 

1.2 Eligibility

You must meet the following provisions to be eligible for coverage under this permit. 

1.2.1 General Scope of this Permit

This permit is applicable to discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel identified in 

Part 1.2.2 into waters subject to this permit. These waters are “waters of the United States” as 

defined in 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §122.2 (extending to the outer reach of the 3 

mile territorial sea as defined in section 502(8) of the CWA). This includes all navigable waters 

of the Great Lakes subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Recreational vessels as defined 

in section 502(25) of the CWA are not subject to this permit. Such vessels are not subject to 

NPDES permitting under section 402 of the CWA, and are instead subject to regulation under 

section 312(o) of the CWA. EPA expects that most vessels seeking coverage under this permit 

will be greater than 79 feet in length; however, commercial fishing vessels and other nonrecreational vessels less than 79 feet are also eligible for permit coverage under this permit or 

those vessels may seek coverage under EPA’s small Vessel General Permit (sVGP), as available 

and appropriate. If auxiliary vessels or craft, such as lifeboats, rescue boats, or barges onboard 

larger vessels require NPDES permit coverage, they are eligible for coverage under this permit 

and are covered by submission of the NOI for the larger vessels. For purposes of recordkeeping, 

inspections, and reporting, auxiliary vessels may be considered as part of the same entity as the 

larger vessel. Nothing in this permit shall be interpreted to apply to a vessel of the Armed Forces 

as defined in section 312(a)(14) of the CWA. 

1.2.2 Vessel Discharges Eligible for Coverage 

Unless otherwise made ineligible under Part 1.2.3, the following discharge types are eligible for 

coverage under this permit: 

1.2.2.1 Deck Washdown and Runoff and Above Water Line Hull Cleaning

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1.2.2.2 Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent

1.2.2.3 Ballast Water 

1.2.2.4 Anti-fouling Hull Coatings/Hull Coating Leachate 

1.2.2.5 Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)

1.2.2.6 Boiler/Economizer Blowdown

1.2.2.7 Cathodic Protection

1.2.2.8 Chain Locker Effluent

1.2.2.9 Controllable Pitch Propeller and Thruster Hydraulic Fluid and other Oil Sea 

Interfaces including Lubrication Discharges from Paddle Wheel Propulsion, 

Stern Tubes, Thruster Bearings, Stabilizers, Rudder Bearings, Azimuth 

Thrusters, and Propulsion Pod Lubrication, and Wire Rope and Mechanical 

Equipment Subject to Immersion

1.2.2.10 Distillation and Reverse Osmosis Brine

1.2.2.11 Elevator Pit Effluent

1.2.2.12 Firemain Systems

1.2.2.13 Freshwater Layup

1.2.2.14 Gas Turbine Washwater 

1.2.2.15 Graywater 

Except that Graywater from commercial vessels within the meaning of CWA section 312 that are 

operating in the Great Lakes is excluded from the requirement to obtain an NPDES permit (see 

CWA section 502(6)), and thus is not within the scope of this permit. 

1.2.2.16 Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge 

1.2.2.17 Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater

1.2.2.18 Refrigeration and Air Condensate Discharge

1.2.2.19 Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge (Including Non-Contact Engine Cooling 

Water; Hydraulic System Cooling Water, Refrigeration Cooling Water) 

1.2.2.20 Seawater Piping Biofouling Prevention 

1.2.2.21 Boat Engine Wet Exhaust 

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1.2.2.22 Sonar Dome Discharge 

1.2.2.23 Underwater Ship Husbandry

1.2.2.24 Welldeck Discharges

1.2.2.25 Graywater Mixed with Sewage from Vessels 

1.2.2.26 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge

1.2.2.27 Fish Hold Effluent

1.2.3 Limitations on Coverage

1.2.3.1 Discharges Not Subject to Former NPDES Permit Exclusion and Vessel 

Discharges Generated from Vessels when they are Operated in a Capacity Other 

than as a Means of Transportation 

Discharges that are outside the scope of the former exclusion from NPDES permitting for 

discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel as set out in 40 CFR §122.3(a), as in 

effect on December 18, 2008, are ineligible for coverage under this permit. This permit does not 

apply to any vessel when it is operating in a capacity other than as a means of transportation. For 

any discharges identified in this permit, discharges are not eligible if they contain materials 

resulting from industrial or manufacturing processes onboard or other materials not derived from 

the normal operations of a vessel. 

Vessels when they are being used as an energy or mining facility, a storage facility, a seafood 

processing facility, or when secured to the bed of waters subject to this permit or to a buoy for 

the purpose of mineral or oil exploration or development are not eligible for coverage under this 

permit. Furthermore, “floating” craft that are permanently moored to piers, such as “floating” 

casinos, hotels, restaurants, bars, etc. are not covered by the former vessel exclusion and would 

not be covered by this vessel permit. 

1.2.3.2 Sewage 

Discharges of sewage from vessels, as defined in CWA section 502(6) and 40 CFR §122.2, are 

not required to obtain NPDES permits. Instead, these discharges are regulated under section 312 

of the CWA and 40 CFR Part 140 and 33 CFR Part 159. Under CWA section 312(a)(6), the 

definition of sewage includes graywater discharges from “commercial vessels” (as defined in 

CWA section 312(a)(10)) operating on the Great Lakes. If a vessel operating on the Great Lakes 

is not a “commercial vessel” as defined in CWA section 312(a)(10), the vessel’s graywater 

discharges are eligible for coverage under this permit, and are subject to the additional permit 

requirements in Part 2.2.15.1. 

1.2.3.3 Used or Spent Oil

Discharges of used or spent oil no longer being used for their intended purposes are not eligible 

for coverage under this permit. 

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1.2.3.4 Garbage or Trash 

Discharges of rubbish, trash, garbage, or other such materials discharged overboard are not 

eligible for coverage under this permit. “Garbage” includes discharges of bulk dry cargo residues 

as defined at 33 CFR §151.66(b) (73 Fed. Reg. 56492 (September 29, 2008)) and agricultural 

cargo residues. Discharges of garbage are subject to regulation under 33 CFR Part 151, Subpart 

A.

1.2.3.5 Photo-Processing Effluent 

Discharges from photo-processing operations are not eligible for coverage under this permit.

1.2.3.6 Effluent from Dry Cleaning Operations 

Discharges of spent or unused effluent from dry cleaning operations are not eligible for coverage 

under this permit. This includes any spent or unused tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene) 

from these operations. 

1.2.3.7 Discharges of Medical Waste and Related Materials

Discharges of medical waste as defined in 33 USC 1362(20) are not eligible for coverage under 

this permit. Discharges of spent or unused pharmaceuticals, formaldehyde, or other biohazards 

no longer being used for their intended purposes are not eligible for coverage under this permit. 

For purposes of this permit, the liquid produced by dialysis treatment of humans is not deemed to 

be “medical waste,” and, like other human body waste, is subject to regulation under CWA §312 

if introduced into marine sanitation devices, or under VGP Part 2.2.25 if added to a blackwater 

system combined with a graywater system. The direct overboard discharge of such liquid without 

treatment is not eligible for coverage under this permit.

1.2.3.8 Discharges of Noxious Liquid Substance Residues 

Discharges of noxious liquid substance residues subject to 33 CFR Part 151, Subpart A or 46 

CFR §153.1102 are not eligible for coverage under this permit. 

1.2.3.9 Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene) and Trichloroethylene (TCE) 

Degreasers

Discharges of tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene) and trichloroethylene (TCE) degreasers or 

other products containing tetrachloroethylene or trichloroethylene are not eligible for coverage

under this permit. 

1.2.3.10 Discharges Currently or Previously Covered by an another NPDES Permit

The following discharges are not eligible for coverage under this permit: 

• Vessel discharges covered, as of the effective date of this permit, under an 

individual or a general NPDES permit other than the VGP, unless EPA 

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specifically allows coverage under Part 1.8.2, or otherwise provides written 

permission to be covered under this permit, or 

• Discharges from vessels covered by any NPDES permit that has been or is in the 

process of being denied, terminated, or revoked by EPA or a state permitting 

authority (this does not apply to the routine reissuance of permits every five 

years). 

1.3 Reserved

1.4 Permit Compliance

The CWA provides that any person who knowingly falsifies, tampers with, or renders inaccurate 

any monitoring device or method required to be maintained under the CWA shall, upon 

conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000, or by imprisonment for not more 

than 2 years, or both. If a conviction of a person is for a violation committed after a first 

conviction of such person under this paragraph, punishment is a fine of not more than $20,000 

per day of violation, or by imprisonment of not more than 4 years, or both. The Act similarly 

provides that any person who knowingly makes any false material statement, representation, or 

certification in any application, record, report, plan or other document filed or required to be 

maintained under the CWA shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than 

$10,000 per violation, or by imprisonment for not more than 6 months per violation, or by both. 

In addition, false statements or representations, as well as alterations or false entries in 

documents, may be punishable by more severe criminal penalties pursuant to 18 USC §1001 or 

18 USC §1519. 

Permittees have a duty to comply with this permit consistent with 40 CFR §122.41(a), as 

incorporated by reference in Part 1.13 of this permit. Any noncompliance with the requirements 

of this permit constitutes a violation of the CWA and grounds for enforcement action consistent 

with provisions outlined in 40 CFR §122.41(a). Each day a violation continues is a separate 

violation of this permit. Where requirements and schedules for taking corrective actions are 

included in this permit, the time intervals provided are not grace periods, but schedules 

considered reasonable for making repairs and improvements. They are included in this permit to 

ensure that the conditions prompting the need for these corrective actions are not allowed to 

persist indefinitely. You must return to compliance as promptly as possible, but no later than the 

time period specified in this permit. For provisions specifying a time period to remedy 

noncompliance, the initial and continuing failure, such as a violation of numeric or non-numeric 

effluent limits, constitutes a violation of this permit and the CWA. As such, any time periods 

specified for remedying noncompliance do not relieve parties of the initial underlying 

noncompliance. However, EPA will consider the appropriateness and promptness of corrective 

action in determining enforcement responses to permit violations. 

To provide clarity for the permittee, there are additional reminders in certain sections of this 

permit about what constitutes a permit violation. The absence of such a reminder in a particular 

section does not mean that failure to meet that requirement is not a permit violation. 

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1.5 Authorization under this Permit

1.5.1 How to Obtain Authorization 

To obtain authorization to discharge under this permit, you must meet the Part 1.2 eligibility 

requirements. If your vessel meets the requirements under Part 1.5.1.1, and you were authorized 

to discharge under the 2008 VGP, you must submit an NOI to receive permit coverage seven 

days before the effective date of this permit to continue uninterrupted coverage. Vessels 

authorized to discharge under the 2008 VGP were vessels that had submitted an NOI or were not 

subject to the NOI requirement by Part 1.5.1.2 of the 2008 VGP. If you were not authorized to 

discharge under the 2008 VGP and your vessel meets the requirements under Part 1.5.1.1, you 

must submit an NOI to receive permit coverage at least 7 days or more than 30 days (as 

applicable) before discharging into waters subject to this permit (see Table 1 below). 

Owner/operators of vessels that meet the requirements under Part 1.5.1.2 are not required to 

submit NOIs. Instead these owner/operators must sign and maintain a copy of the PARI form. 

1.5.1.1 Vessels Required to Submit Notices of Intent (NOIs)

If your vessel is greater than or equal to 300 gross tons or the vessel has the capacity to hold or 

discharge more than 8 cubic meters (2,113 gallons) of ballast water, you must submit a signed 

and certified, complete and accurate NOI in accordance with the requirements of Appendix E to 

receive coverage under this permit. Submission must be in accordance with the deadlines in 

Table 1. 

If you are required to submit an NOI, you must submit your NOI using EPA’s Electronic Notice 

of Intent (eNOI) system (www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI) unless you meet one of the 

exemptions in Part 1.14 of this permit. EPA will post on the Internet, at 

www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI, all NOIs processed. If you do not have an active NOI, before 

you commence discharging, you will be in violation of the permit. 

Paper NOIs will only be accepted if you meet one of the electronic reporting exemptions found 

in Part 1.14 of this permit. However, even if accepted, there may be an extended waiting period 

for your authorization to discharge as compared to the waiting period for electronic submissions. 

As noted in the footnote to the Table, the Discharge Authorization Date may be delayed by EPA.

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Table 1: NOI Submission Deadlines/Discharge Authorization Dates

Category NOI Deadline Discharge Authorization Date*

Vessels authorized to discharge 

under the 2008 Vessel General 

Permit (VGP) 

No later than December 12, 

2013 or 7 days prior to 

discharge into waters subject 

to this permit, whichever is 

later

For eNOIs:

December 19, 2013 or, if not submitted by 

December 12, 2013, 7 days after complete 

NOI processed** by EPA 

For Paper NOIs: 30 days after complete NOI

processed by EPA

New Owner/Operator of Vessel 

– transfer of ownership and/or 

operation of a vessel whose 

discharge is previously 

authorized under this permit

By date of transfer of 

ownership and/or operation

Date of transfer or date EPA processes NOI, 

whichever is later 

New vessels delivered to owner 

or operator after December 19, 

2013

For vessels submitting 

eNOIs:

7 days prior to discharge into 

waters subject to this permit

For vessels submitting Paper 

NOIs: At least 30 days prior 

to discharge into waters 

subject to this permit

For eNOIs:

7 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

For Paper NOIs: 

30 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

Existing vessels delivered to 

owner or operator after 

December 19, 2013 that were not 

previously authorized under this 

permit

For vessels submitting eNOIs:

7 days prior to discharge into 

waters subject to this permit

For vessels submitting Paper 

NOIs: At least 30 days prior 

to discharge into waters 

subject to this permit

For eNOIs: 

7 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

For Paper NOIs: 

30 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

* Based on a review of your NOI or other information, EPA may delay the discharge authorization date for further review, or 

may deny coverage under this permit and require submission of an application for an individual NPDES permit, as detailed in 

Part 1.8 of the permit. In these instances, EPA will notify you in writing of the delay or the request for submission of an 

individual NPDES permit application. If EPA requires an individual permit for an existing vessel previously covered by this 

general permit, EPA will allow the permittee a reasonable amount of time to obtain individual permit coverage before their 

general permit coverage terminates.

** NOI processing means that a complete electronic NOI has been submitted and successfully signed and certified by the 

permittee, or in the case of a paper NOI, that EPA has received your NOI and input the information into its electronic system. 

Submitting a paper NOI may result in processing delays dependent upon the volume of NOIs received by EPA. 

1.5.1.2 Vessels Not Required to Submit Notices of Intent (NOIs)

If your vessel is less than 300 gross tons and your vessel does not have the capacity to hold or 

discharge more than 8 cubic meters (2113 gallons) of ballast water, you do not need to submit an 

NOI. However, you must complete the PARI form found in Appendix K, and keep a copy of that 

form onboard your vessel at all times. Provisions for retaining an electronic copy of the PARI 

form are described in Part 4.2.1. 

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1.5.2 Continuation of this Permit

If this permit is not reissued or replaced prior to the expiration date, it will be administratively 

continued in accordance with section 558(c) of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 USC 558(c)) 

and EPA’s implementing regulations at 40 CFR §122.6 and remain in force and effect for 

discharges that were covered prior to expiration. If you were granted permit coverage prior to the 

expiration date, you will automatically remain covered by this permit until the earliest of: 

• Your authorization for coverage under a reissuance or replacement of this permit, 

following your timely and appropriate submittal of a complete NOI requesting 

authorization to discharge under the new permit and compliance with the 

requirements of the new permit; or

• Your submittal of a Notice of Termination (NOT); or

• Issuance of a new general permit that covers your vessel discharges or vessel type 

and provides you coverage without requiring you to submit an NOI to obtain 

coverage; or 

• Issuance or denial of an individual permit for the vessel’s discharges; or 

• A formal permit decision by EPA not to reissue this general permit, at which time 

EPA will identify a reasonable time period for covered dischargers to seek 

coverage under an alternative general permit or an individual permit. Coverage 

under this permit will cease at the end of this time period.

1.6 Terminating Coverage 

1.6.1 Terminating Coverage for Vessels Required to Submit a Notice of Intent (NOI)

1.6.1.1 Submitting a Notice of Termination (NOT) 

If you wish to terminate coverage under this permit, and you were required to file a NOI by Part 

1.5.1.1, you must submit your NOT in accordance with Appendix F. Vessels holding a valid NOI 

are not required to terminate their NOI when they move in and out of waters subject to the VGP, 

or when they are engaged in industrial activity and subject to another NPDES permit while 

conducting those activities. 

If you were required to file a NOI by Part 1.5.1.1, you may use the eNOI system to file your 

NOT, available at www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI. Your authorization to discharge under this 

permit terminates at 11:59 pm on the day that a complete NOT is processed and posted on EPA’s 

website (www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI). If you submit a NOT without meeting at least one 

of the conditions identified in Part 1.6.1.2, then your NOT is not valid. You will continue to be 

responsible for discharges from your vessel until you have submitted a valid NOT and it is 

posted on EPA’s website, unless permit coverage is terminated without a NOT pursuant to Part 

1.6.2 or 1.8. 

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1.6.1.2 When to Submit a NOT

If you were required to submit a NOI pursuant to Part 1.5.1 to be released from the requirements 

of this permit, you must submit a NOT within 30 days after one or more of the following 

conditions have been met: 

• A new owner or operator has taken over responsibility for the vessel; or 

• You have permanently ceased operating the vessel in waters subject to this permit 

and there are no longer vessel discharges in such waters; or 

• You have obtained coverage under an individual or alternative general permit for 

all discharges required to be covered by an NPDES permit, unless you were 

directed to obtain this coverage by EPA in accordance with Part 1.8.1. 

1.6.2 Terminating Coverage for Vessels not Required to Submit a Notice of Intent 

(NOI)

For vessels that are not required to submit a NOI under Part 1.5.1.2, termination of coverage is 

automatic if any of the following conditions are met:

• A new owner or operator has taken over responsibility for the vessel; or 

• You have permanently ceased operating the vessel in waters subject to this permit 

and there are no longer vessel discharges; or

• You have obtained coverage under an individual or alternative general permit for 

all discharges required to be covered by an NPDES permit.

1.7 Certification

The NOI, NOT, the VGP PARI Form, and any reports (including any monitoring data) submitted 

to EPA must include the following certification: 

“I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my 

direction or supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel 

properly gathered and evaluated the information contained therein. Based on my inquiry of the 

person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the 

information, the information contained is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, 

and complete. I have no personal knowledge that the information submitted is other than true, 

accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false 

information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations.” 

All other documentation required under this permit, but not required to be submitted to EPA, 

must be signed and dated by the person preparing the documentation. 

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1.8 Alternative Permits

1.8.1 EPA Requiring Coverage under an Alternative Permit

Pursuant to 40 CFR §122.28(b)(3), EPA may require you to apply for an individual NPDES 

permit or an alternative NPDES general permit. Any interested person may petition EPA to take 

action under this paragraph. If EPA requires you to apply for an individual NPDES permit, EPA 

will notify you in writing that a permit application is required. This notification will include a 

brief statement of the reasons for this decision and will provide application information. In 

addition, if you are an existing permittee authorized to discharge under this permit, the notice 

will set a deadline to file the permit application, and will include a statement that on the effective 

date of the individual NPDES permit, or the alternative general permit as it applies to you, 

coverage under this general permit will terminate. EPA may grant additional time to submit the 

application if you request it. If you are covered under this permit and fail to submit an individual 

NPDES permit application as required by EPA, then your coverage under this permit is 

terminated at midnight on the day specified by EPA as the deadline for application submittal. In 

addition, if EPA denies your application for an individual NPDES permit, you are also not 

authorized to discharge under this general permit. EPA may take enforcement action for any 

unpermitted discharge.

When an individual NPDES permit is issued to you or you are authorized to discharge under an 

alternative NPDES general permit, your coverage under this permit is terminated on the effective 

date of the individual permit or the date of authorization of coverage under the alternative 

general permit. In this case (where EPA requires you to obtain coverage under an individual or 

alternative general permit), you are not required to file a NOT as discussed above.

1.8.2 Permittee Requesting Coverage under an Alternative Permit

You may request to be excluded from coverage under this general permit by applying for an 

individual permit per 40 CFR §122.28(b)(3)(iii). In such a case, you must submit an individual 

permit application in accordance with the requirements of 40 CFR §122.21, with reasons 

supporting the request, to EPA at the appropriate EPA Regional Office(s) listed in Appendix B

of this permit, no later than 90 days after December 19, 2013. The request may be granted by 

issuance of an individual permit or authorizing coverage under an alternative general permit if 

your reasons are adequate to support the request. A source excluded from this general permit 

solely because it already has an individual permit may request that the individual permit be 

revoked, and that it be covered by this general permit. Upon revocation of the individual permit, 

this general permit shall apply to the source. 

When an individual NPDES permit is issued to you or you are authorized to discharge under an 

alternative NPDES general permit, your authorization to discharge under this permit is 

terminated on the effective date of the individual permit or the date of authorization of coverage 

under the alternative general permit. 

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1.9 Permit Reopener Clause

1.9.1 Modification of the VGP 

Permit modification or revocation will be conducted according to 40 CFR §§122.62, 122.63, 

122.64, and 124.5.This permit is subject to modification in accordance with 40 CFR §§124.5 and 

122.62. Grounds for such modification include receipt of new information that was not available 

at the time of permit issuance (other than revised regulations, guidance, or test methods) and 

would have justified the application of different permit conditions at the time of permit issuance. 

With respect to ballast water discharges, new information that will be considered in determining 

whether to modify this permit includes, but is not limited to, data or information from permittees, 

the general public, states, academia, scientific or technical articles or studies, results of 

monitoring conducted under this permit, and whether the U.S. Coast Guard has received a 

written extension request pursuant to 33 CFR 151.2036 indicating that: 

• Treatment technology has improved such that these improved technologies would have 

justified the application of significantly more stringent effluent limitations or other permit 

conditions had they been known at the time of permit issuance; 

• Treatment technologies known of at the time of permit issuance perform better than 

understood at the time of permit issuance such that this improved performance would 

have justified the application of significantly more stringent effluent limitations or other 

permit conditions had this been understood at the time of permit issuance; 

• Treatment technology for a certain vessel(s) will not be available within the timeframe 

specified in Part 2.2.3.5.2, Table 6, such that this information would have justified the 

imposition of a different implementation date had it been known at the time of permit 

issuance.

• Scientific understanding of pollutant effects or of invasion biology has evolved such that 

this new information would have justified the application of significantly more stringent 

effluent limitations or other permit conditions had this been understood at the time of 

permit issuance; or

• The cumulative effects of any discharge authorized by the VGP on the environment are 

unacceptable.

Regarding implementation dates of the limits found in Part 2.2.3.5 of the VGP, EPA advises that 

where the U.S. Coast Guard has granted or denied an extension request pursuant to 33 CFR 

151.2036, that information will be considered by EPA, but is not binding on EPA. 

1.9.2 Water Quality Protection

EPA may require you to obtain an individual permit in accordance with Part 1.8 of this permit 

for cause. This may happen, for example, if there is evidence that the discharges authorized by 

this permit cause or have the reasonable potential to cause or contribute to an excursion above 

any applicable water quality standard in the receiving water body or downstream waters. 

Similarly, EPA may modify this permit to include different limitations and/or requirements for 

cause.

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1.10 Severability

Invalidation of a portion of this permit does not necessarily render the whole permit invalid. 

EPA’s intent is that the permit remains in effect to the extent possible; in the event that any part 

of this permit is invalidated, EPA will advise the regulated community as to the effect of such 

invalidation. 

1.11 State Laws

Nothing in this permit shall be construed to preclude the institution of any legal action or relieve 

the permittee from any responsibilities, liabilities, or penalties established pursuant to any 

applicable state law or regulation under authority preserved by section 510 of the CWA. 

1.12 Federal Laws

Nothing in this permit shall be construed to affect, supersede, or relieve the vessel owner or 

operator of any otherwise applicable requirements or prohibitions under other provisions of 

federal law or regulations.

1.13 Standard Permit Conditions

As provided by the introductory text of 40 CFR §122.41 and the regulation at 40 CFR 

§122.43(c), all of the standard permit conditions published in federal regulations at 40 CFR 

§122.41 are hereby incorporated by reference. 

1.14 Electronic Reporting Requirement

All vessel owner operators must submit all NOIs, NOTs, annual reports, Discharge Monitoring 

Reports (DMRs), and other reporting information as appropriate electronically, unless the vessel 

owner/operator meets one of the following exemptions: 

For purposes of the VGP, temporary waivers from electronic reporting may be granted if: 

• EPA has not yet implemented such electronic reporting; 

• If the owner/operator’s headquarters is physically located in a geographic area 

(i.e., zip code or census tract) that is identified as under-served for broadband 

Internet access in the most recent report from the Federal Communications 

Commission and the vessel never travels to any areas with adequate broadband 

Internet access; or

• If the vessel owner/operator has issues regarding available computer access or 

computer capability. 

You may check www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels to determine whether electronic reporting for the 

relevant document has been implemented. If that website indicates that electronic reporting for 

the document to be submitted is not yet available, you do not need to seek a waiver for a paper 

submission. 

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If you wish to obtain waiver for submitting your reports electronically, you must submit a 

request to EPA at the following address: 

EPA NPDES Vessels Team

Attn: Vessel Reporting Waiver Requests

Mail Code 4203M 

1200 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

Washington DC, 20004 

In requesting a waiver from electronic reporting, you must document which exemption you 

believe you meet, and provide evidence supporting these claims and a copy of your completed 

NOI or PARI form (as applicable). A waiver may only be considered granted once you receive 

written confirmation from EPA or its authorized representative.

EPA intends to make any ballast water monitoring information transmitted to the Agency in 

electronic form available to the public in electronic form. 

1.15 Additional Notes 

• All requirements in this permit to comply with statutes and regulations, other than 

CWA section 402 and its implementing regulations, refer to those authorities as 

codified as of the date of Federal Register notice announcing availability of this 

final permit. Furthermore, with respect to references to class society or flag state 

requirements, all references to requirements are to those as of the date of Federal 

Register notice announcing availability of this final permit. 

• All requirements to comply with specified statutes include the requirement to 

comply with any applicable implementing regulations.

• Provisions stating that "EPA recommends" certain actions, or that you "should" 

take certain actions, constitute recommendations by the Agency and thus are not 

mandatory requirements of this permit.

• EPA intends to implement the VGP in accordance with the CWA as well as U.S. 

international legal obligations, including those obligations associated with a 

vessel's right to innocent passage as provided for under customary international 

law.

• EPA notes that vessel masters have the responsibility to ensure the safety and 

stability of the vessel and the safety of the crew and passengers, and nothing in 

this permit is intended to interfere with their fulfillment of that responsibility. 

EPA further notes its regulations at 40 CFR 122.41(m)(4)(A) include a bypass 

provision which would address the situation of a shipboard emergency that 

endangers the safety of the vessel or its crew, specifically the provisions regarding 

the "diversion of waste streams from any portion of the treatment facility" where 

unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal injury, or severe property damage. 

See 40 CFR 122.41(m)(4)(A) and Part 1.13 of this permit. Additionally, EPA has 

provided targeted safety exemptions to VGP permit requirements in Parts 2.2.3, 

2.2.5, 2.2.6, 2.2.13, and 2.2.26 of the permit. 

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2. EFFLUENT LIMITS AND RELATED REQUIREMENTS

In the limits below and throughout this permit, the term “minimize” means reduce and/or 

eliminate to the extent achievable using control measures (including best management practices) 

that are technologically available and economically practicable and achievable in light of best 

marine practice.

You may not add any constituents to any discharge that are not incidental to the normal operation 

of a vessel. 

You may not dilute discharges eligible for coverage under this permit prior to their discharge for 

the purpose of meeting limits set forth in this permit. 

2.1 Technology-Based Effluent Limits and Related Requirements Applicable to all 

Vessels

You are required to meet the following effluent limits, regardless of the type of vessel you own 

or operate.

2.1.1 Material Storage 

For cargoes or onboard materials which might wash overboard or dissolve as a result of contact 

with precipitation or surface water spray, or which may be blown overboard by air currents, you 

must minimize the amount of time these items are exposed to such conditions. Locate storage 

areas on the vessel for such items in covered areas where feasible and consistent with any 

applicable regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard 

is operating that establish specifications for safe transportation, handling, carriage, and storage of 

pollutants (see Part 2.1.5). If water draining from storage areas comes in contact with oily 

materials, except for naturally occurring fish oils from fishing gear stored on deck, you must: 

• Use dry cleanup methods or absorbents to clean up the wastewater; 

• Store the water for onshore disposal; or 

• Run the water through an oily water separator when required by Coast Guard 

regulations, or if not subject to such requirement, use other effective methods to 

comply with Part 2.1.4 of this permit to prevent the discharge of any oils, 

including oily materials, into waters subject to this permit in quantities which may 

be harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 110. This permit does not authorize the 

discharge of any oily water which might otherwise be inconsistent with 

requirements found in the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships or under the 

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973 as 

modified by the protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78). 

2.1.2 Toxic and Hazardous Materials 

Where consistent with vessel design and construction, you must locate toxic and hazardous 

materials in protected areas of the vessel to minimize exposure to ocean spray and precipitation, 

unless the Master determines this would interfere with essential vessel operations or safety of the 

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vessel or doing so would violate any applicable regulations promulgated by the Secretary of the 

Department in which the Coast Guard is operating that establish specifications for safe 

transportation, handling, carriage, and storage of pollutants (see Part 2.1.5). Any discharge made 

for the foregoing reasons must be documented consistent with Part 4.2. You must ensure that 

toxic and hazardous materials are in appropriate sealed containers constructed of a suitable 

material, labeled, and secured. Containers must not be overfilled and incompatible wastes should 

not be mixed. Exposure of containers to ocean spray or precipitation must be minimized. 

Jettisoning of containers holding toxic or hazardous material is not authorized by this permit. 

2.1.3 Fuel Spills/Overflows

Fuel spills or overflows must not result in a discharge of oil in quantities that may be harmful, 

pursuant to 40 CFR Part 110. You must conduct all fueling operations using control measures 

and practices designed to minimize spills and overflows and ensure prompt containment and 

cleanup if they occur. Vessel operators must not overfill fuel tanks. For vessels with 

interconnected fuel tanks, fueling must be conducted in a manner that prevents overfilling and 

release from the system to the environment.

Vessels with air vents from fuel tanks must use spill containment or other methods to prevent or 

contain any fuel or oil spills. Large-scale fuel spills or overflows are not incidental to the normal 

operation of the vessel and are not authorized by this permit. 

The following requirements apply to fueling of auxiliary vessels such as lifeboats, tenders or 

rescue boats deployed from “host” vessels subject to this permit: 

• While fueling, examine the surrounding water for the presence of a visible sheen. 

If a visible sheen is observed, as a result of your fueling, it must be cleaned up 

immediately.

• It is important to know the capacity of the fuel tanks before you begin fueling in 

order to prevent unintentionally overfilling the tank.

• Prevent overfilling and do not top off your fuel tanks. 

• When possible, fill fuel tanks while boat is on shore or recovered from the water. 

• When possible, fill portable tanks on shore or on the host vessel, not on the 

auxiliary vessel. 

• Use an oil absorbent material or other appropriate device while fueling the 

auxiliary vessel to catch drips from the vent overflow and fuel intake. 

• Regularly inspect the fuel and hydraulic systems for any damage or leaks. 

Owner/operators shall ensure that all crew responsible for conducting fueling operations are 

trained in methods to minimize spills caused by human error and/or the improper use of 

equipment. 

2.1.4 Discharges of Oil Including Oily Mixtures

All discharges of oil, including oily mixtures, from ships subject to Annex I of the International 

Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships as implemented by the Act to Prevent 

Pollution from Ships and U.S. Coast Guard regulations found in 33 CFR §151.09 (hereinafter 

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referred to as “MARPOL vessels”) must have concentrations of oil less than 15 parts per million 

(ppm) (as measured by EPA Method 1664 or other appropriate method for determination of oil 

content as accepted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) (e.g. ISO Method 9377-2) 

or U.S. Coast Guard) before discharge. All MARPOL vessels must have a current International 

Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP) issued in accordance with 33 CFR §§151.19 or 

151.21. All other discharges of oil including oily mixtures must not contain oil in quantities that 

may be harmful, pursuant to 40 CFR Part 110. 

2.1.5 Compliance with Other Statutes and Regulations

As required by 40 CFR §122.44(p), you must comply with any applicable regulations 

promulgated by the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating that 

establish specifications for safe transportation, handling, carriage, and storage of pollutants. 

Any discharge from your vessel must comply with sections 311 (33 USC 1321) of the CWA, the 

Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS 33 USC §§1905-1915), the National Marine 

Sanctuaries Act, (16 USC 1431 et seq.) and implementing regulations found at 15 CFR Part 922 

and 50 CFR Part 404, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA, 7 USC 

§136 et seq.), and the Oil Pollution Act (OPA of 1990, 33 USC §2701-2720). 

The US Code of Federal Regulations containing these provisions can be found at: 

www.gpoaccess.gov/ecfr/. 

2.1.6 General Training

All owner/operators of vessels must ensure that the master, operator, person-in-charge, and crew 

members who actively take part in the management of incidental discharges or who may affect 

those discharges are adequately trained in implementing the terms of this permit. In addition, all 

owner/operators of vessels must ensure appropriate vessel personnel be trained in the procedures 

for responding to fuel spills and overflows, including notification of appropriate vessel 

personnel, emergency response agencies, and regulatory agencies. This training need not be 

formal or accredited courses; however, it is the vessel owners/operators’ responsibility to ensure 

these staff are given the necessary information to conduct shipboard activities in accordance with 

the terms of this permit.

Vessel owners/operators must also meet all training-related recordkeeping requirements of Part 

4.2 of this permit. 

2.2 Effluent Limits and Related Requirements for Specific Discharge Categories

The requirements in Part 2.2 constitute technology-based effluent limitations and related 

requirements except where it is specifically noted that the requirements constitute water quality 

based limits.

2.2.1 Deck Washdown and Runoff and Above Water Line Hull Cleaning 

Vessel owner/operators must minimize the introduction of on-deck debris, garbage, residue, and 

spill into deck washdown and runoff discharges. Before deck washdowns occur, you must broom 

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clean (or equivalent) exposed decks or use comparable management measures and remove all 

existing debris. When required by their class societies (e.g., oil tankers), their flag 

Administrations, or the U.S. Coast Guard, vessels must be fitted with and use perimeter spill rails 

and scuppers to collect the runoff for treatment. Where feasible, machinery on deck must have 

coamings or drip pans where necessary to collect any oily discharge that may leak from 

machinery and prevent spills. The drip pans must be drained to a waste container for proper 

disposal and/or periodically wiped and cleaned. Additionally, to reduce the risk of any leakage or 

spills of harmful oils into the aquatic environment, EPA strongly encourages the use of 

environmentally acceptable lubricants in all above deck equipment. The presence of floating 

solids, visible foam, halogenated phenol compounds, and dispersants, or surfactants in deck 

washdowns must be minimized. Vessel owners/operators must minimize deck washdowns while 

in port. 

Vessel owners/operators must maintain their topside surface and other above water line portions 

of the vessel to minimize the discharge of rust (and other corrosion by-products), cleaning 

compounds, paint chips, non-skid material fragments, and other materials associated with 

exterior topside surface preservation. Furthermore, vessel owners/operators must minimize 

residual paint droplets from entering waters subject to this permit whenever they are conducting 

maintenance painting. Possible minimization techniques include, but are not limited to, avoiding 

paint spraying in windy conditions or avoiding overapplication of paint. This permit does not 

authorize the disposal of unused paint into waters subject to this permit. 

If deck washdowns or above water line hull cleaning will result in a discharge, they must be 

conducted with “minimally-toxic” and “phosphate free” cleaners and detergents as defined in 

Appendix A of this permit. Furthermore, cleaners and detergents should not be caustic and must 

be biodegradable. 

2.2.2 Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent 

All bilgewater discharges must be in compliance with the regulations in 40 CFR Parts 110 

(Discharge of Oil), 116 (Designation of Hazardous Substances), and 117 (Determination of 

Reportable Quantities for Hazardous Substances) and 33 CFR §151.10 (Control of Oil 

Discharges). In addition: 

• Vessel operators may not use dispersants, detergents, emulsifiers, chemicals, or 

other substances that remove the appearance of a visible sheen1 in their bilgewater 

discharges. This requirement does not prohibit the use of these materials in 

machinery spaces for the purposes of maintaining or cleaning equipment. 

• Except in the case of flocculants or other required additives (excluding any 

dispersants or surfactants) used to enhance oil/water separation during processing 

(after bilgewater has been removed from the bilge), vessel operators may not add 

substances that drain to the bilgewater that are not produced in the normal 

1 40 CFR §110.4 states that: “addition of dispersants or emulsifiers to oil to be discharged that would circumvent 

the provisions of this part is prohibited.” 33 CFR §151.10 (g) states that: “No discharge into the sea shall contain 

chemicals or other substances introduced for the purpose of circumventing the conditions of discharge specified in 

this regulation.

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operation of a vessel. The use of oil solidifiers, flocculants, or other required 

additives are allowed only as part of an oil water separation system provided they 

do not alter the chemical make-up of the oils being discharged and any discharge 

of such materials into waters subject to this permit must be minimized. Routine 

cleaning and maintenance activities associated with vessel equipment and 

structures are considered to be normal operation of a vessel if those practices fall 

within normal marine practice.

• All vessels must minimize the discharge of bilgewater into waters subject to this 

permit. This can be done by minimizing the production of bilgewater, disposing 

of bilgewater on shore where adequate facilities exist, or discharging into waters 

not subject to this permit (i.e., more than 3 nautical miles [nm] from shore) for 

vessels that regularly travel into such waters. Though not regulated under this 

permit, EPA notes that discharges of bilgewater outside waters subject to this 

permit (i.e., more than 3 nm from shore) are regulated under Annex I of the 

International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships as 

implemented by the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and U.S. Coast Guard 

regulations found in 33 CFR part 151. 

• Vessels greater than 400 gross tons shall not discharge untreated oily bilgewater 

(i.e., bilgewater not treated with an onboard separator or bilgewater with a 

concentration of oil greater than 15 ppm) into waters subject to this permit.

• Vessels greater than 400 gross tons that regularly sail outside the territorial sea (at 

least once per month) shall not discharge treated bilgewater within 1 nm of shore 

if technologically feasible (e.g., holding would not impact safety and stability, 

would not contaminate other holds or cargo, or would not interfere with essential 

operations of the vessel). Any discharge which is not technologically feasible to 

avoid must be documented as part of the requirements in Part 4.2 and reported to 

EPA as part of the vessel’s annual report. 

• Vessels greater than 400 gross tons shall not discharge treated bilgewater into 

waters referenced in Appendix G unless the discharge is necessary to maintain the 

safety and stability of the ship. Any discharge of bilgewater into these waters 

must be documented as part of the recordkeeping requirements in Part 4.2 and 

reported to EPA as part of the vessel’s annual report. 

• For vessels greater than 400 gross tons that regularly sail outside the territorial sea 

(at least once per month), if treated bilgewater is discharged into waters subject to 

this permit, it must be discharged when the vessel is underway (sailing at speeds 

greater than 6 knots), unless doing so would threaten the safety and stability of the 

ship. EPA notes that vessel operators may also choose to dispose of bilgewater on 

shore where adequate facilities exist. Any discharge which is made for safety 

reasons must be documented as part of the requirements in Part 4.2 and reported 

to EPA as part of the vessel’s annual report. 

2.2.2.1 Bilgewater Monitoring

“New Build” vessels built after December 19, 2013 greater than 400 gross tons that may 

discharge bilgewater into waters subject to this permit must monitor (i.e., sample and analyze) 

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their bilgewater effluent at least once a year for oil and grease content. That monitoring can be 

conducted as part of the vessel’s annual survey. 

To demonstrate treatment equipment maintenance and compliance with this permit, the 

bilgewater sample must be analyzed for oil by either Method ISO 9377-2 (2000) Water Quality–

Determination of Hydrocarbon Oil Index–Part 2: Method Using Solvent Extraction and Gas 

Chromatography (incorporation by reference, see 46 CFR §162.050–4) or EPA Method 1664. 

At the time of sample collection, the reading on the oil content meter (OCM) must be recorded 

such that the oil and grease concentration measured by the laboratory can be compared to the 

OCM. 

If your analytical results show oil and grease concentrations of less than 5 ppm for two 

consecutive years, you need not sample and analyze subsequent years of permit coverage if: 

• Your vessel uses an oily water separator capable of meeting a 5 ppm oil and 

grease limit, or you use an alarm which prevents the discharge of oil and grease 

above 5 ppm whenever you discharge in waters subject to this permit, 

• You calibrate your OCM at least annually (calibrations during a vessel survey 

meet this requirement), and 

• Your OCM never reads above 5 ppm during discharges into waters subject to this 

permit. If this information is recorded in the oil record book, you need not record 

these data in other recordkeeping documentation. 

Records of monitoring must be retained onboard for at least 3 years in the vessel’s 

recordkeeping documentation and must include: 

• The date, exact place, and time of sampling or measurements; 

• The individual(s) who performed the sampling or measurements; 

• The individual(s) who performed the analyses and any meter recalibration; 

• The techniques or methods used for sample analyses; 

• The results of such analyses and OCM readings. 

2.2.2.2 Monitoring Reporting 

For those vessels for which monitoring must be conducted, analytical and corresponding 

OCM monitoring data must be submitted at least once per calendar year no later than February 

28 of the year after the data are collected. Additionally, if you have met the requirements in part 

2.2.2.1 to waive analytical monitoring after two years, you must note your waiver qualifications 

on your report. Data may be submitted as part of the vessel’s annual report (Appendix H) on the 

VGP bilgewater DMR. 

2.2.3 Ballast Water

All discharges of ballast water must comply with the requirements in this permit as described 

below. Additionally, owner/operators of all vessels subject to coverage under this permit which 

are equipped with Ballast Tanks must comply with any additional BMPs in this section. 

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In addition, as a condition of this permit, all discharges of ballast water must also comply with 

applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations found in 33 CFR Part 151. 

All discharges of ballast water may not contain oil, noxious liquid substances (NLSs), or 

hazardous substances in a manner prohibited by U.S. laws, including section 311 of the Clean 

Water Act. 

2.2.3.1 Training

All owner/operators of vessels equipped with ballast water tanks must train the master, operator, 

person-in-charge, and crew members who actively take part in the management of the discharge 

or who may affect the discharge, on the application of ballast water and sediment management 

and treatment procedures. As part of Ballast Water Management Plans under 2.2.3.2, a standalone training plan, or other recordkeeping documentation, owner/operators must maintain a 

written training plan describing the training to be provided and a record of the date of training 

provided to each person trained. Persons required to be trained must be trained promptly upon 

installation of treatment technology and in the event of a significant change in ballast water 

treatment practices or technology. 

2.2.3.2 Ballast Water Management Plans 

All owner/operators of vessels equipped with ballast water tanks must maintain a ballast water 

management plan that has been developed specifically for the vessel that will ensure that those 

responsible for the plan’s implementation understand and follow the vessel’s ballast water 

management strategy. Owner/operators must make that plan available upon request to EPA or its 

authorized representative. Vessel owner/operators must assure that the master and crew members 

who actively take part in the management of the discharge or who may affect the discharge 

understand and follow the management strategy laid out in the plan. 

At a minimum, all vessels must have a plan which outlines how they will meet the requirements 

of Part 2.2.3.3 of this permit. The plan must also include how vessels will comply with training 

requirements of 2.2.3.1 and meet all requirements in Parts 2.2.3.3 through 2.2.3.8, as applicable.

EPA notes that a Ballast Water Management Plan is also required by the United States Coast 

Guard by 33 CFR Part 151. Provided owner/operators meet the requirements discussed above, 

EPA expects that vessels will need one ballast water management plan to meet both EPA and 

USCG requirements.

2.2.3.3 Mandatory Ballast Water Management Practices: Management measures 

required of all vessel owner/operators

Masters, owners, operators, or persons-in-charge of all vessels equipped with ballast water tanks 

that operate in waters of the U.S. must: 

• Avoid the discharge or uptake of ballast water in areas / into waters subject to this 

permit within, or that may directly affect, marine sanctuaries, marine preserves, 

marine parks, or coral reefs or other waters listed in Appendix G waters. 

• Minimize or avoid uptake of ballast water in the following areas and situations: 

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— Areas known to have infestations or populations of harmful organisms and 

pathogens (e.g., toxic algal blooms). 

— Areas near sewage outfalls. 

— Areas near dredging operations. 

— Areas where tidal flushing is known to be poor or times when a tidal 

stream is known to be turbid. 

— In darkness, when bottom-dwelling organisms may rise up in the water 

column. 

— Where propellers may stir up the sediment. 

— Areas with pods of whales, convergence zones, and boundaries of major 

currents 

• Clean ballast tanks regularly to remove sediments in mid-ocean (when not 

otherwise prohibited by applicable law) or under controlled arrangements in port, 

or at drydock. 

• No discharge of sediments from cleaning of ballast tanks is authorized in waters 

subject to this permit.

• Where feasible, utilize the high sea suction when the clearance is less than 5 

meters (approximately 15 feet) to the lower edge of the seachest or the vessel is 

dockside to reduce sediment intake. 

• When feasible and safe, you must use your ballast water pumps instead of gravity 

draining to empty your ballast water tanks, unless you meet the treatment limits 

found in Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit. 

• Minimize the discharge of ballast water essential for vessel operations while in 

the waters subject to this permit.

Suggested control measures to minimize the discharge of ballast water include, but are not 

limited to, transferring ballast water between tanks within the vessel in lieu of ballast water 

discharge. Another option is to use public water supply water for ballast or, for vessels not 

subject to the numeric limits in Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit, use water from a potable water 

generator as ballast. EPA notes that vessels not subject to the numeric limits in Part 2.2.3.5 of 

this permit should endeavor to take all reasonable steps to minimize or eliminate the discharge of 

untreated ballast water.

2.2.3.4 Mandatory Ballast Water Management Practices for “Lakers” 

“Lakers” must meet the following additional ballast water management requirements:

• Each owner/operator must perform annual inspections on their vessel to assess 

sediment accumulations. Removal of sediment, if necessary, must be carried out. 

Each vessel owner/operator must develop sediment removal policies as part of the 

Ballast Water Management Plan. Records of sediment removal and disposal 

(including facility name and location and all invoices) shall be kept onboard the 

vessel. EPA notes the discharge of sediments from cleaning of ballast tanks is not 

authorized in waters subject to this permit (see Part 2.2.3.3 of this permit).

• When practical and safe, vessels must minimize the ballast water taken up at 

dockside. This will typically mean limiting uptake to the amount of ballast water 

required to safely depart the dock and then complete ballasting in deeper water.

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• The vessel sea chest screen is the first line of defense in keeping large living 

organisms out of the vessel ballast water tanks. Owner/operators of Laker vessels 

must perform annual inspections of their sea chest screens to assure that they are 

fully intact. The inspection must assure that there is no deterioration which has 

resulted in wider openings or holes in the screen. If the screen has deteriorated 

such that there are wider openings than the screen design, the vessel owner 

operator must repair or replace the screen. Any repairs must be of sufficient 

quality that they are expected to last at least one year.

If a Laker meets the permit limits found in Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit, the vessel owner/operator 

is not required to conduct the additional management measures found in Part 2.2.3.4, but must 

still comply with Part 2.2.3.3. 

2.2.3.5 Ballast Water Numeric Discharge Limitations

Owners/operator must meet the following ballast water discharge limits (expressed as 

instantaneous maximum) consistent with the schedule found in Part 2.2.3.5.2, unless you are 

excluded from these requirements by Parts 2.2.3.5.3 or 2.2.3.8 of this permit:

1. For organisms greater than or equal to 50 micrometers in minimum dimension: 

discharge must include fewer than 10 living organisms per cubic meter of ballast 

water.

2. For organisms less than 50 micrometers and greater than or equal to 10 

micrometers: discharge must include fewer than 10 living organisms per milliliter 

(mL) of ballast water.

3. Indicator microorganisms must not exceed: 

(i) For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): a 

concentration of less than 1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 mL. 

(ii) For Escherichia coli: a concentration of fewer than 250 cfu per 100 mL. 

(iii) For intestinal enterococci: a concentration of fewer than 100 cfu per 100 

mL.

These limits may be met by using one of the ballast water management measures in Parts 

2.2.3.5.1.1, 2.2.3.5.1.2, 2.2.3.5.1.3, or 2.2.3.5.1.4. 

Note: EPA will continue to explore new technologies with industry and states, and when 

warranted, will make this numeric limit more stringent in the future (see discussion in section 

4.4.3.5.1 of the fact sheet). Additionally, EPA encourages and anticipates, as part of this 

process, that states will continue to work with industry to test and provide opportunities for new 

technologies. 

2.2.3.5.1 Ballast Water Management Measures 

In addition to the other requirements of this permit, owner/operators of vessels subject to the 

numeric discharge limits in Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit must meet those limits. Vessel 

owner/operators may use one of the four following ballast water management methods to meet 

the numeric discharge limits in Part 2.2.3.5: 

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2.2.3.5.1.1 Ballast Water Management using a Ballast Water Treatment System 

Vessel owner/operators utilizing a ballast water treatment system (BWTS) must use a system 

which has been shown to be effective by testing conducted by an independent third party 

laboratory, test facility or test organization. A system that has been type approved by the U.S. 

Coast Guard under 46 CFR Part 162.060 or received “Alternative Management System” 

designation by the U.S. Coast Guard under 33 CFR 151.2026 will be deemed to meet this 

“shown to be effective” provision. Once the effluent limits in Part 2.2.3.5 become applicable to a 

vessel (see part 2.2.3.5.2 for applicability timeframes for specified categories of vessels), 

owners/operators of vessels utilizing a ballast water treatment system to meet the requirements of 

Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit must meet those limits as an instantaneous maximum. 

Additionally, following installation of a BWTS, the master, owner, operator, agent, or person in 

charge of the vessel must maintain the BWTS in accordance with all manufacturer specifications. 

Furthermore, all treatment must be conducted in accordance with the BWTS manufacturer’s 

instructions. The BWTS must be used prior to any discharge of ballast water to waters of the 

U.S, either at uptake, in tank, or during discharge according to the treatment system 

manufacturer’s instructions. EPA notes that compliance with these provisions does not ensure 

compliance with applicable Coast Guard regulations found in 33 CFR Part 151. 

2.2.3.5.1.1.1 Monitoring From Vessels Using Ballast Water Treatment Systems

The monitoring requirements in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1 apply to ballast water discharges from vessels 

employing ballast water treatment systems that are used to achieve the effluent limitations of Part 

2.2.3.5. The monitoring is divided into three components. The first, in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.2, is 

required of all vessels and generally requires monitoring equipment performance to assure the 

system is fully functional. Vessels conducting this monitoring also must adequately calibrate 

their equipment as required in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.3. The second component, in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.4

requires monitoring from all ballast water systems for selected biological indicators. The third 

component, in part 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 requires monitoring of the ballast water discharge itself for 

biocides and residuals to assure compliance with the effluent limitations established in part 

2.2.3.5 of the permit, as applicable. 

2.2.3.5.1.1.2 Ballast Water System Functionality Monitoring

Ballast water treatment systems use physical and/or chemical processes, or a combination 

thereof, to achieve reductions in living organisms. The use of physical/chemical indicators of 

treatment performance verifies that the ballast water treatment system is operating according to 

the manufacturers’ operating specifications. To assess the BWTS functionality, monitoring 

indicators of the BWTS functionality is required at least once per month for specific parameters 

that are applicable to your system. The required parameters to be monitored, with appropriate 

monitoring approaches are contained in Appendix J. For example, if your system uses a filter 

and chlorine dioxide, you must meet the requirements for systems using both filters and chlorine 

dioxide. If your system uses cavitation, UV, and hypochlorite generation, you must monitor 

conditions for all three treatment units. EPA expects that most ballast water treatment systems 

will make use of at least two physical and/or chemical processes. 

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Final 2013 VGP

Most ballast water treatment systems have control and self diagnostic equipment such as sensors 

that continuously measure treatment parameters to verify performance. The metrics to be 

monitored are based on common approaches used in ballast water treatment systems. As new 

approaches become commonly available, EPA will develop new monitoring parameters as 

appropriate. 

2.2.3.5.1.1.3 Ballast Water monitoring equipment calibration

At a minimum, all applicable sensors and other equipment must be calibrated annually. 

Additionally, all applicable sensors and other control equipment must be calibrated no less 

frequently than recommended by the sensor or other equipment manufacturer, or by the ballast 

water treatment system manufacturer or when warranted based on device drift from a standard or 

calibrated setting. EPA expects many sensor types (e.g., pH probes, TRO sensors, turbidity 

sensors) will need to be calibrated on a more frequent basis. Calibration of the sensors and 

equipment can be conducted on-board the vessel or they can be removed and shipped to the 

manufacturer or other vendor for calibration. During the period when the sensors are not 

installed (or otherwise inoperable thus significantly compromising the performance of the ballast 

water treatment system), the vessel must not discharge ballast water.

2.2.3.5.1.1.4 Effluent Biological Organism Monitoring

Once a ballast water treatment system is required to be installed onboard a vessel (see part 

2.2.3.5.2 for applicability and timeframe for installation of such vessels), any ballast water 

discharges from such vessels will be subject to the effluent limitations in Part 2.2.3.5 of this 

permit. To ascertain compliance with the effluent limitation in that section, EPA is establishing 

the following biological indicator compliance monitoring. These samples can be taken by 

collecting a small volume sample from the ballast water discharge (consistent with the sampling 

guidance found in EPA’s Generic Protocol for the Verification of Ballast Water Treatment 

Technology) and analyzing the sample for concentrations of certain biological indicator 

parameters. Analysis of concentrations of indicator organisms must include monitoring for the 

parameters in Table 2 below utilizing the methods in that table, or other EPA Part 136 methods 

as applicable. 

Table 2: Indicator Organism Monitoring Parameters

Measurement Instrument 

or Analysis

EPA 

Method

Standard 

Method

ASTM ISO Other

Total 

heterotrophic 

bacteria

Plate counts SM 9215 ASTM 

D5465

ISO 

6222:1999

E. coli Selective 

substrate 

EPA Method 

1103.1 and 

1603

SM 9223B ASTM

D5392 – 93

ISO 9308-

1:2000

Colilert®

Enterococci Selective 

substrate

EPA Method 

1106.1 and 

1600

SM 9230C ASTM 

D5259 – 

92(2006)

ISO 7899-

2:2000

Enterolert®

Biological indicator compliance monitoring sampling of ballast water effluent must be conducted 

2 times during the first year the system is installed or used for vessels with devices for which 

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Final 2013 VGP

high quality data are available. For vessels with high quality data, if sampling results are below 

permit limits for two consecutive events, the vessel owner/operator may reduce monitoring to 

one time per year after the first year. However, if the vessel owner/operator exceeds a permit 

limit on any sampling event, they must return to monitoring two times per year until they have 

two additional results below permit limits. For vessels for which high quality data are not 

available, monitoring must be conducted 4 times per year. For all vessels, one of those samples 

may be conducted as part a vessel’s annual or other survey, and during the first year, one of those 

sampling events may be conducted as part of the installation of the system to ensure it is 

functioning properly. Records of the sampling and testing results must be retained onboard for a 

period of 3 years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2. Each 

sample must be tested independently and the individual results must be reported and not 

averaged. Monitoring must be conducted at least 14 days apart from different discharge events. 

Devices for which high quality data are available means either:

a) any ballast water treatment system type approved by the United States Coast Guard 

under 46 CFR Part 162.060 or granted alternate management system status by the US 

Coast Guard under 33 CFR 151.2026; or 

b) any ballast water treatment system: 

(i) type approved by a foreign administration; 

(ii) for which efficacy testing was conducted by an independent third party testing 

organization, either in accordance with the ETV protocol or in a manner 

consistent with the ETV protocol with respect to QA/QC procedures, the use of 

validated methods including appropriate volumes of representative samples, and 

full description and documentation of test procedures, results and analyses; and

(iii)all Active Substance or Biocide data (e.g., the full data package as submitted to 

the International Maritime Organization for approval) have all been made 

available to the US EPA. 

2.2.3.5.1.1.5 Requirements and Effluent Limitations for BWTS that use Active Substances (e.g., 

biocides) 

2.2.3.5.1.1.5.1 Authorization of Residual Biocides Associated with Ballast Water Treatment 

Systems

Many ballast water treatment systems produce or use biocides as an agent to reduce living 

organisms present in the ballast water tank. In order to be eligible for coverage under this permit, 

any ballast water treatment system must not use any biocide that is a “pesticide” within the 

meaning of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C §136 et seq.) 

unless that biocide has been registered for use in ballast water treatment under such Act. The 

requirement in the preceding sentence does not apply if such biocide is generated solely by the 

use of a “device” on board the same vessel as the ballast water to be treated by the biocide, as the 

term “device” is defined in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. In addition, 

if the ballast water treatment system uses or generates biocides and you will discharge ballast 

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water treated with biocides into waters subject to this permit, you must meet one of the following 

conditions to be eligible for permit coverage. 

The discharge of biocides or residuals may not exceed the following instantaneous maximum 

limits expressed as micrograms per liter (μg/l). 

Table 3: Maximum Ballast Water Effluent Limits for Residual Biocides

Biocide or Residual Limit

(instantaneous maximum)

Chlorine Dioxide 200 μg/l

Chlorine (expressed as Total Residual Oxidizers (TRO as TRC)) 100 μg/l

Ozone (expressed as Total Residual Oxidizers (TRO as TRC)) 100 μg/l

Peracetic Acid 500 μg/l

Hydrogen Peroxide (for systems using Peracetic Acid) 1,000 μg/l

Any other biocides or derivatives may not exceed acute water quality criteria listed in EPA’s 

2009 National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, and any subsequent revision, at the point 

of ballast water discharge. This document can be found at: 

http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/standards/criteria/current/upload/nrwqc-2009.pdf. 

Tables summarizing the subsequent revisions can be found at: 

http://water.epa.gov/scitech/swguidance/standards/criteria/current/. Discharges of biocide 

residuals or derivatives must also meet monitoring requirements under Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.1, and 

reporting and recordkeeping requirements in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.6. 

If the biocide used or produced by your system and its derivatives is not listed in the previous 

table or found in EPA’s National Recommended Water Quality Criteria, you must notify EPA at 

least 120 days in advance of its use and provide any associated aquatic toxicity data for that 

biocide or its derivatives of which you are aware. EPA may impose additional limitations on a 

treatment system-specific basis, or require you to obtain coverage under an individual permit, if 

necessary. EPA may inform the vessel owner/operator of specific requirements. You may also 

seek coverage under an individual NPDES permit pursuant to Part 1.8.2 of this permit. You may 

not discharge the biocide at issue until you receive a response from EPA to your notification. 

2.2.3.5.1.1.5.2 Residual Biocide and Derivative Monitoring 

For vessels subject to Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.1, you must conduct monitoring of the vessel ballast water 

discharge for any residual biocides or derivatives used in the treatment process, in part to 

demonstrate compliance with the conditions in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.5.1. For instance, if chlorine is the 

biocide used in the ballast water treatment, you must test for residual chlorine in the vessel 

ballast water discharge to see if it complies with the standards in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.5.1. 

In order to demonstrate that residual biocides or derivatives are in compliance with this permit, 

that substantial quantities of harmful byproducts are not produced, and provide EPA with needed 

information about system functionality, the vessel operator initially must take samples according 

to the following: 

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Table 4: Monitoring Schedule for Residual Biocides or Derivatives of the Residual 

Biocide

Devices for which high quality 

type approval data are available

Devices for which high quality 

data are not available

Initial Monitoring 3 times in the first 10 discharge 

events (not to exceed a 180 day 

period)

5 times in the first 10 discharge 

events (not to exceed a 180 day 

period)

Maintenance 

monitoring

2 times per year 4 times per year

Devices for which high quality data are available means either:

a) any ballast water treatment system type approved by the United States Coast Guard

under 46 CFR Part 162.060 or granted alternate management system status by the US 

Coast Guard under 33 CFR 151.2026; or 

b) any ballast water treatment system: 

(i) type approved by a foreign administration; 

(ii) for which efficacy testing was conducted by an independent third party testing 

organization, either in accordance with the ETV protocol or in a manner 

consistent with the ETV protocol with respect to QA/QC procedures, the use of 

validated methods including appropriate volumes of representative samples, and 

full description and documentation of test procedures, results and analyses; and

(iii)all Active Substance or Biocide data (e.g., the full data package as submitted to 

the International Maritime Organization for approval) have all been made 

available to the US EPA. 

Each sample must be tested independently and the individual results must be reported and not 

averaged. Samples must be tested as soon as possible after sampling, and may not be held longer 

than recommended for each tested constituent as given in 40 CFR Part 136. Sampling and testing 

shall be conducted using a sufficiently sensitive method according to 40 CFR Part 136 or may 

use an alternate method if allowed in Table 5 below.

Table 5: Residual Biocides and Biocide Derivative Monitoring Requirements

Biocide Analyte Analytical 

Methods

Minimum 

Sample 

Volume

Sample 

Holding 

Time

MDL Effluent 

Limit or 

Action

Limit Type

Alkylamines Alkylamines EPA 

Method 

8360B and 

8270D

25 mL 

(8260B)

14 days 

(8260B)

Varies by 

compound 

(8260D); 

10 μg/L 

(8270C)

Report NA

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Chlorine or 

Chlorine 

dioxide

Chlorine dioxide EPA 

Method 

327.0-1; 

SM 4500 

ClO2 E 

16 mL 

(327.0-1)

4 hours 

(327.0-

1); As 

soon as 

possible 

(SM)

Varies 

(327.0-1); 

10 to 100 

mg/L (SM)

200 μg/L Instantaneous 

Maximum

Total Residual 

Oxidizers (TRO) 

as Cl2

SM 4500-

Cl G; ISO 

7393/2

50 mL 15 

minutes

10 μg/L, 

under ideal 

conditions

100 μg/L Instantaneous 

Maximum

Chlorite* EPA 

Method 

300.1

250 mL 14 days Varies Report NA

Chlorate* EPA 

Method 

300.1

250 mL 28 days Varies Report NA

Total 

trihalomethanesa* 

EPA 

Method 

8260

25 mL 14 days Varies Report NA

Haloacetic acidsb* EPA 

Method 

552.2 

40 mL 14 days Varies by 

compound

Report NA

Menadione Menadione NA Report NA

Ozone Total Residual 

Oxidizers (TRO) 

as Cl2

SM 4500-

Cl G; ISO 

7393/2

50 mL 15 

minutes

10 μg/L, 

under ideal 

conditions

100 μg/L NA

Bromate* EPA 

Method 

317 ; EPA 

Method 

300.1; 

ASTM D 

6581-00

250 mL 28 days 

(317; 

300.1)

Varies 

(317; 

300.1)

Report NA

Bromoform* EPA 

Method 

8260

25 mL 14 days Varies Report NA

Total 

trihalomethanesa* 

EPA 

Method 

8260

25 mL 14 days Varies Report NA

Haloacetic acidsb* EPA 

Method 

552.2 

40 mL 14 days Varies by 

compound

Report NA

Peracetic Acid pH SM 4500 

H+

25 mL As soon 

as 

possible

6.5 – 9 

s.u.

Instantaneous 

Maximum

Peracetic acid Photometri

c analysis 

(Pinkernell, 

1997; EMD 

Chemicals, 

2011; 

CHEMetric

s 2010)

25 mL As soon 

as 

possible

500 μg/L Report NA

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Hydrogen 

peroxide/

Titimetric

analysis 

(JIS K 

1463:2007; 

EMD 

Chemicals, 

2011; 

CHEMetric

s 2010))

25 mL As soon 

as 

possible

500 μg/L Report NA

* Potential byproduct or derivative

a. Total trihalomethanes is the sum of the concentrations of chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and 

bromoform.

b. Haloacetic acids is the sum of the concentrations of mono-, di-, and trichloroacetic acids and mono- and dibromoacetic 

acids.

ISO: International Organization for Standardization

SM: Standard Methods

MDL: Method detection limit

NA: Not applicable

2.2.3.5.1.1.6 Ballast Water Treatment System Recordkeeping and Reporting

Records of sampling and testing results required under Part 2.2.3.5.1.1 must be retained onboard 

for a period of three years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation. Vessels must also 

submit the testing results to EPA as part of the vessel’s annual report (Appendix H) on the VGP 

ballast water DMR. 

Records of monitoring information shall include: 

• The ballast water treatment system used, any type approval certificate, and 

records of whether the system meets the high quality data criteria as stated in part 

2.2.3.5.1.1.4 (a) or (b); 

• The individual(s) who performed the sampling, measurements, and/or inspections; 

• The date(s) analyses and/or inspections were performed;

• Any sensor or other control equipment calibration and functional tests conducted 

during the inspection as applicable; 

• The techniques or methods used for any sensor or other control equipment 

calibration and functional tests as applicable;

• The date and time of all monitoring results (monitoring in Parts 2.2.3.5.1.1.2, 

2.2.3.5.1.1.4, and 2.2.3.5.1.1.5, as applicable);

• The analytical techniques or methods used as applicable, and 

• The results of such analyses.

You must submit your monitoring data as part of your annual report. For systems already in use 

as of the effective date of this permit, initial sampling data must be submitted with the first 

annual report. For systems which are not already in use as of the effective date of this permit, 

initial sampling data must be submitted on the annual report following the calendar year of the 

system’s first use. Data must be submitted on the Ballast Water Treatment System Report form 

attached to the annual report available in Appendix H of this permit or electronically submitted 

to EPA: the system is scheduled to be available at www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI. 

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2.2.3.5.1.2 Onshore Treatment of Ballast Water

For those vessels whose design and construction safely allows for the transfer of ballast water to 

shore, if compatible onshore treatment for ballast water is available, the vessel owner/operator 

may use onshore treatment for any ballast water discharges to meet the requirements of 2.2.3.5. 

EPA notes that the lack of availability of adequate reception facilities is not an acceptable reason 

to discharge ballast water which does not meet the treatment requirements found in Part 

2.2.3.5.1.1 into waters subject to this permit, and such discharges would therefore constitute a 

permit violation.

Any vessel owner/operator utilizing onshore treatment must ensure that all piping and supporting 

infrastructure up to the last manifold or valve immediately before the dock manifold connection 

of the receiving facility or similar appurtenance on a reception vessel are fully free from any 

leaks or other avenues whereby untreated ballast may be discharged into waters subject to this 

permit. 

EPA notes that transferring ballast water to a treatment barge for eventual treatment and 

discharge could constitute “on-shore treatment” for purposes of Part 2.2.3.5.1.2 The discharge 

of treated ballast water (transferred from other vessels) from a treatment barge is not eligible for 

coverage under the VGP as this is a discharge from an industrial operation, not a discharge 

incidental to the normal operation of a vessel. Instead, these vessels must apply for individual 

NPDES permit coverage from the appropriate NPDES permitting authority, generally the State 

in which they are operating. 

2.2.3.5.1.3 Use of Public Water Supply Water 

Vessels may meet the requirements of Part 2.2.3.5 by using only water from a U.S. public water 

system or Canadian drinking water system (both referred to as “PWS” in this permit), as defined 

in a) 40 CFR 141.2 and subject to the requirements of 40 CFR parts 141 and 143 or b) Health 

Canada’s “Guidelines on Canadian Drinking Water Quality,” as ballast water. Vessels using 

water from a PWS as ballast must maintain a record of which PWS they received the water and a 

receipt, invoice, or other documentation from the PWS indicating that water came from that 

system. 

To avoid contamination of the ballast water tank, vessels using PWS water in any given tank as 

ballast must have:

• Previously cleaned the ballast tank (including removing all residual sediments) 

and not subsequently introduced ambient water; 

• Never introduced ambient water to the tank and supply lines 

Vessels utilizing water from a PWS as ballast water must certify in their recordkeeping 

documentation that they have met all the requirements of this section, including maintaining 

certification by the master or NOI certifier that one of the above conditions are met regarding 

contamination. For vessels that use PWS water in some ballast water tanks, but ambient treated 

water as ballast in others, records must clearly indicate which tanks use PWS water as ballast 

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versus those that use ambient treated water (or both), and indicate what measures the vessel 

operator has implemented to avoid cross contamination between tanks. 

In the event a vessel that normally uses PWS water as ballast is forced for purposes of vessel 

safety to take on untreated ballast water from a sea, estuary, lake or river source, such vessel may 

not return to using PWS water until the tanks and supply lines have been cleaned, including 

removal of all residual sediments.

2.2.3.5.1.4 No Discharge of Ballast Water

Vessels may meet the requirements of Part 2.2.3.5 of this permit by not discharging any ballast 

water into waters subject to this permit. EPA notes that any discharge of untreated ballast water, 

including for reasons of unscheduled voyages, loading of unexpected cargo, etc., do not qualify 

as an acceptable reason to discharge untreated ballast water into waters subject to this permit, 

and therefore constitute a permit violation. EPA notes that in the case of a shipboard emergency 

that endangers the safety of the vessel or its crew, ballast water may need to be pumped out 

quickly by bypassing the BWTS. In such cases, the provisions regarding the prohibition of 

bypassing treatment where unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal injury of severe property 

damage may be applicable. See 40 CFR 122.41(m)(4)(A) and Part 1.13 of this permit. 

2.2.3.5.2 Schedule for when Ballast Water Treatment Becomes BAT (and Therefore Required) 

Table 6 describes when BWTS will become the Best Available Technology Economically 

Achievable (BAT). Vessels must meet the requirements in Part 2.2.3.5.1 according to the 

schedule below in Table 6. 

Table 6: Ballast Water Treatment to BAT Schedule

Vessel’s

Ballast Water

Capacity

Date Constructed Vessel’s Compliance

Date

New

vessels After December 1, 2013 On delivery 

Existing

vessels

Less than 1500 m3 Before December 1, 2013 First scheduled drydocking after 

January 1, 2016

1500-5000 m3 Before December 1, 2013 First scheduled drydocking after 

January 1, 2014

Greater than 5000 m3 Before December 1, 2013 First scheduled drydocking after 

January 1, 2016

2.2.3.5.3 Vessels Not Required to Meet Part 2.2.3.5 Treatment Standards 

The following vessel types are not required to meet Part 2.2.3.5 ballast water management 

measures (however, note that these vessels must meet all other requirements of Part 2.2.3 of the 

permit). Additionally, EPA encourages vessels in these categories to use additional management 

measures to reduce the number of living organisms in their ballast water discharges, including 

use of any of the measures found in Part 2.2.3.5, use of potable water generators, or other 

measures to reduce the volume of their ballast water discharges:

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2.2.3.5.3.1 Vessels Engaged in Short-Distance Voyages

Vessels engaged in short distance voyages means vessels that: 

• Operate or take on and discharge ballast water exclusively in one Coast Guard 

Captain of the Port (COTP) Zone, or 

• Vessels which do not travel more than 10 nm and cross no physical barriers or 

obstructions (e.g., locks), whether or not they operate within one U.S. Coast 

Guard COTP zone. 

2.2.3.5.3.2 Unmanned, Unpowered Barges 

Unmanned, unpowered barges such as hopper barges are not required to meet the ballast water 

management measures of Part 2.2.3.5. 

2.2.3.5.3.3 Vessels That Operate Exclusively on the Laurentian Great Lakes (Commonly 

Known as Lakers) Built Before January 1, 2009 

Existing Lakers built before January 1, 2009 confined exclusively to the Laurentian Great Lakes 

(i.e., existing vessels that operates upstream of the waters of the St. Lawrence River west of a 

rhumb line drawn from Cap de Rosiers to West Point, Anticosti Island, and west of a line along 

63 W. longitude from Anticosti Island to the north shore of the St. Lawrence River) are not 

required to meet the requirements of Part 2.2.3.5. 

Lakers built on or after January 1, 2009 must meet the treatment limits found in Part 2.2.3.5 of 

the permit.

2.2.3.5.3.4 Inland and Seagoing Vessels less than 1600 Gross Registered Tons (3000 Gross 

Tons) 

Inland and Seagoing Vessels less than 1600 Gross Registered Tons (3000 Gross Tons) are not 

required to meet the numeric treatment limits in Section 2.2.3.5. Seagoing Vessels are defined in 

33 CFR 151.2005. EPA encourages inland and seagoing vessels in this size class to use alternate 

measures to reduce the number of living organisms in their ballast water discharges. 

2.2.3.6 Interim requirements for vessels not meeting the ballast water management 

measures in Part 2.2.3.5

Vessel owner/operators not subject to the requirements of Part 2.2.3.5 of the permit must meet 

the exchange and flushing requirements of this part as applicable. Ballast water exchange may 

not be used in lieu of meeting the numeric effluent limits in Part 2.2.3.5 of the permit once a 

vessel is required to meet these limits. Conversely, vessel owner/operators meeting the numeric 

effluent limits in Part 2.2.3.5 before they are required to do so by the implementation schedule in 

Part 2.2.3.5.2 are not required to meet the exchange and flushing requirements of Part 2.2.3.6. 

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2.2.3.6.1 Requirements for Oceangoing Voyages While Carrying Ballast Water 

Any vessel that carries ballast water that was taken on in areas less than 200 nautical miles from 

any shore that will subsequently operate beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and more 

than 200 nm from any shore must carry out an exchange of ballast water for any tanks that will 

discharge ballast water into waters subject to this permit unless the vessel meets one of the 

exemptions in Part 2.2.3.6.6. 

This exchange must be conducted in compliance with the following standards prior to 

discharging ballast water into waters subject to this permit:

• The exchange must occur in waters beyond the U.S. EEZ;

• The exchange must occur in an area more than 200 nautical miles from any shore; 

and

• The exchange must be commenced as early in the vessel voyage as possible, as 

long as the vessel is more than 200 nm from any shore. 

2.2.3.6.2 Vessels Carrying Ballast Water Engaged in Pacific Nearshore Voyages 

Unless the vessel meets one of the exemptions in Part 2.2.3.6.6, any vessel engaged in Pacific 

nearshore voyages that carries ballast water that was taken on in areas less than 50 nautical miles 

from any shore must carry out an exchange of ballast water in accordance with this Part before 

discharging from any tanks that carry ballast water into waters subject to this permit if the vessel 

travels through more than one COTP zone as listed in 33 CFR Part 3 or the vessel crosses 

international boundaries. 

Vessels engaged in Pacific nearshore voyages are:

• Vessels engaged in the Pacific coastwise trade and vessels transiting between 

Pacific ports that travel between more than one Captain of the Port Zone, and 

• All other vessels that sail from foreign, non-U.S Pacific, Atlantic (including the 

Caribbean Sea), or Gulf of Mexico ports, which do not sail further than 200 nm 

from any shore, and that discharge or will discharge ballast water into the 

territorial sea or inland waters of Alaska or off the west coast of the continental 

United States.

Ballast water exchange for vessels subject to this part must occur in waters more than 50 nautical 

miles from any shore (US or otherwise), and in waters more than 200 meters deep, prior to 

discharging ballast water into waters subject to this permit. Exchange should occur as far from 

the shore, major estuary and oceanic river plumes, subsurface physical features (e.g. seamounts), 

and known fishery habitats as practicable. Vessels engaged in voyages that take them further 

than 200 nm from any shore and who will remain outside 200 nm for a sufficient period to 

conduct exchange, are not allowed to exchange ballast water between 50 and 200 nm from shore 

to meet the requirements of Part 2.2.3.6.1 (unless the master determines that exchange farther 

than 200 nm from shore would interfere with essential vessel operations or safety of the vessel 

but the master determines that the vessel is able to safely exchange more than 50 nm from shore) 

and instead, must conduct exchange more than 200 nm from shore in accordance with Part 

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2.2.3.6.1 of this permit. Vessels engaged in Pacific Nearshore Voyages who are not outside 200 

nm for a sufficient period to conduct exchange may conduct exchange outside 50 nm (even if 

they voyage beyond 200 nm) to meet the requirements of this part. 

2.2.3.6.3 Vessels with any Ballast Water Tanks that are Empty or have Unpumpable Residual 

Water

For vessels that travel between more than one COTP Zone while undertaking voyages described 

in Part 2.2.3.6.1 and which either reported No Ballast on Board (NOBOB) in accordance with 

Coast Guard regulations or which have any ballast water tank that is empty or contains 

unpumpable residual water, you must follow the applicable requirements in Part 2.2.3.6.1 for 

those tanks with ballast water. EPA notes that when the term “empty” tank is used, the Agency is 

also referring to tanks that contain unpumpable residual water. For those tanks which are empty 

or contain unpumpable residual water, you must either seal the tank so that there is no discharge 

or uptake and subsequent discharge of ballast water within waters subject to this permit or 

conduct saltwater flushing of such tanks in an area 200 nm from any shore prior to the discharge 

or uptake and subsequent discharge of any ballast water to any waters subject to this permit, 

unless you meet one of the exemptions in Part 2.2.3.6.6. For the purposes of Part 2.2.3.6.3, 

saltwater flushing means the addition of mid-ocean water to empty ballast water tanks; the 

mixing of the added water with residual ballast water and sediment through the motion of the 

vessel; and the discharge of the mixed water until loss of suction, such that the resulting residual 

water remaining in the tank has either a salinity greater than or equal to 30 parts per thousand or 

a salinity concentration equal to the ambient salinity of the location where the uptake of the 

added water took place. In order to conduct saltwater flushing, the vessel should take on as much 

mid-ocean water into each tank as is safe (for the vessel and crew).

For all vessel owner/operators subject to this section that contain some empty ballast water tanks 

and some full ballast water tanks, if you elect to seal those empty tanks, you must not allow 

water that will be discharged into waters subject to this permit to commingle with waters from 

the empty tanks if you have not conducted saltwater flushing as specified above. 

2.2.3.6.4 Vessels Engaged in Pacific Nearshore Voyages with Unpumpable Ballast Water and 

Residual Sediment (including NOBOBs) 

Unless the vessel meets one of the exemptions in Part 2.2.3.6.6, any vessel engaged in Pacific 

Nearshore Voyages as defined in Part 2.2.3.6.2 which the owner/operator has reported as having 

No Ballast on Board in accordance with Coast Guard regulations, or which have any ballast 

water tank that is empty or contains unpumpable residual water, must follow the applicable 

requirements in Part 2.2.3.6.2 for those tanks with ballast water and Part 2.2.3.6.4.1 for those 

tanks which are empty or contain unpumpable residual water. 

2.2.3.6.4.1 Nearshore Saltwater Flushing Requirements

For those tanks which are empty or contain unpumpable residual water, you must either seal the 

tank so that there is no discharge or uptake and subsequent discharge of ballast water within 

waters subject to this permit or conduct saltwater flushing of such tanks in an area 50 nm from 

any shore and in waters at least 200 meters deep prior to the discharge or uptake and subsequent 

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discharge of any ballast water to or from any waters subject to this permit. For purposes of Part 

2.2.3.6.4, saltwater flushing means the addition of water from the “coastal exchange zone” to 

empty ballast water tanks; the mixing of the flush water with residual water and sediment 

through the motion of the vessel; and the discharge of the mixed water, such that the resulting 

residual water remaining in the tank has either a salinity greater than or equal to 30 parts per 

thousand or a salinity concentration equal to the ambient salinity of the location where the uptake 

of the added water took place. In order to conduct saltwater flushing, the vessel should take on as 

much coastal exchange zone water into each tank as is safe (for the vessel and crew). 

Vessels engaged in voyages that take them further than 200 nm from any shore and who will 

remain outside 200 nm for a sufficient period to flush ballast water, are not allowed to exchange 

ballast water between 50 and 200 nm from shore to meet the requirements of Part 2.2.3.6.3

(unless the master determines that flushing farther than 200 nm from shore would interfere with 

essential vessel operations or safety of the vessel but the master determines that the vessel is able 

to safely flush more than 50 nm from shore) and instead, must conduct flushing more than 200 

nm from shore in accordance with Part 2.2.3.6.3 of this permit. Vessels engaged in the coastwise 

trade who are not outside 200 nm for a sufficient period to conduct flushing may flush outside 50 

nm (even if they voyage beyond 200 nm) to meet the requirements of this permit. 

For all vessel owner/operators subject to this part that contain some empty ballast water tanks 

and some full ballast water tanks, if you elect to seal those empty tanks, you must not allow 

water from the full tanks to commingle with waters from the empty tanks if it will subsequently 

be discharged into waters subject to this permit. 

2.2.3.6.5 Discharge Prohibitions 

Vessels referenced in Parts 2.2.3.6.1, 2.2.3.6.2, 2.2.3.6.3, and 2.2.3.6.4 may not discharge 

unexchanged or untreated ballast water or sediment in waters subject to this permit referenced in 

Appendix G. These waters include all National Parks and National Marine Sanctuaries. 

2.2.3.6.6 Exemptions 

The operator or master of a vessel may elect not to exchange ballast water (or not conduct 

saltwater flushing if applicable) if the vessel meets one of the following conditions: 

• The master of the vessel determines, and justifies in writing, and documents in the 

log or record book, that it is unsafe to do so, in accordance with the Coast Guard 

Regulations at 33 CFR Part 151. If this exemption is claimed, the vessel operator 

must record the date, location, and reason for the claim in its recordkeeping 

documentation. Furthermore, the vessel owner/operator must report this 

information to EPA as part of its annual report. 

• The master uses an alternative, environmentally sound method of ballast water 

management that has been approved by the Commandant of the Coast Guard prior 

to the vessel's voyage in accordance with 33 C.F.R. Part 151. 

• The master retains all ballast water on board the vessel for the duration of the 

vessel’s voyage in waters subject to this permit.

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• The vessel is not engaged in an international voyage and does not traverse more 

than one U.S. Coast Guard COTP Zone. 

Additionally, except for vessels entering the Great Lakes or into Appendix G waters, a vessel is 

not required to deviate from its voyage, or delay the voyage to conduct ballast water exchange or 

saltwater flushing. 

2.2.3.7 Vessels Entering the Great Lakes

In addition to complying with the requirements of this permit, all vessels that are equipped to 

carry ballast water and enter the Great Lakes must comply with 33 CFR Part 151, Subpart C. 

Vessels that operate outside the EEZ and more than 200 nm from any shore and then enter the 

Great Lakes via the Saint Lawrence Seaway System must also comply with 33 CFR Part 401.30. 

Vessels that are unable, due to weather, equipment failure, or other extraordinary condition, to 

effect a BWE before entering the EEZ prior to entering the Great Lakes, must employ another 

method of ballast water management listed in 33 CFR 151.1510 or otherwise comply with the 

provisions of 33 CFR 151.1515. 

Additionally, vessels utilizing a ballast water treatment system (see Part 2.2.3.5.1.1 of the 

permit) must also conduct ballast water exchange or saltwater flushing (as applicable) in addition 

to treating their ballast water if they meet the following requirements:

• The vessel operates outside the EEZ and more than 200 nm from any shore and 

then enters the Great Lakes via the Saint Lawrence Seaway System, and

• The vessel has taken on ballast water that has a salinity of less than 18 parts per 

thousand from a coastal, estuarine, or freshwater ecosystem within the previous 

month (30 days). 

If a vessel affected by these requirements has not taken on ballast water with a salinity of less 

than 18 parts per thousand in the previous month, the master of the vessel must certify to this 

effect in their ballast water recordkeeping requirements before entering the Great Lakes.

2.2.3.8 Vessels in the U.S. Coast Guard Shipboard Technology Evaluation Program 

(STEP)

Owner/operators of vessels are not required to meet the requirements of Parts 2.2.3.5 (except 

Parts 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 and 2.2.3.5.1.1.6) and 2.2.3.6 of this permit if either:

• The vessel is accepted by the U.S. Coast Guard into the Shipboard Technology 

Evaluation Program (STEP), 

• The technology is operated in accordance with requirements of that program, and 

• The acceptance has not been withdrawn. 

Owner/operators of these vessels are required to meet the requirements of Parts 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 and 

2.2.3.5.1.1.6 of this permit.

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2.2.4 Anti-Fouling Hull Coatings/ Hull Coating Leachate 

• All anti-fouling coatings subject to this permit must meet the requirements of the 

Clean Hull Act of 2010 (33 U.S.C. §§ 3801 et seq.). 

• All anti-fouling hull coatings subject to registration under FIFRA (see 40 CFR 

§152.15) must be registered, sold or distributed, applied, maintained, and 

removed in a manner consistent with applicable requirements on the coatings’ 

FIFRA label. 

• For anti-fouling hull coatings not subject to FIFRA registration (i.e., not produced 

for sale and distribution in the United States), hull coatings must not contain any 

biocides or toxic materials banned for use in the United States (including those on 

EPA’s List of Banned or Severely Restricted Pesticides). This requirement applies 

to all vessels subject to this permit, including those registered and painted outside 

the United States. 

At the time of initial application or scheduled reapplication of anti-fouling coatings, you must 

give consideration, as appropriate for vessel class and vessel operations, to the use of hull 

coatings with the lowest effective biocide release rates, rapidly biodegradable components (once 

separated from the hull surface), or non-biocidal alternatives, such as silicone coatings.

Some ports and harbors are impaired by copper, a biocide used commonly in anti-foulant paints. 

These waters include Shelter Island Yacht Basin in San Diego, California, and waters in and 

around the ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach. A complete list of such waters may be found at 

www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels. When vessels spend considerable time in these waters (defined as 

spending more than 30 days per year), or use these waters as their home port (i.e., house boats, 

ferries or rescue vessels), vessel owners/operators shall consider using anti-fouling coatings that 

rely on a rapidly biodegradable biocide or another alternative rather than copper-based coatings. 

If after consideration of alternative biocides, vessel operators continue to use copper-based 

antifoulant paints, they must document in their recordkeeping documentation how this decision 

was reached.

The discharge of Tributyltin (TBT) from any source (whether used as a biocide or not) or any 

other organotin compound used as a biocide is prohibited by this permit. Therefore, vessel 

owners/operators covered by this permit have a zero discharge standard for TBT (whether or not 

used as a biocide) or any other organotin compound used as a biocide. You may not use an 

antifoulant coating containing TBT or any other organotin compound used as a biocide. If the 

vessel has previously been covered with a hull coating containing TBT (whether or not used as a 

biocide) or any other organotin compound used as a biocide, vessels must be effectively 

overcoated so that no TBT or other organotin leaches from the vessel hull or the TBT or other 

organotin coating must have been removed from the vessel’s hull. 

When used as a catalyst, an organotin compound other than TBT (e.g., dibutyltin) is not to be 

present above 2500 mg total tin per kilogram of dry paint. Furthermore, the coating shall not be 

designed to slough or otherwise peel from the vessel hull. Incidental amounts of coating 

discharged by abrasion during cleaning or after contact with other hard surfaces (e.g., moorings) 

are not prohibited. 

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2.2.5 Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)

Discharges of AFFF are authorized for emergency purposes when needed to ensure the safety 

and security of the vessel and crew.

For vessels that sail outside of the territorial sea more than once per month, maintenance and 

training discharges of fluorinated AFFF are not authorized within waters subject to this permit 

(i.e., any such discharges should be collected and stored for onshore disposal or scheduled when 

the vessel is outside such waters). Discharge volumes associated with regulatory certification and 

inspection must be minimized and a substitute foaming agent (i.e., non-fluorinated) must be used 

if possible within waters subject to this permit.

For vessels that do not leave the territorial sea more than once per month, if vessel maintenance 

and training discharges are required, AFFF must be collected and stored for onshore disposal 

unless the vessel uses a non-fluorinated or alternative foaming agent. Training should be 

conducted as far from shore as is practicable. Maintenance and training discharges are not 

allowed in port. 

For all vessels, AFFF discharges may not occur in or within 1 nm of a water referenced in 

Appendix G unless they are discharged:

• For emergency purposes; 

• By rescue vessels such as fireboats for firefighting purposes; or 

• By vessels owned or under contract to do business exclusively in or within 1 nm 

of those protected areas by the United States government or state or local 

governments. 

If emergency AFFF discharges occur in waters referenced in Appendix G, a written explanation 

must be kept in the ship’s log or other vessel recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 

4.2 of this permit.

2.2.6 Boiler/Economizer Blowdown 

You must minimize the discharge of boiler/economizer blowdown in port if chemicals or other 

additives are used to reduce impurities or prevent scale formation. For vessels greater than 400 

gross tons which leave the territorial sea at least once per week, boiler/economizer blowdown 

may not be discharged in waters subject to this permit, unless: 

• The vessel remains within waters subject to this permit for a longer period than 

the necessary duration between blowdown cycles; 

• The vessel needs to conduct blowdown immediately before entering drydock; or 

• For safety purposes. 

For all vessels, boiler/economizer blowdown may not be discharged in waters referenced in 

Appendix G except for safety purposes. Furthermore, boiler/economizer blowdown should be 

discharged as far from shore as practicable.

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2.2.7 Cathodic Protection 

Cathodic protection must be maintained to prevent the corrosion of the ship’s hull. The discharge 

of zinc, magnesium, and aluminum are expected from properly functioning cathodic protection 

sacrificial electrodes. However, vessel operators must minimize the flaking of large, corroded 

portions of these anodes. Sacrificial anodes must not be used more than necessary to adequately 

prevent corrosion of the vessel’s hull, sea chest, rudder, and other exposed areas of the vessel. 

Vessel operators must appropriately clean and/or replace these anodes during periods of 

maintenance (such as drydocking), so that release of these metals to waters is minimized. 

Furthermore, when feasible, sacrificial anodes should be flush-fitted to the hull, or vessel 

operators must fill the space between the anode and hull backing to remove the potential for 

hotspots for fouling organisms. 

Vessel operators should note that magnesium is less toxic than aluminum and aluminum is less 

toxic than zinc. If vessel operators use sacrificial electrodes, they must select electrode devices 

with metals that are less toxic to the extent technologically feasible and economically practicable 

and achievable. For vessels that spend the majority of their time in freshwater, if aluminum or 

zinc is selected, the vessel owner/operator must document in their recordkeeping documentation 

why the use of magnesium is not appropriate. Likewise, for vessels that spend the majority of 

their time in saltwater, if vessel zinc is selected, the vessel owner/operator must document why 

aluminum is not selected. The documentation requirement is applicable after the vessel’s first 

drydocking after December 19, 2013 (e.g., if the vessel drydocks in 2015, the requirement is 

applicable for that vessel starting in 2015). 

EPA recommends, particularly for new vessels, the use of Impressed Current Cathodic 

Protection (ICCP) in place of or to reduce the use of sacrificial electrodes when technologically 

feasible (e.g., adequate power sources, appropriate for vessel hull size and design), safe, and 

adequate to protect against corrosion. If vessel operators use ICCP, they must maintain dielectric 

shields to prevent flaking. 

2.2.8 Chain Locker Effluent

The anchor chain must be carefully and thoroughly washed down (i.e., more than a cursory rinse) 

as it is being hauled out of the water to remove sediment and marine organisms. In addition, 

chain lockers must be cleaned thoroughly during dry-docking to eliminate accumulated 

sediments and any potential accompanying pollutants. For vessels that regularly sail outside 

waters subject to this permit (at least once per month), if technically feasible, periodically clean, 

rinse, and/or pump out the space beneath the chain locker prior to entering waters subject to this 

permit (preferably mid-ocean) if the anchor has been lowered into any nearshore waters. 

Furthermore, for vessels that leave waters subject to this permit at least once per month, chain 

lockers shall not be rinsed or pumped out in waters subject to this permit, unless not emptying 

them would compromise safety. Such a safety claim must be documented in the vessel’s 

recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2. 

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2.2.9 Controllable Pitch Propeller and Thruster Hydraulic Fluid and Other Oil-toSea Interfaces Including Lubrication Discharges from Paddle Wheel 

Propulsion, Stern Tubes, Thruster Bearings, Stabilizers, Rudder Bearings, 

Azimuth Thrusters, Propulsion Pod Lubrication, and Wire Rope and 

Mechanical Equipment Subject to Immersion

The protective seals on controllable pitch propellers, azimuth thrusters, propulsion pods, rudder 

bearings, or any other oil-to-sea interfaces must be maintained in good operating order to 

minimize the leaking of hydraulic oil or other oils. The vessel owner/operator must not discharge 

oil in quantities that may be harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 110 from any oil-to-sea interface. 

If possible, maintenance activities on controllable pitch propellers, thrusters, and other oil-to-sea 

interfaces should be conducted when a vessel is in drydock. 

Minimize maintenance activities on stern tube seals when a vessel is outside of drydock. If 

maintenance or emergency repair must occur on stern tubes or other oil-to-sea interfaces which 

have a potential to release oil in quantities that may be harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 110, 

appropriate spill response equipment (e.g., oil booms) must be used to contain any oil leakage. 

Operators of the vessel must have ready access to spill response resources to clean up any oil 

spills.

After applying lubrication to wire rope and mechanical equipment subject to immersion, wire 

ropes, and other equipment must be thoroughly wiped down to remove excess lubricant unless 

doing so is deemed unsafe by the Master of the vessel.

All vessels must use an EAL in all oil to sea interfaces, unless technically infeasible. 

“Environmentally acceptable lubricants” means lubricants that are “biodegradable” and 

“minimally-toxic” and are “not bioaccumulative” as defined in Appendix A of this permit. For 

purposes of requirements related to EALs, technically infeasible means that no EAL products are 

approved for use in a given application that meet manufacturer specifications for that equipment, 

products which come pre- lubricated (e.g., wire ropes) have no available alternatives 

manufactured with EALs, products meeting a manufacturers specifications are not available 

within any port in which the vessel calls, or change over and use of an EAL must wait until the 

vessel’s next drydocking.

If a vessel is unable to use an EAL, you must document in your recordkeeping documentation 

consistent with Part 4.2 why you are unable to do so, and must report the use of a nonenvironmentally acceptable lubricant to EPA in your Annual Report. Use of an environmentally 

acceptable lubricant does not authorize the discharge of any lubricant in a quantity that may be 

harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 110.

EPA recommends that all new build vessel operators endeavor to use seawater-based systems for 

their stern tube lubrication to eliminate the discharge of oil from these interfaces to the aquatic 

environment.

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2.2.10 Distillation and Reverse Osmosis Brine

Brine from the distillation system and reverse osmosis reject water shall not contain or come in 

contact with machinery or industrial equipment (other than that necessary for the production of 

potable water), toxic or hazardous materials, or wastes. 

2.2.11 Elevator Pit Effluent

Discharges of untreated elevator pit effluent are not authorized within waters subject to this 

permit except in cases of emergency. Elevator pit effluent may be discharged into waters subject 

to this permit if it is managed with the vessel’s bilgewater and meets all the requirements of Part 

2.2.2 of this permit. Otherwise, it must be treated with an oily-water separator and discharged 

with an oil content below 15 ppm for existing vessels, as measured by EPA Method 1664 or 

other appropriate method for determination of oil content as accepted by the IMO (e.g., ISO 

Method 9377) or U.S. Coast Guard. Emergency discharges must be documented in the ship’s log 

or other vessel recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2. 

2.2.12 Firemain Systems

Discharges from firemain systems are authorized for emergency purposes to ensure the safety 

and security of the vessel and her crew, other emergency situations, and testing and inspections 

of the firemain systems in order to assure its operability in an emergency. Firemain systems may 

be discharged in port for certification, maintenance, and training requirements if the intake 

comes directly from the surrounding waters or potable water supplies and there are no additions 

(e.g., AFFF) to the discharge. Furthermore, firemain systems may be used for deck washdown or 

other secondary uses if the intake comes directly from the surrounding waters or potable water 

supplies and the discharge meets all relevant effluent limitations associated with that activity. 

When feasible, maintenance and training should be conducted outside port and/or outside waters 

subject to this permit. 

The vessel owner/operator shall not discharge firemain systems in waters listed in Appendix G

except in emergency situations or when washing down the anchor chain to comply with anchor 

wash down requirements in Part 2.2.8. 

2.2.13 Freshwater Layup

Minimize the amount of disinfection or biocidal agents used in freshwater layup to the minimum 

required to prevent aquatic growth. 

2.2.14 Gas Turbine Washwater 

Gas turbine washwater must not be directly discharged within waters subject to this permit. 

Where feasible, gas turbine washwater must be prevented from commingling with bilgewater 

that will be discharged in waters subject to this permit, for example by collecting it separately 

and properly disposing of it at an onshore facility. Under no circumstances may oils, including 

oily mixtures, from gas turbine washwater be discharged into waters subject to this permit in 

quantities that may be harmful as determined in accordance with 40 CFR Part 110. 

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2.2.15 Graywater

All vessels must minimize the discharge of graywater while in port. For those vessels that cannot 

store graywater, the owner or operator and their crews must minimize the production of 

graywater in port. Examples of ways to minimize production of graywater include delaying 

laundry, scullery activities, and restricting length of showers while in port, and using high 

efficiency faucets and showerheads. All vessels that have the capacity to store graywater shall 

not discharge it in waters listed in Appendix G. For vessels that cannot store graywater, vessel 

operators must minimize the production of graywater while in waters listed in Appendix G. 

For vessels greater than 400 gross tons that regularly travel more than 1 nm from shore that have 

the capacity to store graywater for a sufficient period, graywater must be discharged greater than 

1 nm from shore while the vessel is underway, unless the vessel meets the treatment standards 

and other requirements contained under Parts 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 or 5.2.1 and 5.2.2 of this permit. 

Additional specific requirements for graywater apply to cruise ships (Parts 5.1 and 5.2) and large 

ferries (Part 5.3).

Vessels that do not travel more than 1 nm from shore shall minimize the discharge of graywater 

and, provided the vessel has available graywater storage capacity, must dispose of graywater 

onshore if appropriate facilities are available and such disposal is economically practicable and 

achievable unless the vessel meets the treatment standards and other requirements contained 

under Parts 5.1.1 and 5.1.2 or 5.2.1 and 5.2.2 of this permit. You must also minimize the 

discharge of graywater when the vessel is not underway. 

If graywater will be discharged in waters subject to this permit, the introduction of kitchen oils to 

the graywater system must be minimized. When cleaning dishes, you must remove as much food 

and oil residue as practicable before rinsing dishes. Excess oils used in cooking, including animal 

fats and vegetable oils, shall not be added to the graywater system. Under no circumstances may 

oil from the galley and scullery be discharged in quantities that may be harmful as defined in 40 

CFR Part 110. 

Vessel owners/operators must use phosphate-free and minimally-toxic soaps and detergents, as 

defined in Appendix A of this permit, for any purpose if graywater will be discharged into waters 

subject to this permit. Soaps and detergents must be free from toxic or bioaccumulative 

compounds and not lead to extreme shifts in receiving water pH. For purposes of this part, 

extreme shifts means causing pH to fall below 6.0 or rise above 9.0 as a direct result of the 

discharge.

If your vessel is underway in a nutrient-impaired water, or a water that is impaired as a result of 

nutrient enrichment (such as waters listed as impaired for phosphorus, nitrogen, or for hypoxia or 

anoxia [low dissolved oxygen concentrations]), you must follow these additional requirements: 

When the vessel has adequate graywater storage capacity, the vessel owner/operator shall not 

discharge graywater into nutrient-impaired waters subject to this permit (e.g., the Chesapeake 

Bay). A complete list of such waters can be found at www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels. Where the 

vessel does not have adequate storage capacity to eliminate such discharges, graywater 

production and discharge must be minimized in such waters. Any such discharge must be 

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conducted while the vessel is underway in areas with significant circulation and depth to the 

extent feasible. Graywater stored while in such waters can later be disposed of onshore or 

discharged in accordance with the other requirements of this permit.

2.2.15.1 Additional Graywater Requirements for Certain VGP Vessels Operating in the 

Great Lakes 

Any vessel operating on the Great Lakes that is not a “commercial vessel” as defined in 

CWA section 312(a)(10) must meet one of the following requirements for graywater 

management:

(i) The vessel must hold all graywater for onshore discharge to an appropriate 

shoreside facility (an appropriate shoreside facility is either an NPDES permitted 

facility or an entity that delivers wastewater directly to an NPDES permitted 

facility); or 

(ii) The graywater discharge must not exceed 200 fecal coliform forming units per 

100 milliliters and contain no more than 150 milligrams per liter of suspended 

solids. 

Vessels subject to this part must conduct monitoring required under Part 2.2.15.2 to demonstrate 

treatment equipment maintenance and compliance with the limits of this part. Records of the 

sampling and analysis results must be retained onboard for at least 3 years in the vessel’s 

recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2 of this permit.

2.2.15.2 Graywater Monitoring

The following monitoring requirements are applicable to vessels which discharge graywater into 

waters subject to this permit and meet one of the following conditions: 

• The vessel is a new build vessel constructed on or after December 19, 2013, has a 

maximum crew capacity greater or equal to 15, and provides overnight 

accommodations to those crew; or 

• The vessel is subject to Part 2.2.15.1 of this permit.

Vessel owners/operators must collect and analyze two samples per year, collected at least 14 

days apart, and report the results of those samples as part of their Annual Report. Samples must 

be taken for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), fecal coliform, suspended solids, pH, and 

total residual chlorine. Vessel owner/operators may choose to conduct monitoring for e. coli in 

lieu of fecal coliform. Fecal Coliform or e. coli must only be analyzed once per year if vessels 

have difficulty analyzing the results within recommended holding times. Sampling and testing 

shall be conducted according to 40 CFR Part 136. If the vessel is subject to Part 2.2.15.1, 

measured samples must meet the standards specified in that part.

Records of monitoring information shall include: 

• The date, exact place, time, and sampling port location(s) of sampling or 

measurements;

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• The individual(s) who performed the sampling or measurements; 

• The date(s) analyses were performed;

• The individual(s) who performed the analyses; 

• The analytical techniques or methods used; 

• The results of such analyses; and

• Proportions of wastestreams being treated and sampled (such as mixed graywater, 

mixed graywater and blackwater, and galley. If actual amounts are not available, 

the estimated proportions should be provided). 

Vessels subject to this part must note whether the graywater effluent is treated or untreated, and 

also note whether the effluent is graywater alone or if it is mixed with another effluent type (e.g., 

graywater mixed with sewage). Records of the sampling and testing results must be retained 

onboard for at least 3 years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2. 

Vessels which do not enter waters subject to this permit for the calendar year need not conduct 

monitoring for that year, but must clearly indicate on their Annual Report that they did not enter 

waters subject to this permit during that year. 

2.2.16 Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge 

The discharge of motor gasoline and compensating effluent must not have oil in quantities that 

may be harmful as defined in 40 CFR §110.3, which includes discharges resulting in a visible 

sheen, or an oil concentration that exceeds 15 ppm. Determination of oil concentration may be 

measured by EPA Method 1664 or other appropriate method for determination of oil content as 

accepted by the IMO (e.g., ISO Method 9377) or U.S. Coast Guard. Compliance with the 15 ppm 

oil concentration limitation may be established with visual monitoring for an oily sheen. 

Minimize discharge of motor gasoline and compensating discharge in port. If an oily sheen is 

observed, the vessel operator must deploy appropriate oil containment practices. Vessels shall 

not discharge motor gasoline and compensating discharge in waters subject to this permit listed 

in Appendix G. 

2.2.17 Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater

If discharged directly overboard, non-oily machinery wastewater, technical water, or potable 

water must be free from oils in quantities that may be harmful pursuant to 40 CFR Part 110 and 

any additives that are toxic or bioaccumulative in nature. Non-oily machinery wastewater may 

also be drained to the bilge. 

Any discharge of packing gland or stuffing box effluent must not contain oil, including oily 

materials, in quantities that may be harmful. These discharges must not produce a visible sheen 

of oil or oily materials.

2.2.18 Refrigeration and Air Condensate Discharge 

You must not allow refrigeration and air condensate discharge to come into contact with oily or 

toxic materials if it is discharged directly overboard. Refrigeration and air conditioning 

condensate that is collected and plumbed for internal recycling (e.g., recycled as “technical 

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water”) is allowed to commingle with oily water; however, the commingled discharge must meet 

all requirements of Part 2.1.4 of this permit and Part 2.2.2 of this permit if applicable.

2.2.19 Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge (Including Non-Contact Engine 

Cooling Water; Hydraulic System Cooling Water, Refrigeration Cooling Water) 

When possible, non-contact engine cooling water, hydraulic system cooling water, refrigeration 

cooling water and other seawater cooling overboard discharges should occur when the vessel is 

underway to minimize any thermal impacts to the receiving water. 

To reduce the production and discharge of seawater cooling overboard discharge, EPA 

recommends that vessel owner/operators use shore-based power when the vessel is in port if: 

• Shore power is readily available for vessel owner/operators from utilities or port 

authorities;

• Shore-based power supply systems are capable of providing all needed electricity 

required for vessel operations; and 

• The vessel is equipped to connect to shore-based power and such systems are 

compatible with the available shore power. 

Maintenance of all piping and seawater cooling systems must meet the requirements of Part 

2.2.20 (Seawater-Piping Biofouling Prevention). 

2.2.20 Seawater Piping Biofouling Prevention 

Seawater piping biofouling chemicals subject to FIFRA registration (see 40 CFR §152.15) must 

be used in accordance with their FIFRA label. No pesticides or chemicals banned for use in the 

United States may be discharged into waters subject to this permit.

Vessel owner/operators must use the minimum amount of biofouling chemicals needed to keep 

fouling under control. Discharges containing active agents must contain as little chlorine as 

possible. 

Vessel owner/operators must remove fouling organisms from seawater piping on a regular basis 

and dispose of removed substances in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. 

Removed fouling organisms shall not be discharged into waters subject to this permit and EPA 

recommends that if discharged into any waters, should be discharged more than 50 nm from 

shore. Vessel owner/operators should remove any organisms while at sea where technically 

feasible to reduce the risk of invasive species introduction in ports. 

2.2.21 Boat Engine Wet Exhaust 

Vessel engines generating wet exhaust must be maintained in good operating order, well tuned, 

and function according to manufacturer specifications to decrease pollutant contributions to wet 

exhaust. Vessel owner/operators should use low sulfur or alternative fuels for their vessels to 

reduce the concentration of pollutants in discharges from boat engine wet exhaust. 

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EPA encourages vessel operators to consider four stroke engines instead of two stroke engines 

for vessels generating wet exhaust that are covered under this permit. Use of a four stroke engine 

may minimize the discharge of pollutants to waters subject to this permit. Where vessels utilize 

two stroke engines, environmentally acceptable lubricants (as defined in Appendix A of this 

permit) must be used unless technologically infeasible. If technologically infeasible, the vessel 

owner/operator must document in their recordkeeping documentation why they are not using 

environmentally acceptable lubricants. 

2.2.22 Sonar Dome Discharge 

The water inside the sonar dome shall not be discharged into waters subject to this permit for 

maintenance purposes. Vessel operators should not use biofouling chemicals that are 

bioaccumulative for the exterior of sonar domes when non-bioaccumulative alternatives are 

available.

2.2.23 Underwater Ship Husbandry and Hull Fouling Discharges

Vessel owners/operators must minimize the transport of attached living organisms when 

traveling into U.S. waters from outside the U.S. economic zone or between Captain of the Port 

(COTP) zones. Management measures to minimize the transport of attached living organisms 

include selecting an appropriate anti-foulant management system and maintaining that system, in 

water inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of hulls, and thorough hull and other niche area 

cleaning when a vessel is in drydock. 

Whenever possible, rigorous hull-cleaning activities should take place in drydock, or at a landbased facility where the removal of fouling organisms or spent antifouling coatings paint can be 

contained. If water-pressure-based systems are used to clean the hull and remove old paint, you 

must use facilities which treat the washwater prior to discharging to waters subject to this permit 

in order to remove the antifouling compound(s) and fouling growth from the washwater. If 

mechanical means (scraping, etc.) are used to clean the hull and remove old paint, the materials 

removed from the hull during that process must be collected and disposed of properly (e.g., 

onshore). These materials must not be allowed to contaminate nearby waters. 

Vessel owners/operators who remove fouling organisms from hulls while the vessel is 

waterborne must employ methods that minimize the discharge of fouling organisms and 

antifouling hull coatings. These shall include: 

• Use of appropriate cleaning brush or sponge rigidity to minimize removal of 

antifouling coatings and biocide releases into the water column; 

• Limiting use of hard brushes and surfaces to the removal of hard growth; and 

• When available and feasible, use of vacuum or other control technologies to 

minimize the release or dispersion of antifouling hull coatings and fouling 

organisms into the water column. 

Vessel owners/operators must minimize the release of copper-based antifoulant paints during 

vessel cleaning operations. Cleaning of hull surfaces coated with copper-based antifoulant paint 

must not result in any visible cloud or plume of paint in the water; if a visible cloud or plume of 

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paint develops, shift to a softer brush or less abrasive cleaning technique. A plume or cloud of 

paint can be noted by the presence of discoloration or other visible indication that is 

distinguishable from hull growth or sediment removal. Production of a plume or cloud of 

sediment or hull growth is normal in some cases during vessel hull cleaning, but this plume or 

cloud must be substantially paint free (e.g., paint should not be clearly identifiable in the plume 

or cloud). When feasible, attempts must be made to minimize the release of fouling organisms 

and antifouling systems (including copper-based coatings) into surrounding waters. 

Vessels that use copper-based anti-fouling paint must not clean the hull in copper-impaired 

waters within the first 365 days after paint application unless there is a significant visible 

indication of hull fouling. EPA maintains a list of copper-impaired waters on its webpage at 

www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels. If you clean before 365 days after paint application in copperimpaired waters, you must document in your recordkeeping documentation why this early 

cleaning was necessary.

2.2.24 Welldeck Discharges

Welldeck discharges that contain graywater from smaller vessels should not be discharged within 

waters subject to this permit except in cases of emergency. Welldeck discharges from washdown 

of gas turbine engines may not be discharged within waters subject to this permit. Welldeck 

discharges from equipment and vehicle washdowns must be free from garbage and must not 

contain oil in quantities that may be harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 110. 

2.2.25 Graywater Mixed with Sewage from Vessels

The commingled discharge of graywater mixed with sewage from vessels must comply with the 

effluent limits for graywater discharge in Part 2.2.15 or Part 5 of this permit if applicable. 

Though not a requirement of this permit, vessel owner/operators are advised that all discharges 

commingled with sewage must meet the requirements set forth in section 312 of the CWA and its 

implementing regulations found at 40 CFR Part 140 and 33 CFR Part 159. Hence, discharges of 

graywater mixed with sewage must meet both standards to be in compliance with the CWA.

2.2.26 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge

Exhaust gas scrubber washwater discharge must not contain oil, including oily mixtures, in 

quantities that may be harmful as determined in accordance with 40 CFR Part 110. Sludge or 

residues generated in treating exhaust gas scrubber washwater discharge must not be discharged 

in waters subject to this permit and must be delivered ashore to adequate reception facilities. 

In addition, owner/operators of vessels with exhaust gas cleaning systems that result in 

washwater discharges must meet the numeric effluent limits found in Part 2.2.26.1 and the 

monitoring requirements found in Part 2.2.26.2 this permit. These limits are consistent with the 

IMO washwater guidelines set forth in section 10 for Exhaust Gas Cleaning (EGC) Systems 

(resolution MEPC.184(59)). Among other things, these guidelines recommend the establishment 

of limits for concentrations of pollutants in the effluent. 

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2.2.26.1 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge Standards 

2.2.26.1.1 pH 

The discharge of washwater from the exhaust gas scrubber treatment system must have a pH of 

no less than 6.0 measured at the ship’s overboard discharge, with the exception that during 

maneuvering and transit, the maximum difference between inlet and outlet of 2.0 pH units is 

allowed. This difference is to be measured at the ship’s inlet and overboard discharge.

2.2.26.1.2 PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) 

The maximum continuous PAH concentration in the washwater must not be greater than 50 μg/L 

PAHphe (phenanthrene equivalence) above the inlet water PAH concentration for washwater 

flow rates normalized to 45 t/MWh. MWh refers to the maximum continuous rating (MCR) or 80 

percent of the power rating of the fuel oil combustion unit. For the purposes of this criterion, the 

PAH concentration in the washwater must be measured downstream of the water treatment 

equipment, but upstream of any washwater dilution or other reactant dosing unit, if used, prior to 

discharge. 

 The 50-μg/L limit is adjusted upward for lower washwater flow rates per MWh, and vice-versa, 

and the applicable permit limits are contained in Table 7. 

Table 7: PAH Permit Limits in Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge

Flow Rate

(t/MWh)

Discharge Concentration Limit

(μg/L PAHphe equivalents)

Measurement Technology

0 - 1 2,250 Ultraviolet Light

2.5 900 Ultraviolet Light

5 450 Fluorescence2

11.25 200 Fluorescence

22.5 100 Fluorescence

45 50 Fluorescence

90 25 Fluorescence

For a 15-minute period in any 12-hour period, the continuous PAH concentration limit may 

exceed the limit described above by 100 percent. This is to allow for an abnormal start up of the 

exhaust gas scrubber unit. 

2.2.26.1.3 Turbidity 

The washwater treatment system must be designed to minimize suspended particulate matter, 

including heavy metals and ash. The maximum turbidity (monitored continuously) in washwater 

must not be greater than 25 FNU (formazin nephelometric units) or 25 NTU (nephelometric 

turbidity units) or equivalent units, above the inlet water turbidity. However, during periods of 

2 For any flow rate greater than 2.5 t/MWh fluorescence technology should be used.

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high inlet turbidity, the precision of the measurement device and the time lapse between inlet 

measurement and outlet measurement are such that the use of a difference limit is unreliable. 

Therefore, all turbidity difference readings must be a rolling average over a 15-minute period to 

a maximum of 25 FNU or NTU. For the purposes of this criterion, the turbidity in the washwater 

must be measured downstream of the water treatment equipment but upstream of washwater 

dilution (or other reactant dosing) prior to discharge. For a maximum of one 15-minute period 

within any 12-hour period, the continuous turbidity discharge limit may be exceeded by 20 

percent.

2.2.26.1.4 Nitrates +Nitrites

The washwater treatment system must prevent the discharge of nitrates, plus nitrites beyond that 

associated with a 12 percent removal of NOx from the exhaust, or beyond 60 mg/l normalized for 

washwater discharge rate of 45 tons/MWh, whichever is greater. MWh refers to the MCR or 80 

percent of the power rating of the fuel oil combustion unit. For the purposes of this criterion, the 

nitrate concentration in the washwater must be measured downstream of the water treatment 

equipment, but upstream of any washwater dilution or other reactant dosing unit, if used, prior to 

discharge.

The 60-mg/L limit is adjusted upward for lower washwater flow rates per MWh, and vice-versa, 

and the applicable permit limits are contained in Table 8. 

Table 8: Nitrates + Nitrites Permit Limits in Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge

Flow Rate

(t/MWH)

Discharge Concentration Limit

(mg/L nitrate + nitrite)

0 - 1 2,700

2.5 1,080

5 640

11.25 240

22.5 120

45 60

90 30

2.2.26.2 Exhaust Gas Scrubber Analytical Monitoring Requirements

2.2.26.2.1 Continuous Monitoring 

The data recording system must comply with the guidelines in sections 7 and 8 of 

MEPC.184(59) and must continuously record pH, PAH (as available), and turbidity. The vessel 

owner/operator must continuously monitor for PAH discharges where continuous monitoring 

technologies (e.g., probes/analyzers) are available (availability should include the technology’s 

robustness, reliability and ability to perform over for a minimum of two years). When the EGC 

system is operated in waters subject to this permit, the washwater monitoring and recording must 

be continuous. The values monitored and recorded must include pH, PAH (as available), 

turbidity, and temperature. 

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The pH electrode and pH meter must have a resolution of 0.1 pH units and temperature 

compensation. The electrode must comply with the requirements defined in BS 2586 or of 

equivalent or better performance and the meter should meet or exceed BS EN ISO 60746-

2:2003. 

The PAH monitoring equipment must be capable of monitoring PAH in water in a range of at 

least twice the discharge concentration limit given in the table above. A demonstration must be 

made that the equipment operates correctly and does not deviate more than 5 percent in 

washwater with turbidity within the working range of the application. For those applications 

discharging at lower flow rates and higher PAH concentrations, ultraviolet light monitoring 

technology or equivalent should be used due to its reliable operating range. 

The turbidity monitoring equipment must meet requirements defined in ISO 7027:1999 or 

USEPA 180.1. 

All continuous monitoring equipment must be calibrated as recommended by probe 

manufacturers or Exhaust Gas scrubber manufacturers. At a minimum, all probes must be 

calibrated at least annually. EPA expects many probe types (e.g., turbidity probes) will need to 

be calibrated on a more frequent basis. 

2.2.26.2.2 Analytical Monitoring 

In addition to the continuous monitoring found in Part 2.2.26.2.1 of this permit, vessel 

owner/operators must collect and analyze two samples in the first year of permit coverage or 

system operation, whichever is first, for each of the constituents analyzed in Part 2.2.26.2.3 to 

demonstrate treatment equipment maintenance, probe accuracy, and compliance with this permit. 

Samples must not be collected within 14 days of each other. Samples must be collected for inlet 

water (for background), water after the scrubber (but before any treatment system), and 

discharge water. For all vessels, one of those samples may be conducted as part a vessel’s 

annual or other survey, and during the first year, one of those sampling events may be conducted 

as part of the installation of the system to ensure it is functioning properly. 

After the first year, samples must be collected at least once per calendar year for inlet water (for 

background), water after the scrubber (but before any treatment system), and discharge water, 

and may be collected as part of the vessel’s annual survey as appropriate. Records of the 

sampling and testing results must be retained onboard for a period of 3 years in the vessel’s 

recordkeeping documentation consistent with Part 4.2. 

2.2.26.2.3 Analytes for Analytical Monitoring 

Vessels conducting monitoring as required by Part 2.2.26.2.2 must monitor for the following 

parameters, choosing either sufficiently sensitive EPA Part 136 methods or other methods if 

specifically allowed:

• Dissolved and Total Metals, including, Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, 

Lead, , Nickel, Selenium, Thallium, Vanadium, and Zinc (recommend using EPA 

Methods 200.8 or 200.9. Because matrix interference is a known issue for arsenic 

and selenium in saltwater samples, the Agency strongly recommends operators 

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using Octopole Reaction Cell ICP-MS, Dynamic Reaction Cell ICP-MS, hydride 

generation with a graphite furnace, or other appropriate approach consistent with 

200.8 or 200.9 to minimize this interference);

• PAHs including Acenaphthylene, Acenaphthene, Anthracene Benz[a]anthracene, 

Benzo[ghi]perylene, Benzo[a]pyrene, Benzo[b]fluoranthene +, 

benzo[k]fluoranthene, Chrysene, Dibenz[a,h]anthracene, Fluoranthene, Fluorene, 

Indeno[1,2,3,c,d]pyrene, Naphthalene, Phenanthrene, and Pyrene (recommend 

using EPA Methods 550.1, 610, 625, 8100, 8270c, 8310); 

• Nitrate-Nitrite (recommend using EPA Method 353.2); 

• pH (using Standard Methods (SM) 4500-H B); 

2.2.26.2.4 Monitoring Reporting 

Vessel owners/operators must submit all monitoring data to EPA electronically, unless exempted 

from electronic reporting consistent with Part 1.14 of this permit. Monitoring data must be 

submitted at least once per calendar year no later than February 28 of the following year on the 

vessel annual report. Data must be submitted on or attached to the exhaust gas scrubber DMR 

available in Appendix H of this permit or submitted to EPA electronically. The system is 

scheduled to be available at www.epa.gov/vessels/eNOI. Data may be submitted as part of the 

vessel’s annual report. 

2.2.27 Fish Hold Effluent 

All reasonable steps must be taken to prevent the discharge of excess fish hold water and ice 

while the vessel is stationary at the pier. If large solid pieces of fish waste are contained in the 

fish hold effluent (e.g., fish heads, internal organs) the fish hold effluent may not be discharged 

while the vessel is pierside and stationary, unless a physical separation method is used (e.g., 1⁄2 

inch coarse screens or smaller, a screened hose having 1⁄2 inch screen openings or smaller, filters, 

or other methods to remove large solids). 

Solid fish waste must be disposed of shoreside on land or at sea (but outside of harbors or other 

protected and enclosed coastal waters, and other areas where EPA has found that such deposits 

could endanger health, the environment, or ecological systems in a specific location under the 

Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act, 33 U.S.C 1412(d)). 

Except for discharges from holding tanks for the sole purpose of keeping the catch alive during 

transit by pumping continuous “once through” ambient water into and through the tank prior to 

immediate discharge (e.g., crabbing/lobster vessels), if you are unloading your catch at a shorebased seafood processor or other pier and a shore-based discharge facility is available and 

economically achievable, you must discharge your effluent (including dirty ice) to that shorebased facility instead of discharging to surrounding waters if: 

• Its use is economically achievable, and

• The facility has a valid NPDES permit, or 

• That facility discharges to an NPDES-permitted sewage treatment facility. 

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Do not discard any unused live bait overboard, unless you caught that bait in that waterbody or 

watershed. Unused live bait purchased from a bait shop or dealer may not be discharged 

overboard unless the vessel operator has documentation from the dealer that the bait was caught 

in that waterbody. 

2.3 Additional Water Quality-Based Effluent Limits 

The requirements in Part 2.3 constitute the water quality-based effluent limitations in this permit. 

These water quality-based effluent limitations supplement this permit’s effluent limitations in 

Parts 2.1, 2.2, 2.3.2 and 5 of this permit.

2.3.1 Water Quality-Based Effluent Limitations 

Your discharge must be controlled as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards in the 

receiving water body or another water body impacted by your discharges. 

EPA generally expects that compliance with the other conditions in this permit, including Parts 

2.1, 2.2, and 5, will control discharges as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards. If 

at any time you become aware, or EPA determines, that your discharge causes or contributes to 

an exceedance of applicable water quality standards, you must take corrective actions as required 

in Part 3; you must also report the exceedance(s) to EPA as required in Parts 1.14 and 4.4.1. 

EPA may impose additional water quality-based limitations on a site-specific basis, or require 

you to obtain coverage under an individual permit, if information in your NOI (if applicable), 

required reports, or from other sources indicates that, after meeting the water quality-based 

limitations in this part, your discharges are not controlled as necessary to meet applicable water 

quality standards, either in the receiving water body or another water body impacted by your 

discharges. EPA or an authorized representative of EPA may inform vessel owner/operators of 

specific requirements.

2.3.2 Discharges to Water Quality Impaired Waters 

Impaired waters or “water quality limited segment[s]” are those which have been identified by a 

state or EPA pursuant to section 303(d) of the CWA as not meeting applicable state water quality 

standards. Impaired waters may include both waters with EPA-approved or EPA-established 

Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), and those for which EPA has not yet approved or 

established a TMDL.

2.3.2.1 Discharges to Impaired Waters without an EPA-Approved or Established 

TMDL 

If you discharge to an impaired water without an EPA-approved or established TMDL, you are 

required to comply with the requirements in Part 2.3.1, including any additional requirements 

that EPA may impose pursuant to that part. Note that this provision also applies to situations 

where EPA determines that your discharge is not controlled as necessary to meet water quality 

standards in another water body, even if your discharge is to a receiving water that is not 

specifically identified on a section 303(d) list of impaired waters. 

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2.3.2.2 Discharges to Impaired Waters with an EPA-Approved or Established TMDL 

If you discharge to an impaired water with an EPA-approved or established TMDL and EPA or 

state TMDL authorities have informed you that a Waste Load Allocation (WLA) has been 

established that applies specifically to your vessel’s discharges, to discharges from vessels in 

your vessel class or type, or to discharges from vessels in general, your discharge must be 

consistent with the assumptions and requirements of that WLA. If such a WLA exists, EPA will 

inform you if any additional limits or controls are necessary for your discharge to be consistent 

with the assumptions of any available WLA in the TMDL, or whether an individual permit 

application is necessary in accordance with Part 1.8.1. Note that this provision also applies to 

situations where EPA determines that your discharges are covered by the WLA in an EPAapproved or established TMDL for another water body, even if your discharge is to a receiving 

water that is not specifically identified on a section 303(d) list.

If an applicable TMDL exists either individually or categorically for your vessel or vessel class 

(including disallowing discharges from your vessel), EPA and/or state TMDL agencies will 

inform vessel owners/operators of specific requirements. 

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3. CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

The corrective action requirements in Part 3 in no way impair EPA’s or an authorized 

representative acting on EPA’s behalf to require remedies to bring a vessel owner/operator into 

compliance with this permit as soon as possible. On a case-by-case basis, EPA may take 

enforcement action to require any remedy or corrective action necessary to achieve compliance 

as quickly as possible, including more stringent time tables than those listed in this part. 

3.1 Problems Triggering the Need for Corrective Action

If any of the following problems are identified, you must take action to ensure that the problem is 

eliminated and will not be repeated:

• You violate one or more effluent limits in Part 2 or Part 5 or any other 

requirement of this permit, or an inspection or evaluation of your vessel by an 

EPA official or an official agent acting on EPA’s behalf determines that 

modifications to the control measures are necessary to meet the effluent limits;

• You become aware, or EPA determines, that your measures do not control 

discharges as stringently as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards; 

or

• You find, or EPA determines, that your pollution control measures or best 

management practices are not being properly operated and maintained, or are not 

having the intended effect in minimizing pollutant discharges.

Problems might be identified through: the routine visual inspections or comprehensive annual 

inspections required by this permit under Part 4; any other inspection or evaluation of your 

operations by you, a government official, or anyone else; or through any other means. 

3.2 Corrective Action Assessment

Following the identification of any of the problems listed in Part 3.1, you must conduct a 

corrective action assessment into the nature, cause, and potential options for eliminating these 

problems. The assessment must include the following: 

• A description of the problem(s) discovered (e.g., the release of untreated ballast 

water not meeting the effluent limit, spilling oil in quantities that may be harmful 

as defined in 40 CFR Part 110), including the date, time, and locations on the 

vessel where it occurred, the types of impacts observed, and the name, title, and 

signature of the person who identified the problem and of the person who 

recorded the problem. 

• An explanation of the cause of the problem(s), if known. If unknown at the time 

of the assessment, provide an indication of what steps will be taken to determine 

the cause. 

• A description of the corrective actions to be taken necessary to eliminate the 

problem(s), and a schedule of activities for completing such actions within the 

timeframes established in Part 3.3. 

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• An indication of whether the corrective action requires the vessel to be in drydock

and, if so, the next planned date the vessel will be dry-docked. 

• Once the corrective action is implemented, record the date(s) and time(s) of the 

action, a description of the corrective action implemented, and the name, title, and 

signature of the person recording this information. 

You must retain the findings of your corrective action assessment in your recordkeeping 

documentation or in your ship’s log (pursuant to Part 4.2), signed and certified in accordance 

with Part 1.7 of this permit.

3.3 Deadlines for Eliminating Problem 

Corrective action with respect to many permit requirements can be accomplished immediately. 

These requirements include, but are not limited to, housekeeping and certain operation and 

maintenance requirements. In these situations, you must return to compliance immediately. 

Restoring compliance with some permit requirements may require additional time for the vessel 

owner/operator to reasonably correct the problem. The following deadlines apply for eliminating 

the problem identified in Part 3.1 depending on the type of corrective action that must be taken:

• Corrective actions that can be accomplished with relatively simple adjustments to 

your control measures, using existing personnel and resources, and not requiring 

the vessel to be in drydock: you must address the underlying cause of the 

noncompliance and return to compliance and/or complete necessary adjustments 

or repairs as soon as possible but no later than 2 weeks after the discovery of the 

problem, or, if leaving waters subject to this permit, before the expiration of the 2-

week period or before reentering waters subject to this permit, whichever is later. 

• Corrective actions that require new parts, require equipment or parts that are not 

onboard the vessel or readily available, or require the installation of new 

equipment, not requiring the vessel to be in drydock: you must address the 

underlying cause of the noncompliance and return to compliance and/or complete 

necessary repairs no later than 3 months after the discovery of the problem, or, if 

leaving waters subject to this permit, before the expiration of the 3-month period 

or before reentering waters subject to this permit, whichever is later. However, if 

completing repairs within 3 months is impracticable, you must complete repairs as 

soon as possible after 3 months and document the reason why more time is 

needed as part of your corrective action assessment.

• For corrective actions that require large or comprehensive renovations, 

alterations, or repairs to the vessel that can only be achieved while the vessel is in 

drydock: you must address the underlying cause of the noncompliance and return 

to compliance and/or complete necessary renovations or repairs prior to relaunching the vessel from drydock or prior to reentering waters subject to this 

permit following the next drydock, whichever is later.

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3.4 Effect of Corrective Action

 If the initial occurrence of the problem in Part 3.1 constitutes a violation of the permit, 

conducting the Part 3.2 assessment and correcting the problem according to Part 3.3 does not 

absolve you of liability for this original violation. However, failure to comply with Parts 3.2

and/or 3.3 constitutes an additional permit violation. EPA will consider the appropriateness and 

promptness of corrective action in determining enforcement responses to permit violations. 

EPA may impose additional requirements and schedules of compliance, including requirements 

to submit additional information concerning the condition(s) triggering corrective action or 

schedules and requirements more stringent than specified in this permit. Those requirements and 

schedules will supersede those of Part 3.3 if such requirements conflict. EPA may also notify 

you that an individual permit application is necessary in accordance with Part 1.8.1. 

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4. INSPECTIONS, MONITORING, REPORTING, AND RECORDKEEPING

4.1 Self Inspections and Monitoring

You must conduct the following inspections of your vessel. Please see the accompanying Fact 

Sheet for guidance on how these requirements apply to vessels frequently outside waters subject 

to this permit. 

4.1.1 Routine Visual Inspections

Except as provided below, a routine visual inspection must be conducted at least once per week 

or per voyage, whichever is more frequent, unless the vessel meets the requirements for extended 

unmanned period inspections in Part 4.1.1.2 of this permit, or unless multiple voyages occur in a 

single day. If vessel owners/operators engage in multiple voyages per day, they need not conduct 

inspections on every voyage, but must conduct inspections at least once per day. The term 

“voyage” for purposes of the VGP is defined in Appendix A of this permit.

Routine visual inspections should be conducted on a schedule that coincides with other routine 

vessel inspections if feasible. Conduct routine visual inspections of all accessible areas addressed 

in this permit, including, but not limited to cargo holds, boiler areas, machinery storage areas, 

welldecks, and other deck areas. Ensure these areas are clear of garbage, exposed raw materials, 

oil, any visible pollutant or constituent of concern that could be discharged in any waste stream, 

that pollution prevention mechanisms are in proper working order, and pollution prevention 

procedures are in place to minimize the addition of pollutants to any waste stream. At a 

minimum, the routine visual inspection must verify to the extent feasible that requirements of 

Part 2.1 are being met and document any instances of noncompliance. Your routine visual 

inspection must also include a visual inspection of safely accessible deck and cargo areas and all 

accessible areas where chemicals, oils, dry cargo, or other materials are stored, mixed, and used, 

whether or not the areas have been used since the last inspection. A ship’s watch must include 

visual monitoring of the water around and behind the vessel for visible sheens, dust, chemicals, 

abnormal discoloration or foaming, and other indicators of pollutants or constituents of concern 

originating from the vessel. Particular attention should be paid to deck runoff, ballast water, and 

bilgewater. If you identify or are made aware that pollutants or constituents of concern are 

originating from your vessel in a manner that violates the limitations in this permit, you must 

initiate corrective actions, as described in Part 3 of this permit. Vessel owners/operators may 

conduct these inspections as part of meeting their existing (or updated) international safety 

management code (ISM) safety management system (SMS) plan obligations, provided that those 

inspections meet the minimum requirements discussed above. 

In situations where multiple voyages occur within a one-week period, you may choose to 

conduct a limited visual inspection addressing only those areas that may have been affected by 

activities related to the docking and cargo operations conducted during each voyage instead of 

conducting a full routine visual inspection per voyage (or per day, if there are multiple voyages 

in one day). If you employ such an approach, you must conduct a full visual inspection of the 

vessel at least once per week. 

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4.1.1.1 Documentation of the Routine Visual Inspection 

You must document the findings of each routine visual inspection in the official ship logbook or 

as a component of other recordkeeping documentation referenced in Part 4.2. You must 

document the date and time of inspection, ship locations inspected, personnel conducting the 

inspection, location of any visual sampling and observations, note any potential problems and 

sources of contamination found, and it must be signed by the person conducting the inspection, if 

not the Master. For limited visual inspections, you need only initial that the inspections were 

conducted as an addendum to the documentation of the full “weekly” visual inspection, unless 

additional potential problems or contamination is found. 

The person conducting the inspection must be a signatory under 40 CFR §122.22. A signatory 

includes the person in charge (e.g., the Master), or his or her duly authorized representative. The 

records of routine visual inspections must be made available to EPA or its authorized 

representative upon request. Vessel operators must initiate corrective actions, as required under 

Part 3 of this permit, for any of the conditions listed in Part 3.1 that are identified in their 

inspections. 

4.1.1.2 Extended Unmanned Period (EUP) Inspections

A vessel is considered to be in an extended unmanned period (EUP) if the vessel is temporarily

(e.g., for storage or repair) unmanned, fleeted, jacked-up, or otherwise has its navigation systems 

and main propulsion shut down (e.g., a vessel in drydock or extended lay-up) for 13 days or 

greater. During an EUP, a vessel owner/operator may elect to either continue conducting 

routine inspections of the vessel consistent with Part 4.1.1 of this permit, or he or she may 

conduct an EUP Inspection. The EUP inspection is an alternative inspection for fleeted, jackedup, or similarly situated vessels, which routinely go into temporary or extended periods of layup. 

Vessel owners/operators may conduct EUP inspections in lieu of routine visual inspections if 

they are up-to-date with all other inspection and reporting requirements found in Part 4 of this 

permit (including routine and annual inspections) and the vessel owner/operator must not have 

received any VGP-related notices of violation or faced any VGP-related enforcement action from 

EPA within the previous 24 months. 

The EUP inspection consists of three primary components: a pre lay-up inspection, a periodic 

external observation of the vessel and surrounding waters, and a post lay-up routine visual 

inspection. Each is explained in greater detail below.

Immediately before a vessel is placed in an EUP, the vessel operator must conduct the pre lay-up 

inspection, which will consist of: 

• A routine visual inspection consistent with Part 4.1.1 of this permit.

• Ensuring Part 2.1.1, material storage and Part 2.1.2, toxic and hazardous material 

requirements are met.

• Ensuring all oils and oily machinery are properly secured, covered, and protected. 

Any spilled or leaked oils must be cleaned up immediately. If machinery or 

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equipment is leaking oil, the leaks must be stopped or appropriate containment 

must be in place to capture any leaking oil.

• Documenting whether automatic bilge water pump(s) will be engaged on the 

vessel during the EUP.

• Documenting the amount of fuel on board. 

• Documenting the amount of ballast water on board. 

• Documenting the date the EUP began.

While a vessel is in EUP, the owner/operator or an authorized representative must examine the 

outside of the vessel and surrounding waters at least once every two weeks for any evidence of 

leaks, loss of cargo, or any other spills which might result in an unauthorized discharge. If any 

deficiencies are observed while the vessel is in EUP, the vessel owner/operator must document 

those deficiencies and the corrective actions taken to resolve those deficiencies. If a visible sheen 

is noted on the surface of the surrounding water, the source of the oil must be identified and 

corrective action must be taken immediately. Furthermore, EPA must be notified of the visible 

sheen in accordance with Part 4.4 of this permit. If these inspections are conducted as part of the 

routine operations of a fleeter or similar vessel caretaker, the vessel owner/operator does not 

need to keep recordkeeping documentation onboard the vessel if the owner/operator has 

electronic access to all records (including records of a fleeter or other caretaker kept in a central 

office), and those records are made immediately available to EPA or its authorized representative 

upon request. See Part 4.2.1 of this permit for electronic recordkeeping requirements.

While a vessel is in EUP, the only applicable monitoring and inspection requirements are those

specified in this Part 4.1.1.2. Once a vessel reenters service and is no longer considered to be in 

EUP, it must comply with all previously applicable monitoring and inspection requirements. 

Before a vessel reenters service, the vessel owner/operator must conduct a post lay-up routine 

visual inspection. As part of this inspection, the owner/operator must document the date the EUP 

ended, whether fluids (e.g., fuel, ballast water) are at their pre-EUP levels, and whether any spills 

or leaks of oily materials are observed. Any deficiencies noted must be corrected before the 

vessel reenters service.

4.1.2 Analytical Monitoring

Analytical monitoring requirements for specific discharge types are identified in Parts 2.2.2, 

2.2.3, 2.2.15, and 2.2.26 of this permit, and for specific vessel types in Part 5 of this permit.

4.1.3 Comprehensive Annual Vessel Inspections

Comprehensive vessel inspections must be conducted by qualified personnel at least once every 

12 months. Qualified personnel include the Master or owner/operator of the vessel, if 

appropriately trained, or appropriately trained marine or environmental engineers or technicians 

or an appropriately trained representative of a vessel’s class society acting on behalf of the 

owner/operator. 

Comprehensive annual inspections must cover all areas of the vessel affected by the 

requirements in this permit that can be inspected safely and without forcing a vessel into 

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drydock. Special attention should be paid to those areas most likely to result in a discharge, 

likely to cause or contribute to exceedances of water quality standards in the receiving waterbody 

or another water body impacted by your discharges, or violate effluent limits established in this 

permit. Areas that inspectors must examine include, but are not limited to: 

• The vessel hull, including niche areas, for fouling organisms, flaking anti-foulant 

paint, exposed TBT or other organotin surfaces; 

• Ballast water tanks, as applicable;

• Bilges, pumps, and oily water separator (OWS) sensors, as applicable; 

• Oil discharge monitoring system and electronic valve switching function, as 

applicable;

• Protective seals for lubrication and hydraulic oil; 

• Oil and chemical storage areas, cargo areas, and waste storage areas; and

• All visible pollution control measures to ensure that they are functioning properly. 

If any portions of the vessel are not inspectable without the vessel entering drydock, the vessel 

owner/operator must inspect these areas during their drydock inspection. For areas not accessible 

during the annual inspection, vessel owner/operators must document that these areas of the 

vessel were not accessible and inspectable in their recordkeeping documentation. 

The annual inspections must also include a review of monitoring data collected in accordance 

with Part 5 if applicable, and routine maintenance records to ensure that required maintenance is 

being performed (e.g., annual tune-ups for small boats that have wet exhaust). Vessel 

owner/operators must also consider the results of the past year’s visual and analytical monitoring 

when planning and conducting inspections. Furthermore, the inspection must verify whether all 

monitoring, training, and inspections are logged and documented according to permit 

requirements.

When a comprehensive annual vessel inspection schedule overlaps with a routine visual 

inspection required under Part 4.1.1 of this permit, the comprehensive annual vessel inspection 

may also be used to meet the requirement of conducting the routine visual inspection, provided 

that all conditions of both types of inspections described in this permit are met. 

If any inspection reveals deficiencies that would result in a violation of the effluent limits in 

Parts 2 and 5, or indicates that a control measure is not functioning as anticipated or is in need of 

repair or upgrade, you must take corrective action to resolve such deficiencies in accordance 

with Part 3. You must record all findings and results from your annual inspection in your 

vessel’s recordkeeping documentation or logbook. 

4.1.4 Drydock Inspection Reports 

Vessel owner/operators must make any dry-dock reports prepared by the class society or their 

flag administrations available to EPA or an authorized representative of EPA upon request. If 

you do not have a dry-dock report from either of these entities, you must prepare your own drydock report and it must be made available to EPA or an authorized representative of EPA upon 

request. The dry-dock report must note that: 

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• The chain locker has been cleaned and/or flushed in accordance with the 

requirements of Part 2.2.8 of this permit ( to remove sediment, living organisms, 

and other constituents of concern as applicable); 

• The vessel hull, propeller, rudder, thruster gratings, sea chest, and other surface 

and niche areas of the vessel have been inspected for attached living organisms 

and those organisms have been removed or neutralized; 

• Any antifoulant hull coatings have been applied, maintained, and removed 

consistent with the FIFRA label if applicable; any exposed existing or any new 

coating does not contain biocides or toxics that are banned for use in the United 

States under the Clean Hull Act of 2010 (33 U.S.C. §§ 3801 et seq.); 

• For all cathodic protection, anodes or dialectic coatings have been cleaned and/or 

replaced to reduce flaking; and 

• All pollution control equipment is properly functioning. 

4.2 Recordkeeping

Vessels covered by this permit must keep records on the vessel or accompanying tug that include 

the following information (as applicable): 

1. Owner/Vessel information:

a. Name,

b. Owner and Vessel IMO Number (official number if IMO number not 

issued), 

c. Vessel type,

d. Owner or operator company name,

e. Owner or operator certifying official’s name,

f. Address of owner/operator, 

g. Gross tonnage, 

h. Call sign, and 

i. Port of Registry (Flag).

2. Voyage Log. Include the dates and ports of arrival, vessel agent(s), last port and 

country of call, and next port and country of call (when known). 

3. If you have any violation of any effluent limit, you must document the violation. 

You must also record: 

a. A description of the violation, 

b. Date of the violation, 

c. Name, title, and signature of the person who identified the violation, 

d. Name, title, and signature of the person who is recording the violation (if 

different from person who identified the violation), 

e. If a Corrective Action Assessment pursuant to Part 3.2 is needed, attach a 

copy or indicate where the corrective action assessment is stored, and 

f. If a Corrective Action Assessment was previously conducted pursuant to 

Part 3.2 (and revisions are not needed for this violation of the effluent 

limit), a reference to that previous corrective action assessment.

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4. Log of findings and any deficiencies and problems identified during routine visual 

inspections and extended unmanned inspections (if applicable) conducted under 

Part 4.1.1, including a discussion of any corrective actions taken as required by 

Part 3, if applicable. Include date, inspector’s name, findings, and corrective 

actions planned or taken. If no deficiencies or problems are found during a routine 

visual inspection, the vessel owner/operator shall record that the inspection was 

completed with the inspector’s name and date. Routine visual inspections and 

extended unmanned inspections (if applicable) must be recorded as completed 

according to Part 4.1.1. 

5. Analytical results of all monitoring referenced in Part 4.1.2, including sample 

documentation, results, and laboratory quality assurance (QA) documentation. 

6. Log of findings from comprehensive annual vessel inspections conducted under 

Part 4.1.3, including a discussion of any corrective actions planned or taken 

required by Part 3. Include date, inspector’s name, findings, and a description of 

the corrective actions taken.

7. Log of findings from drydock inspections conducted under Part 4.1.4 including a 

discussion of any corrective actions planned or taken required by Part 3. Include 

date, inspector’s name, findings, and a description of the corrective actions taken. 

8. Record of any specific water quality based requirements in Part 2.3 given to your 

vessel by EPA or its authorized representative and how you have met those 

requirements.

9. Additional maintenance and discharge information to be recorded and kept in a 

log on the vessel: 

a. Deck maintenance. Record dates, materials used, application process, etc. 

for any significant maintenance of the deck surface(s) (e.g., more than 

routine, daily cleaning activities, such as cleaning, sweeping, scraping, or 

touch-up paint).

b. Bilgewater. Record dates, location, oil concentration (for MARPOL 

vessels) or visible sheen observation (non-MARPOL vessels), and 

estimated volume of bilgewater discharges. Record the same information 

for bilgewater disposed of at onshore locations. 

c. Paint application. Record dates, materials used, application process, etc. 

for any antifouling paint applied to the vessel. 

d. AFFF. Record dates, estimated volumes, and constituents of any 

discharges of AFFF.

e. Chain locker inspections. Record dates of inspections and any rinsing 

conducted within waters subject to this permit.

f. Controllable pitch propeller, stern tube, and other oil-to-sea interface 

maintenance. Record dates and locations of any maintenance of 

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controllable pitch propellers that occurs while the vessel is in waters 

subject to this permit.

g. Any emergencies requiring discharges otherwise prohibited to waters 

listed in Appendix G. 

h. Gas Turbine Water Wash. Record dates and estimated volume of any 

discharge of gas turbine washwater within waters subject to this permit. If 

hauled or disposed of onshore, record log hauler and volume. 

i. Estimated volume and location of graywater discharged while in waters 

subject to this permit.

j. Technical data sheets (MSDS) for all EALs used in Oil-to-Sea interfaces 

onboard the vessel. Document whether the EAL registered under a 

labeling program (e.g., DfE, Blue Angel). If it is technically infeasible to 

use an EAL in an Oil-to-Sea application, include documentation as to the 

reason. 

10. All other documentation required pursuant to this permit. 

11. Record of training completed as required by this permit, and where applicable, 

strategy for passenger training. For purposes of this part, if vessel 

owners/operators include their training plans as part of their ISM or similar 

environmental management plans, and they can document that they fully 

implement those plans, they will meet the recordkeeping requirements of this part.

Vessel owner/operators may keep paper or electronic records on the vessel or accompanying tug. 

All electronic recordkeeping must meet the requirements found in Part 4.2.1 of this permit.

Owners/operators of unmanned, unpowered barges need not maintain records for numbers 2, 5, 

9, and 11 above. However, owners/operators of unmanned, unpowered barges must provide a 

history of areas where the vessel has operated and applicable general maintenance records to 

EPA upon request. If barge operators are unable to make applicable general maintenance 

records and a history of where the vessel has been available to EPA upon request (e.g., promptly 

retrieve those data from the vessel owner), they must maintain the records for numbers 2, 5, 9, 

and 11 on the vessel or accompanying tug. 

It is not the intention of this permit to require separate records for the Coast Guard and EPA. 

Rather, vessels can harmonize their recordkeeping practices, where appropriate, so that records 

are not unnecessarily duplicative. For example, information can be logged with maintenance 

records, the ship’s log, in existing ISM/SMS plans or recordkeeping, the oil record book, 

shipboard oil pollution emergency plan, or other additional recordkeeping documentation as 

appropriate but must be provided to EPA or its authorized representative if requested. Operators 

may choose how these records will be maintained, but must retain these records on the vessel for 

a period of 3 years. 

Certification of accurate information is required for all NOIs, NOTs, the PARI form, and any 

report (including any monitoring data) submitted to EPA, pursuant to Parts 1.7 of this permit and 

40 CFR §122.22. The vessel owner/operator must retain copies of all reports, certifications, 

records, monitoring data, and other information required by this permit, and records of all data 

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used to complete the NOI to be covered by this permit, for a period of at least 3 years from the 

date that your coverage under this permit expires or is terminated. 

The vessel master, owner/operator, or person in charge shall make available to EPA or an 

authorized representative from EPA all records kept under this part upon request. 

4.2.1 Electronic Recordkeeping

For purposes of the VGP, records may be kept electronically if the records are: 

• In a format that can be read in a similar manner as a paper record, 

• Legally dependable with no less evidentiary value than their paper equivalent, and 

• Accessible to the inspector during an inspection to the same extent as a paper 

copy stored on the vessel would be, if the records were stored in paper form. 

4.3 Additional Recordkeeping for Vessels Equipped with Ballast Tanks

Except for vessels operating exclusively within one Captain of the Port Zone, for vessels 

equipped with ballast tanks that are bound for a port or place in the United States, you must meet 

the recordkeeping requirements of 33 CFR Part 151. 

The master, owner, operator, or person in charge of a vessel bound for a port or place in the 

United States must keep written records that include the following information:

1. Total ballast water information. Include the total ballast water capacity, total 

volume of ballast water on board, total number of ballast water tanks, and total 

number of ballast water tanks in ballast. Use units of measurements such as metric 

tons (MT), cubic meters (m3

), long tons (LT), and short tons (ST). 

2. Ballast water management. Include the total number of ballast tanks/holds that are 

to be discharged into the waters of the United States or to a reception facility. 

Indicate whether the vessel has a ballast water management plan and IMO 

guidelines on board, and whether the ballast water management plan is used. 

3. Information on ballast water tanks that are to be discharged into waters subject to 

this permit or to a reception facility. Include the following:

a. The origin of ballast water. This includes date(s), locations(s) (including 

latitude and longitude and port [if relevant]), volume(s), and 

temperatures(s). If a tank has been exchanged, list the loading port of the 

ballast water that was discharged during the exchange.

b. The date(s), location(s) (including latitude and longitude), volume(s), 

method, thoroughness (percentage exchanged if exchange conducted), sea 

height at time of exchange if exchange conducted, of any ballast water 

exchanged or otherwise managed. 

c. Specific records pertaining to treated ballast water (see Part 2.2.3.5 of the 

permit).

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d. The expected date, location, volume, and salinity of any ballast water to be 

discharged into the waters of the United States or a reception facility. 

4. Discharge of sediment. If sediment is to be discharged into a facility within the 

jurisdiction of the United States, include the location of the facility where the 

disposal will take place. 

The ballast water reporting forms must be kept on board the vessel and must be submitted to the 

National Ballast Information Clearinghouse (NBIC) before arriving to U.S. ports as required by 

the U.S. Coast Guard. In addition, crude oil tankers engaged in the Coast Wise trade are also 

required to submit their ballast water reporting forms to the NBIC as a requirement of this 

permit. In addition, all vessels which conduct saltwater flushing as required by Part 2.2.3.6.3 and 

Part 2.2.3.6.4 of the permit, but do not report saltwater flushing to the NBIC, must instead keep a 

record of saltwater flushing to meet the requirements of this permit. 

4.4 Reporting

4.4.1 Annual Report

For each vessel, owners/operators are required to submit an Annual Report for each year that 

they have active permit coverage. For vessels which must file NOIs, this means for as long as 

they have an active NOI. For vessels which need not file an NOI, they maintain active coverage 

as long as they are operating in waters subject to this permit, provided they have signed and 

maintain a copy of the PARI form. Annual Reports must be completed each calendar year and 

submitted by February 28 of the following year (e.g., the 2014 annual report will be due by 

February 28, 2015). A separate 2013 annual report will not be required; instead, any relevant 

information from December 19, 2013 – December 31, 2013 (if applicable) must be included in 

the annual report for the 2014 calendar year. Permittees covered under the 2008 VGP must 

submit reports of all instances of noncompliance which occur before December 18, 2013 to EPA 

consistent with the terms of that permit. 

All analytical monitoring results must be submitted to EPA as part of the Annual Report.

The vessel owner/operator shall complete the Annual Report form provided in Appendix H of 

this permit and submit it to EPA electronically. It can be completed online by accessing EPA’s 

main NPDES vessel webpage (available via www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels or through EPA’s eNOI 

system (www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/eNOI). 

The vessel owner/operator shall respond to all questions accurately and completely, and provide 

the necessary information and/or data to support each response. Unless one of the exceptions in 

Part 1.14 is met, the vessel owner/operator must submit each Annual Report electronically in 

accordance with the procedures described in Part 1.14 of this permit.

If you are eligible to submit a hard copy of the Annual Report, you must send your completed 

annual report to EPA HQ (Attn: Vessel Annual Report, Mail Code 4203M, 1200 Pennsylvania 

Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20460). Hard copy reports must be postmarked by February 21 of 

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the following calendar year (i.e., the 2014 annual report must be postmarked by February 21, 

2015). 

The Annual Report replaces the annual noncompliance report and one-time report requirements 

found in the 2008 VGP. All instances of noncompliance must be reported as part of the Annual 

Report. 

4.4.2 Combined Annual Reports for Unmanned, Unpowered Barges or Vessels less 

than 300 Gross Tons 

Operators of unmanned, unpowered barges or other vessels less than 300 gross tons (e.g., small 

tug boats) may submit a single annual report (referred to as the Combined Annual Report) for 

multiple vessels and/or barges, provided all of the following conditions are met: 

• The answers for each barge or vessel for which the report is to be submitted are 

the same;

• Each barge or vessel was not required to conduct any analytical monitoring;

• The Combined Annual Report is submitted electronically; 

• There were no instances of noncompliance for any barge or vessel and no 

instances of identified deficiencies by EPA or its authorized representatives 

during any inspections during the previous 12 months; and 

• Each barge or vessel has an NOI permit number or, if not required to submit an 

NOI, a commonly used unique identifier (e.g., registration number) so EPA can 

identify the vessel. For vessels less than 300 gross tons which have not submitted 

an NOI, the unique identifier numbers must be entered on the combined annual 

report.

Vessel owners/operators of unmanned, unpowered barges or vessels less than 300 gross tons may 

submit a Combined Annual Report for some or most of their fleet, or submit individual Annual 

Reports if they prefer. Individual Annual Reports are required for any barges or other vessels

which are not eligible for the Combined Annual Report, as specified above. 

4.4.3 Reportable Quantities of Hazardous Substances or Oil 

Although not a requirement of this permit, if a discharge contains oil or a hazardous substance in 

an amount equal to or in excess of a harmful or reportable quantity established under 40 CFR 

Part 110, 40 CFR Part 117, or 40 CFR Part 302, during a 24-hour period, the National Response 

Center (NRC) must be notified (dial 800-424-8802 or 202-426-2675 in the Washington, DC 

area). Also, within 14 calendar days of knowledge of the release, the date and description of the 

release, the circumstances leading to the release, responses to be employed for such releases, and 

measures to prevent recurrences of such releases must be recorded in your recordkeeping 

documentation consistent with Part 4.2 of this permit. 

Where a discharge of hazardous substances or oil in excess of reportable or harmful quantities 

occurs, such discharge is not authorized by this permit and may also be a violation of section 311 

of the CWA, 33 USC §1321. Note that these spills must be reported as described above. Also 

applicable are of the CWA and certain provisions of sections 301 and 402 of the CWA. 

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4.4.4 Additional Reporting

In addition to the reporting requirements stipulated in Part 4 of this permit, you are also subject 

to the standard permit reporting provisions referenced in Part 1.13. 

Where applicable, you must submit the following information to the appropriate EPA Regional 

Office listed in Appendix B for the location in which the instance(s) of noncompliance occurred: 

• 24-hour reporting – You must report any noncompliance which may endanger 

health or the environment. Any information must be provided orally within 24 

hours from the time you become aware of the circumstances. 

• 5-day follow-up reporting to the 24-hour reporting – A written submission must 

also be provided within five days of the time you become aware of the 

circumstances.

If you report to the NRC as referenced in Part 4.4.3 of the permit, you do not need to complete 

reporting under this part. 

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5. VESSEL-CLASS-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

You must comply with the requirements of Part 5 of this permit, Vessel-Class-Specific 

Requirements, associated with your vessel class in addition to any applicable requirements that 

apply to all vessels specified elsewhere in this permit.

5.1 Large Cruise Ships (authorized to carry 500 people or more for hire)

The requirements in Part 5.1 apply to vessel discharges from cruise ships providing overnight 

accommodations (i.e., cruise ships with onboard sleeping facilities) to passengers and authorized 

to carry 500 people or more for hire. 

5.1.1 Additional Effluent Limits

5.1.1.1 Graywater Management

5.1.1.1.1 Graywater Discharge Location and Rate 

Pierside Limits – While pierside, appropriate onshore reception facilities for graywater must be 

used unless the vessel treats graywater with a device to meet the standards in Part 5.1.1.1.2. If 

such facilities are not reasonably available and you do not have the capacity to treat graywater to 

meet the standards in Part 5.1.1.1.2, you must hold the graywater until the vessel is underway 

and not in waters subject to this permit. Appropriate reception facilities are those authorized for 

use by the port authority or local municipality and that treat the discharge in accordance with its 

NPDES permit. 

Operational Limits – You must meet the following restriction:

• While operating within 3 nm from shore, discharges of graywater are prohibited 

unless they meet the effluent standards in Part 5.1.1.1.2. 

Limits Applicable to Operation in Nutrient Impaired Waters – If you operate in nutrient-impaired 

waters including, but not limited to, the Chesapeake Bay or the territorial sea surrounding the 

mouth of the Mississippi River in the Gulf of Mexico, you must: 

• Not discharge any graywater in nutrient-impaired waters subject to this permit 

unless the length of voyage in that water exceeds the vessel’s holding capacity for 

graywater; and

• Minimize the discharge of any graywater into nutrient-impaired waters subject to 

this permit, which may require minimizing the production of graywater; and 

• If your vessel’s holding capacity for graywater is exceeded, treat such excess 

graywater (above the vessel holding capacity) by a device meeting the standards 

in Part 5.1.1.1.2 prior to discharge into nutrient-impaired waters subject to this 

permit; or 

• Dispose of the graywater at an onshore facility which will discharge the effluent 

under a valid NPDES permit. 

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A list of nutrient impaired waters is available at www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels.

5.1.1.1.2 Graywater Treatment Standards 

The discharge of treated graywater must meet the following standards: 

1. The discharge must satisfy the minimum level of effluent quality specified in 40 

CFR §133.102; 

2. The geometric mean of the samples from the discharge during any 30-day period 

may not exceed 20 fecal coliform/100 milliliters (ml) and not more than 10 

percent of the samples may exceed 40 fecal coliform/100 ml; and

3. Concentrations of total residual chlorine may not exceed 10.0 micrograms per 

liter (μg/l). 

5.1.1.1.3 Sculleries and Galleys

Cruise ship owners/operators must use soaps and detergents that are phosphate-free, minimallytoxic, and biodegradable. Degreasers must be minimally-toxic if they will be discharged as part 

of any waste stream. 

5.1.1.1.4 Other Materials

Waste from mercury-containing products, dry cleaners or dry cleaner condensate, photo 

processing labs, medical sinks or floor drains, chemical storage areas, and print shops using 

traditional or non-soy-based inks and chlorinated solvents must be prevented from entering the 

ship’s graywater, blackwater, or bilgewater systems if water from these systems will be 

discharged into waters subject to this permit. Preventing these wastes from entering these 

systems can be accomplished by plugging all drains that flow to the graywater, blackwater, or 

bilge systems in areas where these wastes are produced and creating alternate waste receptacles 

or replumbing drains to appropriate holding tanks. 

Vessel owners/operators must not discharge any toxic materials, including products containing 

acetone, benzene, or formaldehyde into salon and day spa sinks or floor drains if those sinks or 

floor drains lead to any system which will be discharged into waters subject to this permit. This 

includes using these materials on passengers (or crew) and rinsing residuals into these sinks. 

Alternate waste receptacles or holding tanks must be used for these materials. Addition of these 

materials to any systems which will discharge into waters subject to this permit is a permit 

violation. 

5.1.1.2 Pool and Spa Discharges

Discharges of pool or spa water to waters listed in Appendix G are not authorized under this 

permit. Discharges from pools and spas are authorized into non-Appendix G waters subject to 

this permit, provided pool and spa water to be discharged is dechlorinated and/or debrominated, 

and discharge occurs while the vessel is underway. To be considered dechlorinated, the total 

residual chlorine in the pool or spa effluent must be less than 100 μg/l if the pool or spa water is 

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discharged without going through an Advanced Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS). To be 

considered debrominated, the total residual oxidant in the pool or spa effluent must be below 25 

μg/l if the pool or spa water is discharged without going through an AWTS. Pool and spa water 

may be added to the graywater treatment systems; however, any resultant discharge must meet 

all standards and requirements found in Part 5.1.1.1 and must be dechlorinated and/or 

debrominated as applicable.

5.1.2 Monitoring Requirements 

5.1.2.1 Untreated Graywater

The discharge of untreated graywater by large cruise ships is not authorized in waters subject to 

this permit. Any discharge of untreated graywater within waters subject to this permit must be 

reported to EPA as an incidence of noncompliance on the vessel’s Annual Report. 

5.1.2.2 Treated Graywater

Prior to entering waters of the United States, vessel operators must demonstrate that they have an 

effective treatment system that complies with the standards in Part 5.1.1.1.2 if they will 

discharge graywater within 3 nm of shore. 

5.1.2.2.1 Initial Monitoring

In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment system, the vessel operator must take at 

least five (5) samples from the vessel on different days over a 30-day period that are 

representative of the treated effluent to be discharged. A vessel owner/operator that submitted 

data to EPA for a vessel’s discharge from an AWTS under the 2008 VGP requirements or has 

already received certification for continuous discharges from an AWTS and submitted data to the 

U.S. Coast Guard to meet the requirements of Section 1411(b) of Title XIV, Pub. L. 106-554 

(Dec. 31, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763) [Certain Alaska Cruise Ship Operations] (codified at 33 USC 

1901 note) does not need to conduct initial monitoring, and may instead immediately commence 

maintenance monitoring consistent with Part 5.1.2.2.2 of this permit.

Initial monitoring must be done within the first 90 days of permit coverage, within 90 days of 

AWTS installation onboard the vessel, or before vessels discharge into waters subject to this 

permit, whichever is later. Samples must be taken for BOD, fecal coliform, suspended solids, 

pH, and total residual chlorine. Furthermore, samples must be taken for E. coli, total phosphorus 

(TP), ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN). Sampling and testing shall be 

conducted according to 40 CFR Part 136. If the measured samples meet the standards specified 

in Part 5.1.1.1.2, then the owner/operator has demonstrated the effectiveness of their treatment 

system for controlling their graywater discharge. Records of the sampling and testing results 

must be retained onboard for a period of 3 years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation. 

Records of monitoring information shall include: 

• The date, exact place, time, and sampling port location(s) of sampling or 

measurements;

• The individual(s) who performed the sampling or measurements; 

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• The date(s) analyses were performed;

• The individual(s) who performed the analyses; 

• The analytical techniques or methods used; 

• The results of such analyses; and

• Proportions of wastestreams being treated and sampled (such as mixed graywater, 

mixed graywater and blackwater, and galley. If actual amounts are not available, 

the estimated proportions should be provided). 

Analytical results for total residual chlorine below the method detection limit shall be deemed 

compliant with the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method with a detection 

limit no higher than 10.0 μg/L under ideal conditions. EPA recommends Method SM4500-CL G 

(DPD Colorimetric Method) for these purposes as it is able to reach 10 μg/L under ideal 

conditions and so meets these requirements. SM4500-Cl G is typically the method that Alaska 

Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC)/U.S. Coast Guard uses for compliance 

monitoring. 

Testing and reporting for total residual chlorine is not required if chlorine is not used as 

disinfectant in the wastewater treatment works process and no water is drained to the graywater 

system from water with onboard chlorine additions (e.g., swimming pools, spas). 

5.1.2.2.2 Maintenance Monitoring 

After demonstrating the effectiveness of their system, vessel owners/operators must collect and 

analyze one sample per quarter for each of the constituents listed in Part 5.1.2.2.1 to demonstrate 

treatment equipment maintenance and compliance with this permit for any quarter the vessel 

discharges graywater into waters subject to this permit. Furthermore, samples must be taken for 

E. coli, total phosphorus (TP), ammonia, nitrate/nitrite, and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN). 

Regardless of whether a vessel has discharged into waters subject to this permit, maintenance 

monitoring must be conducted at least once per year or vessels must re-conduct initial 

monitoring in accordance with Part 5.1.2.2.1 before discharging into waters subject to this 

permit. Records of the sampling and testing results must be retained onboard for a period of 3 

years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation. 

5.1.2.2.3 Monitoring Reporting 

The owner/operator must submit data showing that the graywater standards are achieved by their 

treatment system to EPA electronically or to EPA, ATTN: VGP Cruise Ship Monitoring Results, 

1200 Pennsylvania Ave., MC 4203M, Washington, DC 20460 if they are eligible for a waiver

under part 1.14 of this permit. Initial sampling data must be submitted at least 7 days before

entering waters subject to this permit, within 90 days of obtaining permit coverage, or within 90 

days of AWTS installation onboard the vessel, whichever is later. Maintenance monitoring data 

must be submitted at least once per calendar year no later than February 28 of the following year 

(e.g., 2014 data must be submitted by February 28, 2015). Data must be submitted on DMRs 

available in Appendix H and/or Appendix I of this permit or submitted to EPA electronically: the

system is scheduled to be available at www.epa.gov/vessels/eNOI. Maintenance monitoring data

may be submitted as part of the vessel’s annual report (Appendix H) . 

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5.1.2.2.4 Reserved Authority

Even if owners/operators have demonstrated their systems meet the standards in Part 5.1.1.1.2, if 

EPA, its authorized representative, or the U.S. Coast Guard sample their graywater effluent and 

find that they are not meeting these standards, the cruise ship owners/operators are liable for 

violating their effluent limits.

5.1.2.2.5 Treated Graywater Records 

The owner/operator must maintain records estimating the quantity and quality of all discharges 

of treated graywater into waters subject to this permit, including date, location and volume 

discharged, and pollutant concentrations monitored in their recordkeeping documentation. These 

records shall be maintained as part of or in combination with the vessel’s sewage and graywater 

discharge record book required under 33 CFR §159.315. 

5.1.2.3 Treated Pool and Spa Discharges 

Vessel owners/operators must monitor chlorine or bromine concentrations (as applicable) in pool 

or spa water before every discharge event using sufficiently sensitive 40 CFR Part 136 methods 

if they will discharge these streams directly into waters subject to this permit to ensure that the 

dechlorination/debromination process is complete. If vessel owners/operators are monitoring 

bromine concentrations, they may use a field test kit which uses the colorimetric method in lieu 

of 40 CFR Part 136 methods to ensure waters have been debrominated, provided that test kit has 

a method detection limit no higher than 50 μg/l. You must record the location of the discharge, 

the estimated volume of the discharge, and the concentration of chlorine or bromine (as 

applicable). Records of this monitoring must be kept with other graywater monitoring records. 

For chlorine, analytical results below the method detection limit shall be deemed compliant with 

the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method with a detection limit no higher 

than 10.0 μg/L under ideal conditions. EPA recommends Method SM4500-CL G (DPD 

Colorimetric Method) for these purposes as it is able to reach 10 μg/L under ideal conditions and 

so meets these requirements. SM4500-Cl G is typically the method that ADEC/USCG uses for 

compliance monitoring. For bromine, analytical results below the method detection limit shall be 

deemed compliant with the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method with a 

detection limit no higher than 50.0 μg/l. 

5.1.3 Educational and Training Requirements 

The crews of cruise ships play a key role in minimizing the discharge of pollutants from cruise 

ship operations and passengers. Therefore, cruise ship operators must provide the following 

educational and training requirements to ship personnel: 

• The ship’s crew members who actively take part in the management of a 

discharge or who may affect any discharge must receive training regarding 

shipboard environmental procedures and must be able to demonstrate proficiency 

in implementing these procedures; 

• Advanced training in shipboard environmental management procedures must be 

provided for those directly involved in managing specific discharge types or areas 

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Final 2013 VGP

of the ship and these crew members must be able to demonstrate proficiency in 

implementing these procedures; and 

• Appropriate reprimand procedures must be developed for crew whose actions lead 

to violations of any effluent limit set forth in this permit or procedures established 

by the cruise ship operator to minimize the discharge of pollutants. 

Cruise ships must also educate passengers on their potential environmental impacts. The goals of 

these education efforts must include preventing trash from entering any waste stream, 

eliminating the addition of unused soaps, detergents, and pharmaceuticals to the graywater or 

blackwater systems, and minimizing production of graywater. This can be accomplished in a 

variety of ways including, but not limited to, posting signage and informational material in 

guestrooms and common areas, incorporating environmental information passenger orientation 

presentations or packages at the start of cruises, incorporating this information into additional 

lectures and seminars, or broadcasting information via loudspeakers. 

Vessel owners/operators must also meet all training-related recordkeeping requirements of Part 

4.2 of this permit. 

5.2 Medium Cruise Ships (authorized to carry 100 to 499 people for hire)

The requirements in Part 5.2 apply to vessel discharges from cruise ships providing overnight 

accommodations (i.e., cruise ships with onboard sleeping facilities) to passengers and authorized 

to carry between 100 and 499 people for hire. 

5.2.1 Additional Effluent Limits

5.2.1.1 Graywater Management

All medium cruise ships must meet all requirements of this part, including the requirements of 

Parts 5.2.1.1.1, unless they are a vessel unable to voyage more than 1 nm from shore and were 

constructed before December 19, 2008. Medium cruise ships unable to voyage 1 nm from shore 

and constructed before December 19, 2008 must meet the requirements in Parts 5.2.1.1.3, 

5.2.1.1.4, 5.2.1.1.5, 0, 5.2.2.1, 5.2.2.3, and 5.2.3. 

5.2.1.1.1 Graywater Discharge Location and Rate 

Pierside Limits – While pierside, appropriate onshore reception facilities for graywater must be 

used, unless the vessel treats graywater with a device to meet the standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2. If 

such facilities are not reasonably available and you do not have the capacity to treat graywater to 

meet the standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2, you must hold the graywater until the vessel is underway 

and not in waters subject to this permit. Appropriate reception facilities are those authorized for 

use by the port authority or local municipality and that treat graywater in accordance with its 

NPDES permit. 

Operational Limits – You must meet the following restrictions: while operating within 3 nm 

from shore, discharges of graywater are prohibited unless they meet the effluent standards in Part 

5.2.1.1.2. 

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Limits Applicable to Operation in Nutrient Impaired Waters – If you operate in nutrient-impaired 

waters including, but not limited to, the Chesapeake Bay or the territorial sea surrounding the 

mouth of the Mississippi River in the Gulf of Mexico, you must: 

• Not discharge any graywater in nutrient-impaired waters subject to this permit 

unless the length of voyage in that water exceeds the vessel’s holding capacity for 

graywater; and

• Minimize the discharge of any graywater into nutrient-impaired waters subject to 

this permit, which may require minimizing the production of graywater; and 

• If your vessel’s holding capacity for graywater is exceeded, treat such excess 

graywater (above the vessel-holding capacity) by a device meeting the standards 

in Part 5.2.1.1.2 prior to discharge into nutrient-impaired waters subject to this 

permit; or 

• Dispose of the graywater at an onshore facility which will discharge the effluent 

under a valid NPDES permit. 

A list of nutrient-impaired waters is available at www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels.

5.2.1.1.2 Graywater Treatment Standards 

The discharge of treated graywater must meet the following standards: 

1. The discharge must satisfy the minimum level of effluent quality specified in 40 

CFR §133.102; 

2. The geometric mean of the samples from the discharge during any 30-day period 

may not exceed 20 fecal coliform/100 milliliters (ml) and not more than 10 

percent of the samples exceed 40 fecal coliform/100 ml; and

3. Concentrations of total residual chlorine may not exceed 10.0 micrograms per 

liter (μg/l).

5.2.1.1.3 Sculleries and Galleys 

Cruise ship owners/operators must use soaps and detergents that are minimally-toxic, phosphate 

free, and biodegradable. Degreasers must be minimally-toxic if they will be discharged as part of 

any waste stream. 

5.2.1.1.4 Other Materials

Waste from mercury-containing products, dry cleaners or dry cleaner condensate, photo 

processing labs, medical sinks or floor drains, chemical storage areas, and print shops using 

traditional or non-soy based inks and chlorinated solvents must be prevented from entering the 

ship’s graywater, blackwater, or bilgewater systems if water from these systems will ever be 

discharged into waters subject to this permit. Preventing these wastes from entering these 

systems can be accomplished by plugging all drains that flow to the graywater, blackwater, or 

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Final 2013 VGP

bilge systems in areas where these wastes are produced and creating alternate waste receptacles 

or replumbing drains to appropriate holding tanks. 

Vessel owners/operators must not discharge any toxic materials, including products containing 

acetone, benzene, or formaldehyde into salon and day spa sinks or floor drains if those sinks or 

floor drains lead to any system which will be discharged into waters subject to this permit. This 

includes using these materials on passengers (or crew) and rinsing residuals into these sinks. 

Alternate waste receptacles or holding tanks must be used for these materials. Addition of these 

materials to any systems which will discharge into waters subject to this permit is a permit 

violation. 

5.2.1.1.5 Graywater Discharge Location and Rate for Vessels Built before December 19, 2008 

unable to voyage 1 nm from shore 

While pierside, appropriate onshore reception facilities for graywater must be used if available 

and their use is economically achievable (unless the vessel treats graywater with a device to meet 

the standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2). Appropriate reception facilities are those authorized for use by 

the port authority or local municipality and that treat the discharge in accordance with its NPDES 

permit. 

If such facilities are not available and you do not have the capacity to treat graywater to meet the 

standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2, you must hold the graywater unless the vessel is underway and sailing 

at a speed of at least 6 knots in a water that is not listed in Appendix G. When operating in 

nutrient impaired waters subject to this permit, you must not discharge any graywater into those 

waters subject unless the length of voyage in that water exceeds the vessel’s holding capacity for 

graywater, and minimize the discharge of any graywater into nutrient-impaired waters subject to 

this permit, which may require minimizing the production of graywater. 

5.2.1.2 Pool and Spa Discharges

Discharges of pool or spa water to waters listed in Appendix G are not authorized under this 

permit. Discharges from pools and spas are authorized into non-Appendix G waters subject to 

this permit, provided pool and spa water to be discharged is dechlorinated and/or debrominated, 

and discharge occurs while the vessel is underway. To be considered dechlorinated, the total 

residual chlorine in the pool or spa effluent must be less than 100 μg/l if the pool or spa water is 

discharged without treatment through an AWTS. To be considered debrominated, the total 

residual oxidant in the pool or spa effluent must be below 25 μg/l if the pool or spa water is 

discharged without going through an AWTS. Pool and spa water may be added to the graywater 

treatment systems; however, any resultant discharge must meet all standards and requirements 

found in Part 5.2.1.1 and must be dechlorinated and/or debrominated as applicable. 

5.2.2 Monitoring Requirements 

5.2.2.1 Untreated Graywater

The owner/operator must maintain records estimating all discharges of untreated graywater into 

waters subject to this permit, including date, location, and volume discharged in their 

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recordkeeping documentation. These records can be maintained as part of the vessel’s sewage 

and graywater discharge record book required under 33 CFR §159.315. 

5.2.2.2 Treated Graywater

Prior to entering waters of the United States, vessel operators must demonstrate that they have an 

effective treatment system that complies with the standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2 if they will 

discharge graywater within 1 nm of shore. 

5.2.2.2.1 Initial Monitoring

In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the treatment system, the vessel operator must take at 

least five (5) samples taken from the vessel on different days over a 30-day period that are 

representative of the treated effluent to be discharged. A vessel owner/operator that submitted 

data to EPA for a vessel’s discharge from an AWTS under the 2008 VGP requirements or 

submitted such data to the U.S. Coast Guard to meet the requirements of Section 1411(b) of Title 

XIV, Pub. L. 106-554 (Dec. 31, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763) [Certain Alaska Cruise Ship Operations] 

(codified at 33 USC 1901 note) does not need to conduct initial monitoring, and may instead 

immediately commence maintenance monitoring consistent with Part 5.2.2.2.2 of this permit.

Initial monitoring must be done within the first 90 days of permit coverage, within 90 days of 

AWTS installation onboard the vessel, or before vessels discharge into waters subject to this 

permit, whichever is later. Samples must be taken for BOD, fecal coliform, suspended solids, 

pH, and total residual chlorine. Furthermore, samples must be taken for E. coli, TP, ammonia, 

nitrate/nitrite, and TKN. Sampling and testing shall be conducted according to 40 CFR Part 136. 

If the measured samples meet the standards specified in Part 5.2.1.1.2, then the owner/operator 

has demonstrated the effectiveness of their treatment system for controlling their graywater 

discharge. Records of the sampling and testing results must be retained onboard for a period of 3 

years in the vessel’s recordkeeping documentation. 

Records of monitoring information shall include: 

• The date, exact place, time, and sampling port location(s) of sampling or 

measurements;

• The individual(s) who performed the sampling or measurements; 

• The date(s) analyses were performed;

• The individual(s) who performed the analyses; 

• The analytical techniques or methods used; 

• The results of such analyses; and

• Proportions of wastestreams being treated and sampled (such as mixed graywater, 

mixed graywater and blackwater, and galley. If actual amounts are not available, 

the estimated proportions should be provided). 

Analytical results for total residual chlorine below the method detection limit shall be deemed 

compliant with the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method with a detection 

limit no higher than 10.0 μg/L under ideal conditions. EPA recommends Method SM4500-CL G 

(DPD Colorimetric Method) for these purposes as it is able to reach 10 μg/L under ideal 

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conditions and so meets these requirements. SM4500-Cl G is typically the method that 

ADEC/U.S. Coast Guard uses for compliance monitoring. 

Testing and reporting for total residual chlorine is not required if chlorine is not used as 

disinfectant in the wastewater treatment works process and no water is drained to the graywater 

system from water with onboard chlorine additions (e.g., swimming pools, spas). 

5.2.2.2.2 Maintenance Monitoring 

After demonstrating the effectiveness of their system, vessel owners/operators must collect and 

analyze one sample per quarter for each of the constituents listed in Part 5.2.2.2.1 to demonstrate 

treatment equipment maintenance and compliance with this permit. Records of the sampling and 

testing results must be retained onboard for a period of 3 years in the vessel’s recordkeeping 

documentation. 

5.2.2.2.3 Monitoring Reporting 

The owner/operator must submit data showing that the graywater standards are achieved by their 

treatment system to EPA electronically or to EPA, ATTN: VGP Cruise Ship Monitoring Results, 

1200 Pennsylvania Ave., MC 4203M, Washington, DC 20460 if the vessel owner/operator is 

eligible for waiver under part 1.14 of this permit. Initial sampling data must be submitted at least 

7 days before entering waters subject to this permit, within 90 days of obtaining permit coverage, 

or within 90 days of AWTS installation onboard the vessel, whichever is later. Maintenance 

monitoring data must be submitted at least once per calendar year no later than February 28 of 

the following year (e.g., 2014 data must be submitted by February 28, 2015). Data must be 

submitted on DMRs available in Appendix H and/or Appendix I of this permit or submitted to 

EPA electronically. The system is scheduled to be available at www.epa.gov/vessels/eNOI. 

Maintenance monitoring data may be submitted as part of the vessel’s Annual Report.

5.2.2.2.4 Reserved Authority

Even if owners/operators have demonstrated their system meets the standards in Part 5.2.1.1.2, if 

EPA, its authorized representative, or the U.S. Coast Guard sample their graywater effluent and 

find that they are not meeting these standards, the cruise ship owners/operators are liable for 

violating their effluent limits.

5.2.2.2.5 Treated Graywater Records 

The owner/operator shall maintain records estimating the quantity and quality of all discharges 

of treated graywater into waters subject to this permit, including date, location, and volume 

discharged, and pollutant concentrations monitored in their recordkeeping documentation. These 

records shall be maintained as part of or in combination with the vessel’s sewage and graywater 

discharge record book required under 33 CFR §159.315. 

5.2.2.3 Treated Pool and Spa Discharges 

Vessel owners/operators must monitor chlorine or bromine concentrations (as applicable) in pool 

or spa water before every discharge event using sufficiently sensitive 40 CFR Part 136 methods 

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Final 2013 VGP

if they will discharge these streams directly into waters subject to this permit to ensure that the 

dechlorination/debromination process is complete. If vessel owners/operators are monitoring 

bromine concentrations, they may use a field test kit which uses the colorimetric method in lieu 

of 40 CFR Part 136 methods to ensure waters have been debrominated, provided that test kit has 

a method detection limit no higher than 50 μg/l. You must record the location of the discharge, 

the estimated volume of the discharge, and the concentration of chlorine or bromine (as 

applicable). Records of this monitoring must be kept with other graywater monitoring records. 

For chlorine, analytical results below the method detection limit shall be deemed compliant with 

the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method with a detection limit no higher 

than 10.0 μg/L under ideal conditions. EPA recommends Method SM4500-CL G (DPD 

Colorimetric Method) for these purposes as it is able to reach 10 μg/l under ideal conditions and 

so meets these requirements. SM4500-Cl G is typically the method that ADEC/U.S. Coast Guard 

uses for compliance monitoring. For bromine, analytical results below the method detection limit 

shall be deemed compliant with the effluent limits, provided the permittee uses a testing method 

with a detection limit no higher than 50.0 μg/l.

5.2.3 Educational and Training Requirements 

The crews of cruise ships play a key role in minimizing the discharge of pollutants from cruise 

ship operations and passengers. Therefore, cruise ship operators are responsible for providing the 

following educational and training requirements to ship personnel: 

• The ship’s crew members who actively take part in the management of the 

discharge or who may affect the discharge must receive training regarding 

shipboard environmental procedures and must be able to demonstrate proficiency 

in implementing these procedures; 

• Advanced training in shipboard environmental management procedures must be 

provided for those directly involved in managing specific discharge types or areas 

of the ship and these crew members must be able to demonstrate proficiency in 

implementing these procedures; and 

• Appropriate reprimand procedures must be developed for crew whose actions lead 

to violations of any effluent limit set forth in this permit or procedures established 

by the cruise ship operator to minimize the discharge of pollutants. 

Cruise ships must also educate passengers on their potential environmental impacts. The goals of 

these education efforts must include preventing trash from entering any waste stream, 

eliminating the addition of unused soaps, detergents, and pharmaceuticals to the graywater or 

blackwater systems, and minimizing production of graywater. This can be accomplished in a 

variety of ways including, but not limited to, posting signage and informational material in 

guestrooms and common areas, incorporating environmental information passenger orientation 

presentations or packages at the start of cruises, incorporating this information into additional 

lectures and seminars, or broadcasting information via loudspeakers. 

Vessel owner/operators must also meet all training-related recordkeeping requirements of Part 

4.2 of this permit. 

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5.3 Large Ferries

Ferries are vessels for hire that are designed to carry passengers and/or vehicles between two 

ports, usually in inland, coastal, or near-shore waters. “Large Ferry” means a “ferry” that: a) has 

a capacity greater than or equal to 100 tons of cargo (e.g., for cars, trucks, trains, or other landbased transportation); or b) is authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry 250 or more people. 

All large ferries authorized to carry 100 or more tons of cars, trucks, trains, or other land-based 

transportation must meet the requirements in Part 5.3.1.1 (Deck Water) and Part 5.3.2 (Education 

and Training). Large ferries authorized by the Coast Guard to carry 250 or more people must 

also meet the requirements of Part 5.3.1.2 (Graywater Management) and Part 5.3.2 (Education 

and Training Requirements).

5.3.1 Additional Effluent Limits

5.3.1.1 Deck Water

Large ferries may not discharge untreated below deck water from parking areas or other storage 

areas for motor vehicles or other motorized equipment into waters subject to this permit without 

first treating the effluent with an oily water separator or other appropriate wastewater treatment 

system. Large ferry operators must use oil absorbent cloths or other appropriate spill response 

resources to clean oily spills or substances from deck surfaces. Any effluent created by washing 

the decks may not be discharged into the waters subject to this permit listed in Appendix G. 

5.3.1.2 Graywater Management

5.3.1.2.1 Graywater Discharge Location and Rate 

Pierside Limits – While pierside, appropriate onshore reception facilities for graywater must be 

used, if available and their use is economically achievable, unless the vessel treats graywater to 

the limits found in Part 5.1.1.1.2 of the permit. If such facilities are not available, you must hold 

the graywater if the vessel has the holding capacity and discharge the effluent while the vessel is 

underway. Appropriate reception facilities are those authorized for use by the port authority or 

municipality and that treat the discharge in accordance with its NPDES permit. 

Operational Limits – You must also meet the following restriction: if you operate within 3 nm 

from shore, discharges of graywater may only be released while the ferry is sailing at a speed of 

at least 6 knots if feasible. If not feasible, you must document why in your recordkeeping 

documentation. 

5.3.2 Educational and Training Requirements

The crews of ferries play a key role in minimizing the discharge of pollutants from ferry 

operations and its passengers. Therefore, ferry operators are subject to the following 

requirements:

• The ship’s crew members who actively take part in the management of the 

discharge or who may affect the discharge must receive training regarding 

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shipboard environmental procedures and must be able to demonstrate proficiency 

in implementing these procedures; 

• Advanced training in shipboard environmental management procedures must be 

provided for those directly involved in managing specific discharge types or areas 

of the ship and these crew must be able to demonstrate proficiency in 

implementing these procedures; and 

• Appropriate reprimand procedures must be developed for crew whose actions lead 

to violations of any effluent limit set forth in this permit or procedures established 

by the ferry operator to minimize the discharge of pollutants. 

Ferry operators must also educate passengers on their potential environmental impacts. The goals 

of these education efforts should include eliminating the discharge of trash overboard, 

minimizing the production of trash from parking areas or other storage areas, eliminating the 

addition of unused soaps, detergents, and pharmaceuticals to the graywater or blackwater 

systems, and minimizing production of graywater. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways 

including, but not limited to, posting signage and informational material in common areas, 

incorporating environmental information into orientation presentations, or broadcasting 

information via loudspeakers. 

Vessel owners/operators of large ferries must also meet all training-related recordkeeping 

requirements of Part 4.2 of this permit. 

5.4 Barges (such as Hopper Barges, Chemical Barges, Tank Barges, Fuel Barges, Crane 

Barges, Dry Bulk Cargo Barges) 

The requirements in Part 5.4 apply to vessel discharges from barges. Barges engaged in the 

transportation of oil or other petroleum products must also comply with Part 5.5 of this permit. 

5.4.1 Additional Effluent Limits

Barges must minimize the contact of below deck condensation with oily or toxic materials and 

any materials containing hydrocarbon. Whenever barges are pumping water from below deck, 

the discharge shall not contain oil in quantities that may be harmful as defined in 40 CFR Part 

110. If a visible sheen, as defined in Appendix A of this permit, is noted, vessel operators must 

initiate corrective action in accordance with Part 3 and meet recordkeeping requirements in Part 

4.2 of this permit. 

All tank barges must have spill rails and must mechanically plug their scuppers before any cargo 

operations if required by vessel class society and/or 33 CFR Parts 155 and/or 156. Additionally, 

scuppers, when available, must be mechanically plugged during fueling of ancillary equipment 

(e.g., generators and compressors) located on the deck of the barge. If scuppers are unavailable, 

other types of secondary containment should be employed. If any spills result during loading or 

unloading of cargo, or other ancillary equipment fueling operations, vessel owners/operators 

must completely clean up spills or residue before scuppers are unplugged. 

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Vessel owners/operators must clean out cargo residues (i.e., broom clean or equivalent) such that 

any remaining residue is minimized before washing the cargo compartment or tank and 

discharging washwater overboard. 

5.4.2 Supplemental Inspection Requirements

After every instance of pumping water from areas below decks, or immediately following 

washing down the decks, you must conduct a visual sheen test. The visual sheen test is used to 

detect free oil by observing the surface of the receiving water for the presence of an oily sheen. 

The operator should focus the inspection on the area surrounding the vessel where discharges 

from below deck or deck washings are discharges into the receiving water. A visible sheen is 

defined in Appendix A of this permit. If a visible sheen is observed, you must initiate corrective 

actions required in Part 3 of this permit and meet recordkeeping and notification (reporting) 

requirements in Part 4.2 of this permit. 

5.5 Oil Tankers, Petroleum Tankers, and Bulk Chemical Carriers

The requirements in Part 5.5 apply to vessel discharges from oil tankers, petroleum tankers, and 

bulk chemical carriers, as well as barges engaged in transportation of oil or petroleum products. 

5.5.1 Additional Authorized Discharges 

For vessels which have an inert gas system, the effluent produced from inert gas scrubbers (IGS) 

may be discharged into waters subject to this permit. 

The discharges of water from deck seals are authorized when such seals are installed as an 

integral part of an IGS system.

5.5.2 Additional Effluent Limits 

Owners/operators of oil tankers must plug scuppers during cargo loading and unloading 

operations to prevent the discharge of oil into waters subject to this permit. Any oil spilled must 

be cleaned with oil absorbent cloths or another appropriate approach. Additionally, 

owners/operators of oil tankers must comply with applicable requirements of 33 CFR §155.310 

and 33 CFR Part 156, Subpart A. 

Vessel owners/operators must minimize the discharge of effluent produced from inert gas 

scrubbers if feasible for their vessel design. 

5.5.3 Supplemental Inspection Requirements

After every instance of loading or unloading operations or immediately following washing down 

the decks, you must conduct a visual sheen test. The visual sheen test is used to detect free oil by 

observing the surface of the receiving water for the presence of an oily sheen. The 

owner/operator should focus the inspection on the area surrounding the vessel where effluent 

from loading operations or deck washings discharge into the receiving water. A visible sheen is 

defined in Appendix A of this permit. If a visible sheen is observed, you must comply with all 

requirements contained in Part 4.4 of this permit, initiate corrective actions required in Part 3 of 

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this permit, and meet recordkeeping and notification (reporting) requirements in Part 4.2 of this 

permit. 

5.5.4 Educational and Training Requirements

The crews of oil tankers play a key role in minimizing the discharge of pollutants from vessel 

operations. Therefore, oil tanker operators are subject to the following requirements: 

• The ship’s crew members who actively take part in the management of the 

discharge or who may affect the discharge must receive training regarding 

shipboard environmental procedures and must be able to demonstrate proficiency 

in implementing these procedures; 

• Advanced training in shipboard environmental management procedures must be 

provided for those directly involved in managing specific discharge types or areas 

of the ship and these crew must be able to demonstrate proficiency in 

implementing these procedures; and 

• Appropriate reprimand procedures must be developed for crew actions that lead to 

violations of any effluent limit set forth in this permit or procedures established 

by the vessel operator to minimize the discharge of pollutants.

Vessel owners/operators of tankers must also meet all training-related recordkeeping 

requirements of Part 4.2 of this permit. 

5.6 Research Vessels

The requirements in Part 5.6 apply to vessel discharges from research vessels. Research vessels 

are those that are engaged in investigation or experimentation aimed at discovery and 

interpretation of facts, revision of accepted theories or laws in the light of new facts, or practical 

application of such new or revised theories or laws. 

5.6.1 Supplemental Authorized Discharges

In addition to the discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel authorized elsewhere 

in this permit, owners/operators of research vessels are authorized to discharge tracers (dyes, 

fluorescent beads, SF6), drifters, tracking devices and the like, and expendable 

bathythermograph (XBT) probes, into waters subject to this permit, provided such discharges are 

for the sole purpose of conducting research on the aquatic environment or its natural resources in 

accordance with generally recognized scientific methods, principles, or techniques. 

5.6.2 Additional Effluent Limits

Owners/operators of research vessels must discharge only the minimal amount of materials 

referenced in Part 5.6.1 necessary to conduct research on the aquatic environment or its natural 

resources in accordance with generally recognized scientific methods, principles, or techniques. 

5.7 Emergency and Rescue Vessels (Fire Boats, Police Boats)

The requirements in Part 5.7 apply to vessel discharges from emergency and rescue boats.

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5.7.1 Supplemental Authorized Discharges

In addition to the discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel authorized elsewhere 

in this permit, owners/operators of emergency and rescue vessels are authorized to discharge 

waste streams in conjunction with training, testing, and maintenance operations, provided that 

they comply with all additional requirements of the CWA (e.g., section 311) and the National 

Contingency Plan (40 CFR Part 300). This part does not relieve vessel operators of any 

additional responsibilities under the CWA and the National Contingency Plan which prohibits 

the discharge of oil for research or demonstration purposes without Administrator approval. The 

use of foaming agents for oil or chemical fire response must be implemented in accordance with 

the National Contingency Plan (40 CFR Part 300). 

5.7.2 Additional Effluent Limits 

Owners/operators are strongly encouraged to seek alternative formulations of AFFF that are less 

harmful to the aquatic environment, such as non-fluorinated foam, while maintaining their 

effectiveness in emergency operations. Furthermore, operators are encouraged to not use AFFF 

or discharge toxic substances in areas near active commercial or recreational fisheries, near 

swimmable waters, or in high traffic areas for maintenance or training purposes. Emergency 

vessel owners/operators are also encouraged to perform training, testing, and maintenance 

operations outside of port and as far from shore as possible. The use of foaming agents for oil or 

chemical fire response, and the control of their discharge from a vessel, must be implemented in 

accordance with the National Contingency Plan (40 CFR Part 300). 

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6. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUAL STATES OR INDIAN COUNTRY LANDS

Section 401(d) of the CWA provides that any certification under the Act "shall set forth any 

effluent limitations and other limitations, and monitoring requirements" necessary to assure that 

any applicant for a federal license or permit will comply with any applicable CWA-based 

effluent limitations and other limitations, standards of performance, prohibitions, effluent 

standards, or pretreatment standards, and with any other appropriate requirements of State and 

Tribal law. Section 401(d) further provides that such additional limitations and monitoring 

requirements "shall become a condition on any Federal license or permit subject to the 

provisions of this section." Pursuant to section 401(d), EPA has attached those provisions 

provided by States and Tribes in their CWA § 401 certifications that constitute effluent or other 

limitations or monitoring requirements as enforceable conditions of this permit3

. 

The VGP is effective in every State and Indian Country Land except in the waters of The Bad 

River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians and Oklahoma Outstanding Resource 

Waters listed4

. States and Indian Tribes which are not listed below have either certified without 

conditions or waived. 

The following States or Tribes included additional permit requirements in their CWA § 401 

certification:

6.1 Alaska

Alaska certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

Terms

6.1.1 This Section 401 certification shall become effective on the date when EPA's final VGP 

becomes effective.

6.1.2 For violations that occur within State waters, permittees shall notify and provide DEC 

electronic copies of any noncompliance reports required under 40 CFR 122.44(i)(5). 

6.1.3 Owners or operators of large and small commercial passenger vessels are responsible for 

complying with all Alaska statutes, regulations, and wastewater discharge requirements.

Conditions

6.1.4 All discharges authorized by the VGP to waters of the United States extending to the threemile demarcation of the territorial seas and inland or coastal waters of the State of Alaska 

shall not result in a violation of Alaska water quality criteria, found in 18 AAC 70, in the 

water body. 

Rationale: Vessel operators must treat wastewater and/or implement the BMPs in the VGP 

and ensure discharges comply with the applicable water quality criteria for the subject water 

body. 

3 State 401 certification letters are available in the docket for today’s permit which are available as PDFs by linking 

to EPA’s website at: www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels.

4 Oklahoma’s list of Outstanding Resource Waters are attached to their 401 certification letter which is available as a 

PDF file by linking to EPA’s website at: www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels.

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6.1.5 Permittees covered under the VGP shall undertake immediate corrective actions to mitigate 

noncompliance or violations with any terms or conditions specified in this Section 401 

certification. EPA's regulation of vessels under the VGP shall not preclude DEC from 

regulating vessels or taking enforcement action authorized by Alaska law.

Rationale: EPA is the primary authority responsible for ensuring compliance with the EPAissued VGP. However, the Department does not waive its rights to regulate vessels and or 

take enforcement action in accordance with Alaska law.

6.1.6 Permittees must be aware of the status of the water bodies they are traveling through, 

specifically whether the water bodies are impaired and have, or do not have, an EPAapproved Total Maximum Daily Load implementation plan prepared under CWA 303(d). 

Rationale: The location of impaired waters of the United States must be known prior to the 

discharge activity. The permittees are responsible for identifying areas where discharges are 

prohibited, including accessing CWA 303(d) list of impaired waters or the State's most 

current Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report.

6.2 Arizona

Arizona certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.2.1 Discharges authorized by these general permits shall not:

a. Violate Arizona's Surface Water Quality Standards (A.A.C. Title 18, Chapter 11, Article 

1). 

b. Contain a hazardous substance as defined in A.R.S. §49-201(19). Additionally, the 

following wastes are prohibited from being discharged into waters of the state under this 

permit: sewage sludge, wastewater, used or spent oil, garbage or trash. In addition, 

A.A.C. R18-11-123(B) prohibits the discharge of human body wastes and the wastes 

from toilets and other receptacles intended to receive or retain wastes from a vessel to 

Lake Powell.

c. Contain oil, grease, or any other pollutant that floats as debris, foam, or scum; or that 

causes a film or iridescent appearance on the surface of the water; or that causes a deposit 

on a shoreline, bank, or aquatic vegetation. The discharge of lubricating oil or gasoline 

associated with the normal operation of a recreational watercraft is not a violation of this 

narrative standard (A.A.C. R1 8-11-108(B)). 

d. Contain suspended solids in quantities or concentrations that interfere with the treatment 

processes at the nearest downstream potable water treatment plant or substantially

increase the cost of handling solids produced at the nearest downstream potable water 

treatment plant (A.A.C. R18-11-108(C)).

6.2.2 If ballast water receives chlorination treatment prior to discharge, the discharge must not

exceed a maximum level of 19 μg/L of total residual chlorine (A.A.C. Title 18, Chapter 11, 

Article 1, Appendix A, Table 1). 

6.2.3 This certification does not relieve the authorized permittee of the responsibility of obtaining 

any other permits or authorizations that may be required for this project or related activities 

from ADEQ or any other agency. 

6.2.4 To prevent the propagation and spread of invasive species to waters of the state, before 

transporting any watercraft or vessel to any waters located within or bordering this State from 

waters or locations where aquatic invasive species are suspected or known to be present, 

permittees shall comply with the Vessel Decontamination Best Management Practices that 

follow (A.R.S. § 49-203(A)(7)). 

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Vessel Decontamination Best Management Practices

a. Short-term Day-use Boaters- One to five (1-5) days on the water: 

i. CLEAN the hull and remove any clinging materials. 

ii. DRAIN (remove the bilge plug) the water from the engine, bilge, livewell(s), etc.

iii. DRY the whole boat and equipment. 

iv. If possible, treat any standing water (in bilge, bottom of boat) or other boat 

surfaces with vinegar.

b. Long-term Moored Boats (e.g. in marinas)- more than five (5) days on the water: 

v. CLEAN, DRAIN (remove the bilge plug) and DRY 

vi. REMOVE all attached mussels

vii. DESICCATE the boat. Keep the boat out of the water for a minimum of seven 

(7) days in the spring, summer, and fall, and a minimum of 18 days in the winter 

to kill all hidden quagga mussels. 

Additional information regarding these Best Management Practices related to the control 

of invasive aquatic species can be found at: www.azgfd.gov/mussels, or by contacting the 

Arizona Game and Fish Department 

6.3 Arkansas

Arkansas certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.3.1 If a discharger has any violation of any effluent limit in the VGP or sVGP, they must 

document the violation and notify the Department by telephone within 24 hours (501-682-

0640) and by written notice within three days of identification of the violation. They must 

report the following items to the Department: 

a. A description of the violation,

b. Date of the violation,

c. Estimated volume of discharge involved in violation,

d. Location at time of violation,

e. Description of any corrective actions that are planned,

f. Identification of any hazardous substances, if known to be present.

6.3.2 All uncontained spills not covered by the VGP or sVGP of more than one gallon liquid or 

four pounds dry weight must be reported to the Water Division Enforcement Branch of 

ADEQ within 24 hours by Telephone (501-682-0640) and by written notice within three 

days. Dischargers are responsible for the cost of cleanups resulting from spills by their 

operations. 

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6.3.3 This Department does not support coverage under the VGP or sVGP in Ecologically 

Sensitive Waters (ESWs) and Natural and Scenic Waterways (NSWs), as designated in 

Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecology Commission (APC&EC) Regulation No. 2. 

6.4 California 

California certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

This Order includes Attachments 1-3.5

 Following is a description of these attachments:

• Attachment 1 -Signatory Requirements

• Attachment 2 -List of Chemical Names and Common Names for Hazardous Wastes and 

Hazardous Materials from title 22, chapter 11, appendix X of the California Code of 

Regulations

• Attachment 3 -Effluent Limitations Based on Narrative Objectives in the California Ocean

Plan and Regional Water Quality Control Plans (Basin Plans)

6.4.1 All discharges are prohibited in state Water Quality Protection Areas as defined in the Public 

Resources Code sections 36700- 36900 inclusive, and the California Ocean Plan, except for 

those discharges that occur in transit associated with vessel traffic separation lanes. (Auth: 33 

U.S.C. § 1313; Pub. Resources Code,§ 36710; Wat. Code,§ 13140. This condition cannot be 

made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality 

standards.)

6.4.2 Large passenger vessel and cruise ship graywater discharges are prohibited in state waters. 

Graywater discharges from oceangoing vessels that weigh 300 gross tons or more are also 

prohibited if such vessels have sufficient holding capacity. Any co-mingling of black water 

(sewage) and graywater waste streams will be considered graywater for purposes of these 

conditions as stated in section 2.2.25 of the 2013 VGP. (Auth: Pub. Resources Code,§ 72400 

et seq. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of 

state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.3 Vessel discharges shall comply with all requirements and discharge prohibitions set forth in 

the California Clean Coast Act of 2005. (Auth: Pub. Resources Code, § 72400 et seq. This 

condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, 

including water quality standards.) 

6.4.4 A monitoring study shall be conducted in order to provide the State Water Board an adequate 

representative characterization of the discharges from vessels. The representative monitoring 

study requirement is designed to efficiently gather and present representative water quality 

data on the impacts of these discharges. The data will be used to determine if any future 

changes to the conditions are necessary for compliance with the California Ocean Plan 

numeric objectives, Basin Plans numeric objectives, and the California Toxics Rule criteria. 

Additionally, a collaborative, representative monitoring program is designed to minimize the 

costs for individual dischargers and the aggregate costs for individual vessel owners and 

operators as a whole.

5 These attachments are available as a PDF file with California’s 401 certification letter. This information is 

available by linking to EPA’s website at: www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels.

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Vessels that do not discharge any waste streams into waters of the state during the 2013 

VGP cycle are not subject to this requirement. However, a copy of the USEPA NOI (or 

when applicable, PARI form), USEPA Acknowledgement Letter, and applicable fee shall 

be submitted.

Any vessels that do not make their first port of call in California until the last calendar

year of the 2013 VGP cycle shall be exempt from participating in this monitoring study.

The representative regional/group monitoring program (Representative Monitoring Study) 

shall be developed in consultation with State Water Board staff. The monitoring study 

shall include representative sampling for each vessel class. A draft study design will be 

developed by no later than December 1, 2013, and is subject to the approval by the 

Executive Director of the State Water Board.

The Final Report for the Representative Monitoring Study must be submitted to the 

Executive Director of the State Water Board by the end of the 2013 VGP cycle. (Auth: 

Wat. Code, §§ 13260.1, 13267, 13383. This condition cannot be made less stringent 

without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.5 None of the 27 discharges covered by the VGP may contain hazardous waste as defined in 

the California Code of Regulations, title 22, section 66261 and Water Code section 13173, as 

well as hazardous substances listed in Attachment 2 of this Order, which includes bilgewater. 

Additionally, the following wastes are prohibited from being discharged: noxious liquid 

substance residues, used or spent oil, garbage or trash/plastic (In compliance with the 

applicable California Basin Plans), sewage sludge, photo-developing wastes, dry cleaning 

wastes, and medical wastes. By signing USEPA's NOI (or when applicable, the PARI form), 

the vessel owner/operator certifies that hazardous and prohibited wastes as defined under 

California law, will not be discharged from a covered vessel or vessels. Upon receipt of 

USEPA's NOI (or when applicable, PARI form) Acknowledgement Letter, the vessel 

owner/operator shall submit a copy of the letter along with the fee required per Cal. Code 

Regs., tit. 23, § 2200. 

The vessel owner/operator shall submit the fee and a copy of USEPA's NOI (or when 

applicable, PARI form) Acknowledgment Letter to: 

NPDES Unit

Division of Water Quality

State Water Resources Control Board

1001 I Street, 15th Floor 

Sacramento, CA 95814 

(Auth: See generally, statewide and regional water quality control plans; 33 U.S.C.§ 1313; 

Pub. Resources Code, § 72420.2; Wat. Code, §§ 13140, 13173, 13240, 13260.1, 13267, 

13383; Cal. Code Regs., tit. 22, § 66261. This condition cannot be made less stringent 

without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.6 There shall be no oily sheen from any discharge, and oil and grease shall not exceed 15 

milligrams per liter (mg/L) from any discharge as stated in section 2.1.4 of the VGP. (Auth: 

See generally, statewide and regional water quality control plans; 33 U.S.C. § 1313; Wat. 

Code,§§ 13140, 13240. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards.) 

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6.4.7 Detergents shall not be used to disperse hydrocarbon sheens in any waste streams. To ensure 

this practice is implemented for all state waters, and additionally to protect drinking water 

sources, such as sources in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Delta, methylene blue active 

substances (MBAS) are not to exceed 0.5 mg/L in any waste streams being discharged, 

applicable to all water bodies. (Auth: See generally, statewide and regional water quality 

control plans; 33 U.S.C. § 1313; Wat. Code,§§ 13140, 13240. This condition cannot be made 

less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality 

standards.)

6.4.8 Vessel discharges shall comply with California State Lands Commission (SLC) requirements 

for ballast water discharges and hull fouling to control and prevent the introduction of 

nonindigenous species, found in Public Resources Code, section 71200 et seq. and California 

Code of Regulations, title 2, division 3, chapter 1, articles 4.5 through 4.8, inclusive. (Auth: 

Pub. Resources Code,§ 71200 et seq. and Cal. Code Regs, tit. 2, div. 3, ch. 1, arts. 4.5 through 

4.8. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of state 

law, including water quality standards.)

6.4.9 The SLC has jurisdiction over vessels that are 300 gross registered tons and above that carry 

or are capable of carrying ballast water. Vessels entering state waters that fall within this 

description shall complete the SLC forms found in the following Marine Invasive Species 

Program (MISP) Compliance and Reporting Documents page: 

http://www.slc.ca.gov/spec_pub/mfd/ballast_water/Compliance_Rptng_Docs.html 

Forms are subject to change. Please use the most updated forms.

(Auth: Pub. Resources Code,§ 71200 et seq. and Cal. Code Regs, tit. 2, div. 3, ch. 1, arts.

4.5 through 4.8. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.10 Propeller cleaning is allowed until the biofouling management regulations for vessels are 

adopted by the SLC and become effective. After the SLC biofouling management regulations 

become effective, propeller cleaning is allowed as specified in those regulations. All other inwater hull cleaning is prohibited unless conducted using the best available technologies 

economically feasible, as determined by State Water Board staff in consultation with SLC 

staff. This prohibition includes underwater ship husbandry discharges (VGP Discharge No. 

23). (Auth: Pub. Resources Code,§ 71200 et seq. and Cal. Code Regs, tit. 2, div. 3, ch. 1, arts. 

4.5 through 4.8. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.11 If the ballast water receives chlorination treatment, the discharge to the ocean shall not 

exceed a maximum level of 60 micrograms per liter (μg/L) of total residual chlorine, and the 

discharge to inland waters, enclosed bays, and freshwaters shall not exceed a maximum level 

of 19 μg/L of total residual chlorine. (The Gold Book, U.S. EPA 440/5-86-001, May 1986.) 

(Auth: See generally, statewide and regional water quality control plans; 33 U.S.C. § 1313; 

Wat. Code,§§ 13140, 13240, 13377; Cal. Code Regs., tit. 23, § 2235.2. This condition cannot 

be made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality 

standards.)

6.4.12 Vessel discharges must comply with the applicable statewide water quality control plans and 

Basin Plans. Attachment 3 lists the effluent limitations based on the narrative water quality 

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objectives cited in these plans that shall be met in the receiving water. (Auth: See generally, 

statewide and regional water quality control plans; 33 U.S.C. § 1313; Wat. Code, §§ 13140, 

13240. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of 

state law, including water quality standards.) 

6.4.13 Allowance for emergency conditions: In the case of a sudden unexpected situation which 

involves a clear and imminent danger to life, health, or property, the requirements of this 

Certification are suspended to the extent that those requirements would otherwise be violated. 

Any suspension of the requirements of this Certification is only permitted as long as the 

emergency conditions persist. In such cases the vessel owner/operator shall report to State 

Water Board staff the emergency conditions requiring the violation of Certification 

conditions, the specific conditions that were violated, the duration of the violation, and nature 

of discharges during that emergency period and the location of the emergency discharge. This 

report shall be transmitted to the State Water Board staff within 24 hours after the emergency 

conditions cease. In the event that the State Water Board staff determines that the 

circumstances do not constitute an emergency, the State Water Board may seek appropriate 

investigatory or enforcement action pursuant to Administrative Condition No.6.4.15. (Auth: 

Pub. Resources Code, § 21080; Wat. Code, § 1058; Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15359. This 

condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, 

including water quality standards.) 

Submit report electronically to: calvgp cert@waterboards.ca.gov

6.4.14 The owner or operator of a large passenger vessel shall notify the California Emergency 

Management Agency (Cal EMA) immediately, but not longer than 30 minutes, after the 

discovery of a release of graywater or sewage into the marine waters of the state or a marine 

sanctuary. The owner or operator of an oceangoing ship with sufficient holding tank capacity 

shall notify Cal EMA immediately, but not longer than 30 minutes, after the discovery of a 

release of graywater or sewage into the marine waters of the state or a marine sanctuary. The 

owner or operator of a large passenger vessel or an oceangoing ship shall notify Cal EMA 

immediately, but not longer than 30 minutes, after the discovery of a release of hazardous 

waste, other waste, sewage sludge, or oily bilgewater into the marine waters of the state or a 

marine sanctuary.

Cal-EMA Office of Emergency Services hotline: (800) 852-7550

(Auth: Pub. Resources Code, § 72400 et seq. This condition cannot be made less stringent

without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality standards.)

ADMINISTRATIVE CONDITIONS:

6.4.15 In response to a suspected violation of any condition of this Certification, the State Water 

Board may require a vessel owner/operator to furnish, under penalty of perjury, any technical 

or monitoring reports the State Water Board deems appropriate, provided that the burden, 

including costs, of the reports shall bear a reasonable relationship to the need for the reports 

and the benefits to be obtained from the reports. (Auth: Wat. Code, §§ 13267, 13383. This 

condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, 

including water quality standards.) 

6.5 Connecticut

Connecticut certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

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GENERAL CONDITIONS

6.5.1 Any vessel that discharges or intends to discharge into Connecticut waters under the VGP 

must submit to DEEP a copy of the Notice of Intent (NOI) or the Permit Authorization and 

Record of Inspection Form (PARI) submitted to EPA. Additionally, all reports required to be 

submitted to EPA under Appendices F through J of the VGP must also be submitted to 

DEEP. This condition is necessary for compliance with CGS sections 22a-430, 22a-430b, and 

22a-430c. The preferred method of submission is via electronic mail to 

dep.webmaster@ct.gov sent to the attention of the Director of Water Permitting and 

Enforcement. Submissions made via standard mail shall be directed to:

The Director of Water Permitting and Enforcement

Bureau of Materials Management and Compliance Assurance

Department of Energy and Environmental Protection 

79 Elm Street

Hartford, Connecticut 06106-5127 

6.5.2 The operator of any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP who by accident, negligence, or 

otherwise causes the discharge, spillage, uncontrolled loss, seepage or filtration of oil or 

petroleum or chemical liquids or solid, liquid or gaseous products, or hazardous wastes which 

poses a potential threat to human health or the environment, shall immediately report to 

DEEP by telephone at 860-424-3338 or 866-337-7745. This condition is necessary for 

compliance with CGS section 22a-450.6

6.5.3 All work and activities conducted by the permittee in accordance with the VGP or sVGP shall 

be consistent with the terms and conditions of this certification. Any regulated activities 

carried out in a manner inconsistent with the conditions set forth herein or inconsistent with 

the requirements specified in the VGP or sVGP, which are not more stringently conditioned 

under this certification, constitute a violation of this certification pursuant to 40 CFR 

§124.53(e)(1), and all instances of non-compliance with this certification must be 

immediately reported to DEEP pursuant to CGS section 22a-450 as set forth in General 

Condition No. 6.5.2, above.

6.5.4 All vessels covered by the VGP or sVGP shall minimize point and non-point sources of 

phosphorus, nitrogen, and alkylphenol ethoxylates, which have the potential to contribute to 

the impairment of any Connecticut surface water. The loading of nutrients, principally 

phosphorus and nitrogen, to any surface water body shall not exceed that which supports 

maintenance or attainment of designated uses. This condition is necessary to restore impaired 

waters, and prevent excessive anthropogenic inputs of nutrients or impairment of downstream 

waters in compliance with Standards 1, 2, and 19 of the CT WQS.7

6 For additional information see the webpage to Report an Environmental Concern or Problem at www.ct.gov/dep. 7 As identified in Part 2 of the VGP the term "minimize" means reduce and/or eliminate to the extent achievable

using control measures (including best management practices) that are technologically available and economically

practicable and achievable in light of best marine practice.

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6.5.5 Use of Best Management Practices and other reasonable controls are preferable to the use of 

biocides. This condition is necessary for compliance with Standards 1, 2, and 20 of the CT 

WQS.

SPECIFIC CONDITIONS

6.5.6 Discharge of treated or untreated bilgewater into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered 

under the VGP or sVGP is prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance with CGS 

section 22a-427, Standards No. 1, 2, 9, 12, 14, 15, and 24 of the CT WQS, and EPA 

designation of Connecticut coastal waters as No Discharge Areas (NDAs) pursuant to 33 

USC§ 1322(f)(3).8 This condition does not apply to the discharge of bilgewater if the master 

of the vessel determines that compliance with this condition would threaten the safety or 

stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers because of adverse weather, equipment 

failure, or any other relevant condition. 

6.5.7 Discharge of treated or untreated graywater into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered 

under the VGP or sVGP is prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance with CGS 

section 22a-427, Standards No. 1, 2, 9, 12, 14, 15, and 24 of the CT WQS, and EPA 

designation of Connecticut coastal waters as No Discharge Areas (NDAs) pursuant to 33 

USC§ 1322(f)(3).9

6.5.8 The discharge of wastewaters from pressure washing the bottom of vessels and any point 

source or non- point source pollution from spillage, sanding, sand blasting, or scraping 

vessels into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP is 

prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance with CGS section 22a-430 or 22a430b and Standards No. 1 , 2, 12, 14, and 15 of the CT WQS.10

6.5.9 Discharge of exhaust gas scrubber washwater into Connecticut waters from any vessel 

covered under the VGP or sVGP is prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance 

with CGS section 22a-427, StandardsNo.1, 2, 9, 12, 14, 15, and 24 of the CT WQS.

6.5.10 Discharges containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) into Connecticut waters from any 

vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP are prohibited. This condition is necessary for 

compliance with CGS section 22a-427, Standards No. 1, 2, 9, 12, 14, and 15 of the CT WQS. 

6.5.11 Discharge of fish hold effluent from any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP is prohibited 

in open waters of Connecticut's Long Island Sound. This condition is necessary for 

compliance with CGS section 22a-430 or 22a-430b and Standards No. 1, 2, 9 12, and 15 of 

the CT WQS.

8 Standard No. 24 of the CT WQS specifies the discharge of sewage from any vessel to any water is prohibited. 

"Sewage" as defined in CGS section 22a-423 includes bilgewater, which is a domestic or manufacturing waste that 

may tend to be detrimental to the public health. The term "bilgewater" is defined in Appendix A of the VGP and 

Part 6 of the sVGP.

9 Standard No. 24 of the CT WQS specifies the discharge of sewage from any vessel to any water is prohibited. 

Sewage as defined in CGS section 22a-423 includes graywater, which is a domestic or manufacturing waste that 

may tend to be detrimental to the public health. The term "graywater" is defined in Appendix A of the VGP and Part 

6 of the sVGP.

10 Point Source" and "Non-point Source" pollution are defined in Appendix A of the CT WQS

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6.5.12 Any discharge from any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP that results in the further 

degradation of the chemical, physical, or biological integrity of Connecticut waters classified 

as Impaired Waters in the most recent State of Connecticut Integrated Water Quality Report 

to Congress is prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance with Standard 1 of the 

CT WQS.11

6.5.13 Discharges to impaired waters in Connecticut shall be consistent with the requirements of the 

VGP and sVGP and with the following to comply with Standard 1 of the CT WQS: 

Waterbody Contaminant Requirement

Long Island Sound, connected 

harbors, embayments and tidal 

rivers and waterbodies

Nitrogen and other substances 

with a high biological or 

chemical oxygen demand which 

when discharged could result in a 

decrease in the amount of 

dissolved oxygen in the receiving 

water body

Eliminate the discharge of such 

substances or minimize discharge 

of these substances to the greatest 

extent practicable if discharge is 

unavoidable

Within LIS, waters between the 

50ft bathymetric contour and the 

Connecticut coastline

Bacteria

Fecal coliform: Geometric Mean 

less than 14 CFU/100 ml with 

90% of samples less than 31 

CFU/100 ml

Enterococci: Geometric Mean 

less than 35 CFU/100 ml with no 

single sample exceeding 104 

CFU/100 ml

6.5.14 All vessels entering Connecticut waters must maintain the ability to measure salinity levels in 

each ballast water tank onboard the vessel so that salinities between 20 and 25 parts per 

thousand ("ppt") can be ensured for ballast exchange in marine waters and salinities between 

0 and 5 ppt can be ensured for ballast exchange in fresh waters. This condition is necessary to 

meet Standards No. 1, 2, and 12 of the CT WQS. 

6.6 Georgia 

Georgia certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.6.1 All discharges from vessels covered by these permits will be conducted in a manner so as not 

to violate Georgia's water quality standards.

6.6.2 Except for ocean going vessels of 20 tons displacement or more, the discharge of graywater 

shall be through a marine sanitation device that is in compliance with the Federal standards of 

performance and regulations for marine sanitation devices promulgated pursuant to Section 

312 of the Clean Water Act. Georgia DNR or EPD personnel, or other duly authorized 

agents, shall have access to any vessel at reasonable times for the purposes of determining 

compliance with these rules. Georgia Rules for Water Quality Control, 391-3-6-.04. 

11 The most recent State of Connecticut Integrated Water Quality Report containing the updated Connecticut

Impaired Waters List may be obtained at the Water Quality Monitoring Program webpage at www.ct.gov/dep.

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6.7 Hawaii

6.7.1 Coverage of this Conditional WQC

a) This conditional Section 401 WQC covers the discharge from an applicable vessel of one or 

more of the following 27 categories of effluent that have received the best control or 

treatment into waters of the State of Hawaii incidental to the normal operation of the 

applicable vessels (operated in a capacity as a means of transportation) that are eligible for 

permit coverage under Part 1.2 of the proposed 2013 VGP and subject to comply with 

“Technology-Based Effluent Limits and Related Requirements Applicable to all Vessels,” 

“Effluent Limits and Related Requirements for Specific Discharge Categories,” “Additional 

Water Quality-Based Effluent Limits,” and “Vessel-Class-Specific Requirements” as 

specified in §§2.1, 2.2, 2.3 and 5, respectively, of the proposed 2013 VGP: 

(1) Deck Washdown and Runoff and Above Water Line Hull Cleaning. (proposed 

2013 VGP, §1.2.2.1)

(2) Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.2) 

(3) Ballast Water. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.3) 

(4) Anti-fouling Hull Coatings/Hull Coating Leachate. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.4) 

(5) Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.5) 

(6) Boiler/Economizer Blowdown. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.6) 

(7) Cathodic Protection. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.7)

(8) Chain Locker Effluent. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.8) 

(9) Controllable Pitch Propeller and Thruster Hydraulic Fluid and other Oil Sea 

Interfaces including Lubrication Discharges from Paddle Wheel Propulsion, Stern 

Tubes, Thruster Bearings, Stabilizers, Rudder Bearings, Azimuth Thrusters, and 

Propulsion Pod Lubrication, and Wire Rope and Mechanical Equipment Subject to 

Immersion. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.9) 

(10) Distillation and Reverse Osmosis Brine (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.10) 

(11) Elevator Pit Effluent. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.11) 

(12) Firemain Systems. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.12) 

(13) Freshwater Layup. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.13) 

(14) Gas Turbine Wash Water. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.14) 

(15) Graywater. 

Except that Graywater from commercial vessels within the meaning of CWA 

section 312 that are operating in the Great Lakes is excluded from the requirement 

to obtain an NPDES permit (see CWA section 502(6)), and thus is not within the 

scope of this permit. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.15) 

(16) Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.16) 

(17) Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.17) 

(18) Refrigeration and Air Condensate Discharge. (proposed 2013 VGP,§1.2.2.18) 

(19) Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge (Including Non-Contact Engine Cooling 

Water; Hydraulic System Cooling Water, Refrigeration Cooling Water). (proposed 

2013 VGP, 1.2.2.19)

(20) Seawater Piping Bìofouling Prevention. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.20) 

(21) Boat Engine Wet Exhaust. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.21)

(22) Sonar Dome Discharge. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.22) 

(23) Underwater Ship Husbandry. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.23) 

(24) Welldeck Discharges. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.24) 

(25) Graywater Mixed with Sewage from Vessels. (proposed 2013 VGP,§1.2.2.25) 

(26) Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge. (proposed 2013 VGP,§1.2.2.26) 

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(27) Fish Hold Effluent. (proposed 2013 VGP, §1.2.2.27) 

b) Geographical Area Exclusions: 

In addition to water bodies specified in Appendix G of EPA proposed 2013 VGP, discharges 

into following State waters are also excluded from coverage under this conditional Section 

401 WQC. “Owner” or “operator" of a vessel seeking coverage under the proposed 2013 

VGP may submit an individual Application to the Clean Water Branch (CWB), DOH, for 

review and consideration for the processing for an individual Section 401 WQC: 

(1) (A)Natural freshwater lakes, saline lakes, and anchialine pools will be maintained in 

the natural state through Hawaii’s "no discharge" policy for these waters. Waste 

discharge into these waters is prohibited. (see HAR, paragraph 11-54-3 (b) (1)). 

[HAR, Paragraph 11-54-5.2] 

(B)It is the objective of Inland Class 1 waters that these waters remain in their natural 

state as nearly as possible with an absolute minimum of pollution from any 

human-caused source. To the extent possible, the wilderness character of these 

areas shall be protected. Waste discharge into these waters is prohibited. Any 

conduct which results in a demonstrable increase in levels of point or nonpoint 

source contamination in class 1 waters is prohibited. [HAR, Paragraph 11-54-

3(b)(1)] 

“Waste” means sewage, industrial and agricultural matter, and all other liquid, gaseous, or 

solid substance, including radioactive substance, whether treated or not, which may pollute 

or tend to pollute the waters of the State. [HRS, §342 D-1] 

(2) Sewage, whether commingled with graywater or not, shall be disposed at pier side 

collection or treatment system or outside of estuaries or embayments. No new 

treated sewage discharges shall be permitted within estuaries. [HAR, Paragraph 11-

54-3(b)(2)] No new sewage discharges will be permitted within embayments. 

[HAR, Paragraph 11-54-3(c)(2)]

(3) No new industrial discharges shall be permitted within estuaries. [HAR, Paragraph 

11-54-3(b)(2)] No new industrial discharges shall be permitted within embayments. 

[HAR, Paragraph 11-54-3(c)(2)]

(4) This conditional Section 401 WQC does not cover any discharges identified in 

1.2.3 (§§1.2.3.1 through 1.2.3.10) as “not eligible” for coverage under the proposed 

2013 VGP.

6.7.2 Terms of this conditional Section 401 WQC: 

a) This conditional Section 401 WQC for each of the 27 categories of the effluent discharges 

listed Item No. 6.7.1(a), above, shall become effective on December 19, 2013. 

These actions shall not preclude the DOH from taking appropriate enforcement action 

authorized by law. 

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Written notification by the Director under this section is complete upon mailing or 

sending a facsimile or an email transmission of the document or actual receipt of the 

document by the “owner” or “operator” of the vessel. 

b) The “owner” or “operator” of a vessel shall comply with all conditions and requirements

specified in the proposed 2013 VGP. All terms, requirements, limitations, and restrictions

specified in this conditional Section 401 shall constitute as Part 6 of the proposed 2013 VGP

conditions and shall be primarily enforced by the EPA, Region 9, through the compliance of

the proposed 2013 VGP. DOH reserves the right to take appropriate enforcement action

authorized by law.

6.7.3 Validation of this conditional Section 401 WQC coverage for each category of treated 

effluent discharges from a vessel into waters of the State of Hawaii shall become effective 

when the “owner” or “operator” of a vessel submits to the DOH-CWB the notification 

information as required in Item 6.7.4, below, except otherwise notified by the Director in 

writing or through an email that an individual Section 401 is required for the proposed 

effluent discharges from the vessel. Coverage under this conditional Section 401 shall remain 

valid during the period the Director processing the individual Application until such time the 

Director renders its final determination on an individual Application for a Section 401 WQC. 

6.7.4 Notification Requirements: 

The “owner” or “operator” of a vessel seeking coverage for treated effluent discharges to be 

authorized under this conditional Section 401 WQC shall submit the following information 

through DOH-CWB website at: 

http://hawaii.gov/health/environmental/water/cleanwater/forms/wqc-index.html. 

a) Vessel “Owner” or “Operator” Information:

Provide the full legal name(s), street address, contact person's name and position title,

telephone and fax numbers, and email address of the owner(s) and, if applicable, its duly

authorized representative. When the notification is prepared and submitted by the owner's

duly authorized representative, an authorization statement with the owner's original signature

shall also be submitted. Any signatures required in this conditional Section 401 WQC shall be

provided as described in 40 CFR, §122.22(a).

b) Vessel Information

Provide: 

(1) Vessel Name

(2) EPA VGP tracking number (or permit number or both, if applicable) 

(3) Vessel Registered Number

(4) Vessel International Maritime Organization (IMO) number, if applicable

(5) Vessel Call Sign

(6) Flag State/Port of Registry (Complete spellings of state and port city names 

required) 

(7) Type of Vessel (list one primary vessel type, and secondary vessel type where 

appropriate) 

c) Vessel Discharge Information

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List all applicable discharges, from the 27 applicable categories specified in Item 6.7.1(a),

above, vessel may generate.

d) Industrial Effluent Discharge Information 

lf the vessel ever engage in or have capacity to engage in industrial operations, provide the 

type of industrial operation that will generate effluent discharges, i.e., (1) Seafood processing 

(2) Energy Exploration (3) Mining or (4) other.

As specified in §1.2.3.1 of the proposed 2013 VGP, for any discharges identified in the 

proposed 2013 VGP, discharges are not eligible if they contain materials resulting from 

industrial or manufacturing processes onboard or other materials not derived from the normal 

operations of a vessel.

e) Vessel Onboard Treatment Systems and/or Best Control or Best Management Practices 

(BMPs) Measures Information

Provide onboard treatment system is or to be used for any waste stream(s) covered by the 

proposed 2013 VGP such as Ballast Water, Bilgewater, Exhaust Gas Scrubber Effluent, 

Graywater, Graywater mixed with Sewage, and any other treatment system and/or control 

measures, etc., to be used for the category of the proposed effluent discharges:

(1) Specify Discharge stream(s) treated.

(2) Treatment system type/design and manufacturer.

(3) Treatment System Capacity.

(4) Normal Treatment System Flow Rate (gallons/day or liters/day).

(5) Residuals (wastes) generated by this treatment system. 

(6) How they are disposed.

f) Ballast Water Information

(1) lf the vessel is or will be using an experimental ballast water treatment system which 

discharges residual biocides:

(A) Are residual biocide concentrations expected to be below those listed in Part 

2.2.3.5.1.1.5 of the proposed 2013 VGP or this Section 401 WQC, whichever 

is more stringent.

(B) List the biocide residuals or derivatives that may be discharged by the ballast 

water treatment system.

(2) Ballast Water and Invasive Species Management

Specify:

(A) How often is the ballast tank cleaned and sediment disposed of? 

(B) How and where do you typically dispose of ballast tank sediment? 

(C) Does vessel have an existing ballast water management plan? If yes, please 

provide a pdf copy of the ballast water management plan. 

g) Hull Anti-fouling Information

Provide: 

(1) Type of anti-fouling hull coating on the vessel and list specific product: Copper Based 

or Non-Copper Based.

(2) When was anti-fouling hull coating last applied. 

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(3) Describe hull husbandry practices, such as frequency of hull cleaning, method used, 

how niches and propellers are cleaned, etc. 

(4) Date of last hull cleaning.

(5) Date of next scheduled/anticipated hull cleaning.

6.7.5 Discharge Limitations and Reporting Requirements 

a) Pursuant to HAR, §11-54-4(a), all waters shall be free of substances attributable to the 

discharge activities authorized under this conditional Section 401 WQC and EPA 2013 VGP, 

including: 

(1) Materials that will settle to form objectionable sludge or bottom deposits. 

(2) Floating debris, oil, grease, scum, or other floating materials.

(3) Substances in amounts sufficient to produce taste in the water or detectable off flavor 

in the flesh of fish, or in amounts sufficient to produce objectionable color, turbidity or 

other conditions in the receiving waters. 

(4) High or low temperatures; biocides; pathogenic organisms; toxic, radioactive, 

corrosive, or other deleterious substances at levels or in combinations sufficient to be 

toxic or harmful to human, animal, plant, or aquatic life, or in amounts sufficient to 

interfere with any beneficial use of the water.

(5) Substances or conditions or combinations thereof in concentrations which produce 

undesirable aquatic life. 

(6) Soil particles resulting from erosion on land involved in earthwork, such as the 

construction of public works; highways; subdivisions; recreational, commercial, or 

industrial developments; or the cultivation and management of agricultural lands. 

An electronic copy of the HAR, Chapter 11-54 is available at:

http://hawaii.gov/health/environmental/water/cleanwater/forms/wqc-index.html or 

http://gen.doh.hawaii.gov/sites/har/admrules/default.aspx. 

b) Discharges authorized under EPA proposed 2013 VGP shall be monitored and effluent 

quality shall comply with effluent limits specified in “Effluent Limits and Related 

Requirements” of the proposed 2013 VGP. Discharges authorized under EPA proposed 2013 

VGP shall not cause the applicable specific water quality criteria to be violated in the 

receiving waters of the State of Hawaii. When conflict occurs, the most stringent limitation 

applies. Applicable specific water quality criteria are:

(1) HAR, §11-54-5 Uses and specific criteria applicable to inland waters; 

definitions; 

(2) HAR, §11-54-5.1 Inland water areas to be protected;

(3) HAR, §11-54-52 Inland water criteria;

(4) HAR, §11-54-6 Uses and specific criteria applicable to marine waters;

(5) HAR, §11-54-7 Uses and specific criteria applicable to marine bottom

 types; and 

(6) HAR, §11-54-8 Specific criteria for recreational.

c) Parameter and Limitation contained in Table 6.7.1, below, applicable to all discharges from a 

vessel:

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Table 6.7.1 

Parameter Limitation in Fresh waters Limitation in Salt waters Units

Chlorine, Total 

Residual 

Chlorine (TRC)

19.0 13.0 μg/l

pH Shall not deviate more than 0.5 

units from ambient conditions 

and shall not be lower than 5.5 

nor higher than 8.0

Shall not deviate more than 0.5 units from a 

value of 8.1, except at coastal locations where 

and when freshwater form stream, storm drain or 

groundwater discharge may depress the pH to a 

minimum level of 7.0

pH 

Unit

Turbidity 25.0 5.0 NTU

Temperature Shall not vary more than one 

degree Celsius from ambient 

conditions. 

Shall not vary more than one degree Celsius 

from ambient conditions.

°C

Enterococcus Enterococcus content shall not 

exceed a geometric mean of 33 

per one hundred milliliters in not 

less than five samples which 

shall be spaced to cover a period 

between 25 and 30 days. No 

single sample shall exceed the 

single sample maximum of 89 

CFU per 100 milliliters or the 

site-specific one-sided 82 per 

cent confidence limit.

Within 300 meters (one thousand feet) of the 

shoreline, including natural public bathing or 

wading areas, enterococcus content shall not 

exceed a geometric mean of 35 CFU per 100 

milliliters in not less than five samples which 

shall be spaced to cover a period between 

twenty-five and thirty days. No single sample 

shall exceed the single sample maximum of 104 

CFU per 100 milliliters or the site-specific onesided 75 per cent confidence limit. Marine 

recreational waters along sections of coastline 

where enterococcus content does not exceed the 

standard, as shown by the geometric mean test 

described above, shall not be lowered in quality.

CFU

d) Ballast water discharges from "Qualifying Vessels" shall also comply with the provisions of 

HAR, Chapter 13-76. An electronic copy of HAR, Chapter 13-76 is available at: 

https://hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar/rules/ch76pqf. 

The term "Qualifying Vessels," as defined in HAR, Section 13-76-12, means all vessels, 

United States or foreign flagged, carrying ballast water into state marine waters after 

operating outside the EEZ. 

The term "EEZ," as defined in HAR, Section 13-76-12, means the United States exclusive 

economic zone established by Presidential Proclamation No. 5030, dated March 10, 1983, 

which extends from the baseline of the territorial sea of the United States seaward 200 

nautical miles, substantially as defined in federal law 33 CFR 151.2025, dated July 1, 2005. 

e) Discharges from "Commercial Passenger Vessels" shall comply with requirements specified 

in HRS, Sections 342D-102, 342D-103, 342D-104, 342D-105 and 342-106 of PART Vl of 

HRS, Chapter 3420 titled "DISCHARGES FROM COMMERCIAL PASSENGER 

VESSELS."

"Commercial passenger vessel," as defined in HRS, Section 342D-101, means a vessel that 

carries passengers for hire. The term does not include a vessel:

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(1) Authorized to carry fewer than passengers;

(2) That does not provide overnight accommodations for at least 50 passengers for hire, 

determined with reference to the number of lower berths and based on an average of 

two persons per cabin; or 

(3) Operated by the United States or a foreign government. 

f) There shall be no net increase in loadings of pollutant of concerns (POC) attributable to 

vessel's effluent discharges into water quality-limited segments as listed by the DOH under 

CWA, 303(d). POC information for each water body is included in 2008/2010 State of 

Hawaii Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report which is available at: 

http://hawaii.qov/heaith/environmentaI/water/cleanwater/integrated/index.html. 

g) The discharge incidental to normal operation of commercial vessels and commercial fishing 

vessels permitted under the authorization of the proposed 2013 VGP shall not interfere with 

or become injurious to any assigned uses made of (designated uses, as defined in HAR, 

Section 11-54-1, and specified in HAR, Section 11-54-3), or presently in (existing uses, as 

defined in HAR, Section 11-54-1, and specified in HAR, Subsection 11-54-1.1), those waters 

h) Except for non-compliance to Part 2 of the proposed 2013 VGP effluent limits or noncompliance to HAR, Chapter 11-54 requirements, Permittee of the proposed 2013 VGP shall 

retain on board all records, inspection reports, monitoring data, including analytical 

monitoring results from specific discharge types as identified in Parts 2.2.3, 2.2.15, and 

2.2.26 of the proposed 2013 VGP and for specific vessel types in Part 5 of the proposed 2013 

VGP. EPA proposed 2013 VGP Permittee shall submit all records, inspection reports, 

monitoring data to DOH-CWB upon request by the Director. 

EPA proposed 2013 VGP permittee shall report all non-compliance to basic water quality criteria 

applicable to all State waters and analytical monitoring data that exceeds the numerical criteria of 

the State WQS to the DOH-CWB as soon as the Permittee becomes aware of such noncompliance or exceedance. All report(s) shall be submitted on a non-compliance reporting form 

provided by the director in website at https:://ehacloud.doh.hawaii.gov/epermit/View/default.aspx. 

6.7.6 Pursuant to HRS, Section 342D-8, the DOH-CWB may conduct routine inspection of vessel 

covered under this conditional Section 401 WQC, taking color photographs, and to sample 

any effluent discharges.

6.7.7 EPA 2013 VGP Permittee (the “owner” or “operator” of the vessel) shall undertake 

immediate corrective measure(s) to mitigate the noncompliance or violations of HAR, 

Chapter 11-54 or any terms, requirements, limitations, or restrictions specified in this 

conditional Section 401 WQC. 

6.7.8 It shall constitute a violation under HRS, Chapter 342D; HAR, Chapter 11-54; and this WQC 

if any discharges resulting from the activities authorized under the EPA VGP, resulting in any 

noncompliance to terms, requirements, restrictions, or limitations as specified in this WQC. 

The DOH reserves the right to take enforcement actions authorized by law.

6.8 Idaho

Idaho certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.8.1 Receiving Water Body Level of Protection

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All waters in Idaho that receive discharges from vessels will receive, at minimum, Tier 1 

antidegradation protection because Idaho's antidegradation policy applies to all state waters. 

Water bodies that fully support their aquatic life or recreational uses are considered to be 

"high quality waters" and will receive Tier 2 antidegradation protection. For waters which 

have not yet been assessed, DEQ must evaluate on a case-by-case basis whether to apply tier 

2 protections, in addition to tier 1 protections. Although Idaho does not currently have any 

outstanding resource waters (ORWs) designated, it is possible that a water body could be 

designated as an ORW during the life of this permit. Because of this potential, this 

antidegradation review will also assess whether the permit complies with the outstanding 

resource water requirements (Tier 3) of Idaho's antidegradation policy.

6.8.2 Protection and Maintenance of Existing Uses (Tier 1 Protection) 

As noted above, a Tier 1 review is performed for all new or reissued permits or licenses, 

applies to all waters subject to the jurisdiction of the CWA, and requires a showing that 

existing uses and the level of water quality necessary to protect existing uses shall be 

maintained and protected. In order to protect and maintain designated and existing beneficial 

uses, a permitted discharge must comply with narrative and numeric criteria of the Idaho 

WQS, as well as other provisions of the WQS such as Section 055, which addresses water 

quality limited waters.

Water bodies not supporting existing or designated beneficial uses must be identified as water 

quality limited, and a total maximum daily load (TMDL) must be prepared for those 

pollutants causing impairment. A central purpose of TMDLs is to establish wasteload 

allocations for point source discharges, which are set at levels designed to help restore the 

water body to a condition that supports existing and designated beneficial uses. Discharge 

permits must contain limitations that are consistent with wasteload allocations in the 

approved TMDL. A permit with effluent limitations consistent with TMDL wasteload 

allocations will provide the level of water quality necessary to support existing and 

designated uses and therefore satisfies Tier 1 antidegradation requirements.

Currently, there are no TMDLs in the state of Idaho that contain WLAs for discharges from 

vessels. Furthermore, EPA has determined that numeric effluent limits for discharges 

authorized under the VGP and sVGP are impracticable to calculate due to the varied nature of 

discharges from vessels, therefore non-numeric effluent limits contained in both permits 

speak to best management practices (BMPs) for dischargers to comply with. DEQ has 

reviewed the BMPs and has added further conditions on discharges to water bodies which are 

expected to receive discharges from vessels and are currently not meeting Idaho WQS.

Owners or operators of large vessels, covered under the VGP, are required to know whether 

they are discharging to impaired waters. Under the High Priority Provision of Section 055 of 

Idaho's WQS, in absence of a TMDL, there must not be additional loading of a pollutant 

where an impairment caused by that pollutant exists (IDAPA 58.01.02.055.04). Therefore, 

special considerations will need to be taken when discharging to these waters to ensure that 

discharges will not contribute to the impairment. For example, where a water body is 

impaired by metals, the discharger must not engage in activities (i.e. releasing contaminated 

bilgewater) where those pollutants are discharged to the water body, thereby contributing to 

the existing impairment (see Table 6.8.1).

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Idaho state law prohibits discharges of graywater and/or sewage/graywater mixtures in 

certain regions, which are otherwise authorized under this general permit (see "Conditions" 

section). 

The limitations and associated requirements in the 2013 VGP, coupled with other applicable 

state laws, and the conditions set forth in this certification provide DEQ reasonable assurance 

of compliance with IDAPA 58.01.02.051.01 and 58.01.02.052.07. 

6.8.3 Protection of High-Quality Waters (Tier 2 Protection)

As indicated previously, water bodies that fully support their beneficial uses will be provided 

Tier 2 protection. As such, the quality of these waters must be maintained and protected, 

unless it is deemed necessary to accommodate important economic or social development. 

For a reissued permit or license, the effect on water quality is determined by looking at the 

difference in water quality that would result from the activity or discharge as authorized in 

the current permit and the water quality that would result from the activity or discharge as 

proposed in the reissued permit or license (IDAPA 58.01.02.052.06.a). For a new permit or 

license, the effect on water quality is determined by reviewing the difference between the 

existing receiving water quality and the water quality that would result from the activity or 

discharge as proposed in the new permit or license (IDAPA 58.01.02.052.06.a). 

With respect to vessels currently operating in Idaho and discharging to waters of the State, 

DEQ believes that as long as discharges are not increasing, there will be no degradation or 

adverse change in water quality because the new permits are more stringent than the previous 

permits. New or increased discharges however, must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

As a condition of this certification, DEQ is requiring that owners/operators of vessels 

proposing to increase their discharges or number of vessels in their fleet, or those who are 

seeking coverage under the VGP for the first time, contact the appropriate DEQ Regional 

Office (6.8.2) to determine whether additional controls are necessary in order to ensure that 

high quality waters are not degraded. This condition shall ensure compliance with Idaho's tier 

2 antidegradation requirements.

In sum, as long as the vessel operators comply with the terms of the NPDES permit and §401 

certification then there is reasonable assurance that existing and designated beneficial uses 

will be protected and maintained and there will be no degradation or adverse change in water 

quality as required under IDAPA 58.01.02.051.02 and IDAPA 58.01.02.052.06. 

Protection of Outstanding Resource Waters (Tier 3 Protection)

Idaho's antidegradation policy requires that the quality of outstanding resource waters be 

maintained and protected from the impacts of point source discharges. No water bodies in 

Idaho have been designated as outstanding resource waters to date; however, it is possible 

that waters may become designated during the term of these permits. Because of this 

possibility, DEQ has evaluated whether the proposed draft VGP and sVGP comply with the 

ORW antidegradation provision. 

As a condition of this certification, DEQ is requiring any applicant proposing to discharge to 

an ORW, under either permit, to obtain an individual NPDES permit from EPA. This 

requirement complies with Idaho's antidegradation provisions concerning ORWs (IDAPA 

58.01.02.052.09). 

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6.8.4 Permittee Responsibility

Owners and operators of vessels covered by the Vessel General Permit (VGP) and/or the

Small Vessel General Permit are responsible for knowing the current support status of the 

waters in which they operate on and may discharge to. The most current EPA-approved 

IR must be used to determine the support status of the affected water body and can be 

found online: http://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surfacewater/monitoring-assessment/integrated-report.aspx. 

DEQ's webpage also has a link to the state's map-based Integrated Report which presents 

information from the Integrated Report in a searchable, map-based format: 

http://mapcase.deq.idaho.gov/wq2010/.

The information provided in Table 6.8.1 (below) is based on the 2010 Integrated Report and 

is subject to change. As previously stated, discharges must not contain pollutants where the 

receiving water body is identified as "impaired" due to those pollutants (IDAPA

58.01.02.055.04). 

Table 6.8.1. Water bodies expected to receive discharges from vessels, current support status 

(Integrated Report, 2010)

Region Water Body HUC Support Status · Pollutants of Concern

Coeur 

d'Alene

Clark Fork River 17010213 Impaired Cadmium, Copper, Zinc, 

Dissolved Gas Supersaturation, 

Temperature

Coeur d'Alene Lake 17010303 Impaired Cadmium, Lead, Zinc

Kootenai River 17010104 Impaired Temperature

Lake Pend Oreille 17010214 Impaired Mercury, Temperature, 

Dissolved Gas Supersaturation

Pend Oreille River 17010214 

17010216

Impaired Temperature, Dissolved Gas, 

Supersaturation

Priest Lake 17010215 Unassessed N/A

Spokane River 17010305 Impaired Cadmium, Lead, Zinc, 

Phosphorus

Lewiston Clearwater River 17060304 

17060306 

17060308

Multiple 

Categories

Dissolved Gas Supersaturation, 

Sedimentation, Temperature

Dworshak Reservoir 17060308 Unassessed N/A

6.8.5 Reporting New or Increased Discharges, or Increased Fleet Size, to Tier 2 (High- Quality) 

Waters

As a condition of this certification, DEQ is requiring that owners/operators of vessels 

proposing to increase their discharges or number of vessels in their fleet, or those who are 

seeking coverage under the VGP for the first time, contact the appropriate DEQ Regional 

Office (Table 6.8.5) to determine whether additional controls are necessary in order to ensure 

that high quality waters are not degraded. 

6.8.6 Rules Prohibiting Discharges on Certain Water Bodies

Owners and operators of vessels covered by these general permits must be aware of and 

comply with the Panhandle Health District Rules governing discharges from vessels. The 

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discharge of graywater or a sewage/graywater mixture otherwise authorized under this 

general permit is prohibited in certain regions of the state pursuant to IDAPA 

41.01.01.200.01(c). Those areas include Boundary, Bonner, Kootenai, Benewah, and 

Shoshone counties in Northern Idaho (IDAPA 

41.01.01.200.01 et seq.). 

6.8.7 Reporting of Discharges Containing Hazardous Materials or Petroleum Products 

Any spill of hazardous materials must be immediately reported to the appropriate DEQ 

Regional Office (Table 6.8.2). Spills of petroleum products that exceed 25 gallons or that 

cause a visible sheen on nearby surface waters should be reported to DEQ within 24- hours. 

Petroleum product spills of less than 25 gallons or spills that do not cause a sheen on nearby 

surface waters shall be reported to DEQ if clean-up cannot be accomplished within 24-hours 

(IDAPA 58.01.02.850, 58.01.02.851, 58.01.02.852). 

Table 6.8.2. DEQ Regional Office contact information

Regional Office Contact Name Phone Number Email

Coeur d’Alene June Bergquist 208-769-1422 june.bergquist@deq.idaho.gov

Lewiston John Cardwell 208-799-4370 john.cardwell@ deq.idaho.gov

Outside of regular business hours, qualified spills should be reported to the State 

Communications Center (1-800-632-8000 or 208-846-7610). 

6.8.8 Invasive Species

Owners and operators of vessels covered by these general permits must be aware of and 

comply with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture Rules Governing Invasive Species 

(IDAPA 02.06.09). 

6.9 Illinois

Illinois certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.9.1 Discharges of wastestreams containing Bioaccumulative Chemicals of Concern (BCC's) from 

vessel covered by the Vessel General Permit shall be consistent with the provisions of 35 Ill. 

Adm. Code 302.520, 302.521, and 302.530. 

6.9.2 All discharges to Waters of the State from vessels covered by the Vessel General Permit shall 

not cause a violation of Illinois Water Quality Standards, as found at 35 Ill. Adm. Code Part 

302 or effluent standards, as found at 35 Ill. Adm. Code Part 304. 

6.9.3 No effluent from any vessel covered by the Vessel General Permit shall contain settleable 

solids, floating debris, visible oil, grease, scum, or sludge solids pursuant to 35 Ill. Adm. 

Code 304.106. Color, odor, and turbidity must be reduced to below obvious levels, pursuant 

to 35 Ill. Adm. Code 304.106. 

6.9.4 Any vessel covered by the Vessel General Permit employing ballast water treatment systems 

using chlorine in any of its forms, shall not exceed the acute water quality standard for Total 

Residual Chlorine of 0.019 mg/1 or the chronic water quality standard for Total Residual 

Chlorine of 0.011 mg/1, pursuant to 35 Ill. Adm. Code 302.208. In order to demonstrate 

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compliance with the water quality standards above, the discharge of Total Residual Chlorine 

shall not exceed the laboratory quantification level of 0.05 mg/1 using test methods 

equivalent in accuracy to amperometric titration. The usage of other biocides shall not cause 

a violation of applicable water quality standards and shall not be discharged in concentrations 

considered toxic or harmful to aquatic life, pursuant to 35 Ill. Adm. Code 302.210, 302.410 

and 302.540. 

6.9.5 The discharge from any vessel covered by the Vessel General Permit shall be free from any 

substances or combination of substances in concentrations toxic or harmful to human health, 

or to animal, plant or aquatic life, pursuant to 35 Ill. Adm. Code 302.210, 302.410, and 

302.540. 

6.9.6 No bilge or ballast water from vessels covered by the Vessel General Permit which fails to 

meet the effluent standards of 35 Ill. Adm. Code Part 304 shall be discharged to waters of the 

State pursuant to 35 Ill. Adm. Code 308.103. 

6.9.7 Any discharge of sewage from a vessel shall comply with 35 Ill. Adm. Code Part 308 - 

Disposal of Wastes from Watercraft.

6.9.8 The issuance of this certification pursuant to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act does not 

release any dischargers from responsibilities or liabilities for past or future violations of 

federal, state or local laws or regulations, nor does it release any potential dischargers from 

the responsibility of obtaining permits, including any from the IEPA, or other approvals from 

other units of government as may be required by law. 

6.10 Indiana

Indiana certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.10.1 Permittee shall allow the commissioner or an authorized representative of the commissioner 

(including an authorized contractor), upon the presentation of credentials: 

a. to enter and inspect covered vessels;

b. to have access to and copy at reasonable times any records that must be kept under the 

conditions of this certification; 

c. to inspect, at reasonable times, any monitoring or operational equipment or method; 

collection, treatment, pollution management or discharge facility or device; practices 

required by this certification; and 

d. to sample or monitor any discharge of pollutants from covered vessels.

6.10.2 This granting of WQC does not relieve the permittee from the responsibility of obtaining any 

other permits or authorizations that may be required for this project or related activities from 

the IDEM or any other agency or person. 

6.10.3 This certification does not:

a. Authorize impacts or activities outside the scope of this certification;

b. Authorize any injury to permittees or private property or invasion of other private rights, 

or any infringement of federal, state or local laws or regulations;

c. Convey any property rights of any sort, or any exclusive privileges; or 

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d. Preempt any duty to obtain federal, state or local permits or authorizations required by 

law.

6.10.4 The IDEM, for any vessel that qualifies under the terms and conditions of this certification, 

may choose to require an individual WQC if it determines that the vessel would have more 

than minimal impacts to water quality, either viewed individually or collectively with other 

activities that may affect the same waterbody.

6.10.5 Activities authorized by this general permit shall not violate or exceed Indiana's Water 

Quality Standards at 327 IAC 2. 

6.10.6 Oceangoing vessels eligible for coverage under the EPA VGP that enter the great Lakes-St. 

Lawrence Seaway system and are transiting from beyond the 200- nautical-mile Exclusive 

Economic Zone (EEZ) shall perform open ocean ballast water exchange or saltwater flushing 

before entering the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system in order to ensure water quality 

standards are met.

6.10.7 Oceangoing Vessels covered by the EPA VGP shall comply with the following ballast water 

discharge requirements: 

a. For vessels constructed prior to December 1, 2013, and meeting the applicability criteria 

in the federal NPDES permit, treatment shall be installed and operational to meet the 

performance standards for organisms included in EPA VGP by the vessel's first 

scheduled drydocking after January 1, 2016. 

b. For vessels constructed after December 1, 2013, and meeting the applicability criteria in 

the federal NPDES permit, treatment shall be installed and operational to meet the 

performance standards for organisms included in EPA VGP prior to commencement of 

vessel operation in Indiana State waters.

6.10.8 Any vessel discharging ballast water employing ballast water treatment systems using 

chlorine, shall not exceed a maximum total residual chlorine limit of 0.02 mg/1. The usage of 

other biocides shall not cause a violation of applicable water quality standards, and shall not 

be discharged in concentrations considered to be toxic or harmful to aquatic life. 

6.11 Iowa

Iowa certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.11.1 Permittee is responsible for securing and for compliance with such other permits or approvals 

as may be required by the IDNR, federal, state, or local governmental agencies for the project 

activities described.

6.11.2 All discharges to waters of the state of Iowa from vessels covered by the VGP shall not cause 

a violation of Iowa Water Quality Standards, as found at Iowa Administrative Code 567 

Chapter 61. http:/ /www.iowadnr.gov/InsideDNR/RegulatoryWater/WetlandsPermitting.aspx

6.11.3 If the vessel discharges oil or hazardous substances in the water, immediately call the 

National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 (or contact them through their website at: 

www.nrc.uscg.mil) and the IDNR Emergency Response Unit at 1-515-281-8694. 

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6.12 Kansas

Kansas certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

The Permittee shall not cause or contribute to a violation of the following narrative Kansas Surface Water 

Quality Standards [KAR28-16-28E(B)]:

6.12.1 Surface waters shall be free, at all times, from the harmful effects of substances that originate 

from artificial sources of pollution and that produce any public health hazard, nuisance 

condition, or impairment of a designated use.

6.12.2 Hazardous materials derived from artificial sources, including toxic substances, radioactive 

isotopes, and infections microorganisms derived directly or indirectly from point or nonpoint 

sources, shall not occur in surface waters at concentrations or in combinations that jeopardize 

the public health or the survival or well-being of livestock, domestic animals, terrestrial 

wildlife, or aquatic or semiaquatic life.

6.12.3 Surface waters shall be free of all discarded solid materials, including trash, garbage, rubbish, 

offal, grass clippings, discarded building or construction materials, car bodies, tires, wire, and 

other unwanted or discarded materials. The placement of stone and concrete rubble for bank 

stabilization shall be acceptable to the Department, if all other required permits are obtained 

before placement.

6.12.4 Surface waters shall be free of floating debris, scum, foam, froth, and other floating materials 

directly or indirectly attributable to artificial sources of pollution. 

6.12.5 Oil and grease from artificial sources shall not cause any visible film or sheen to form upon 

the surface of the water or upon submerged substrate or adjoining shorelines, nor shall these 

materials cause a sludge or emulsion to be deposited beneath the surface of the water or upon 

the adjoining shorelines. 

6.12.6 Surface waters shall be free of deposits of sludge or fine solids attributable to artificial 

sources of pollution. 

6.12.7 Taste-producing and odor-producing substances or artificial origin shall not occur in surface 

waters at concentrations that interfere with the production of potable water by conventional 

water treatment process, that impart an unpalatable flavor to edible aquatic or semiaquatic life 

or terrestrial wildlife, or that result in noticeable odors in the vicinity of surface waters.

6.12.8 The natural appearance of surface waters shall not be altered by the addition of colorproducing or turbidity-producing substances of artificial origin. 

6.13 Maine

Maine certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.13.1 Draft permit generally. All the conditions set forth in the draft VGP cannot be made less 

stringent without impairing Maine waters for their best usage. These conditions, or equally 

protective conditions, are needed to comply with the Maine State statutes and regulations 

indicated above. In accordance with 40 CFR 124.53(e)(3), this condition cannot be made less 

stringent and still comply with State water quality standards.

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Exchange and flushing for voyages beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone. The operator of 

any vessel covered under the VGP whose voyage originates outside the exclusive economic 

zone and enters Maine waters shall conduct ballast water exchange or flushing beyond the 

EEZ, at least 200 nautical miles from any shore, and in water at least 2,000 meters in depth, 

resulting in salinity levels of at least 30 ppt. These requirements remain in effect regardless of 

whether the vessel is equipped with a ballast water treatment system.

No vessel which operates a treatment system in accordance with Section 2.2.3.5 of the draft 

VGP shall bring ballast water into Maine waters unless its ballast tanks have been exchanged 

or flushed at an ocean location in accordance with the above requirements, and unless any 

water reintroduced into the vessel's tanks is ocean water from that same general location 

which has been treated by the vessel's treatment system prior to entry into Maine waters.

All vessels entering Maine waters must maintain the ability to measure salinity levels in each 

tank onboard the vessel so that salinities of at least 30 ppt can be ensured.

This condition adds no new requirement or deadline for ballast water treatment. The 

requirements and deadlines for ballast water treatment are those specified in the draft VGP, 

Section 2.2.3.5 and Table 6. However, in addition to meeting those requirements, vessel 

operators will need to continue performing exchange or flushing. 

This condition does not apply to vessels: 

a. that either have no ballast tanks or that carry only permanent ballast water, all of which is 

in sealed tanks that are not subject to discharge, or

b. that carry only potable water that meets the requirements of section 2.2.3.5.1.3 of the 

draft VGP in their ballast tanks.

This condition does not apply if the master of the vessel determines that compliance with this 

condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers because of 

adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant condition. If a vessel is unable to 

conduct ballast water exchange or flushing due to serious safety concerns as specified above, the 

operator of any vessel with ballast on board shall take reasonable measures to avoid discharge of 

organisms in ballast water.

6.13.2 Large Commercial Passenger Vessel Specific Conditions.

a. Large Commercial Passengers Vessels12 are prohibited from discharging graywater into 

No Discharge Areas designated pursuant to section 312 of the Act, 33 CFR Part 159 and 

40 CFR Part 140. 

b. Large Commercial Passenger Vessels must report discharges of all blackwater, a mixture 

of blackwater and graywater, or graywater to No Discharge Areas to the Department.13

6.13.3 No vessel covered by the VGP may discharge pollutants to Class GPA or class SA waters.14

12 Large Commercial Passenger Vessels means vessels that provide overnight accommodations for 250 or more 

passengers for hire. 38 M.R.S.A §423-D(l)(E) 13 38 MRSA §423-D(3)

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6.13.4 No vessel covered by the VGP may conduct underwater hull cleaning except as part of 

emergency hull repairs necessary to secure the vessel or saving a life at sea. The Maine 

Department of Environmental Protection has determined that removal of biological growth, 

debris, or scrubbing the hull to reveal fresh antifouling coatings will invariably release 

pollutants at levels potentially toxic to the marine environment and cause violations of water 

quality standards.15

6.14 Michigan 

Michigan certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.14.1 Oceangoing vessels (a vessel that operates on the Great Lakes or the St. Lawrence waterway 

after operating in waters outside the Great Lakes or the St. Lawrence waterway) covered by 

the VGP are prohibited from discharging ballast water in Michigan's waters unless the vessel 

has obtained a Certificate of Coverage under the Ballast Water Control General Permit 

(Permit No. MIG140000) or an Individual Permit from the MDEQ and is in full compliance 

with the discharge limitations, monitoring requirements, and other conditions set forth in that 

General Permit or Individual Permit. (Section 3112[6] of Part 31, Water Resources 

Protection, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as 

amended [NREPA]) 

6.14.2 Ballast Water Exchange and Saltwater Flushing:

a. All vessels covered by the VGP whose voyages originate from outside the exclusive 

economic zone (EEZ) and enter Michigan waters with ballast onboard, shall conduct 

ballast water exchange at least 200 nautical miles (nm) from any shore and in waters 

beyond the EEZ. Such vessels that carry only residual amounts of ballast water and/or 

sediments shall conduct saltwater flushing of their ballast tanks, at least 200 nm from any 

shore and in waters beyond the EEZ. (Section 3103a of Part 31 of the NREPA) 

Ballast water exchange is defined as at least 1 empty and refill cycle of each ballast tank 

that contains ballast water, resulting in a salinity level of at least 30 parts per thousand 

(ppt). If the master of the vessel determines that such exchange is impracticable, a 

sufficient number of flow-through exchanges of ballast water may be conducted to 

achieve replacement of at least 95 percent of ballast water in ballast tanks of the vessel, 

resulting in a salinity level of at least 30 ppt.

Saltwater flushing is defined as the addition of ocean water to ballast water tanks, the 

mixing of the flushwater with residual water and sediment through the motion of the 

vessel, and the discharge of the mixed water, such that the resulting residual water has a 

salinity level of at least 30 ppt.

All vessels entering Michigan waters must maintain the ability to measure salinity levels 

in each ballast tank onboard the vessel so that salinities of at least 30 ppt can be ensured. 

14 38 MRSA §465-A (1) and 38 MRSA §465-B(l)

15 38 MRSA §420(2) and 38 MRSA §465-B 

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b. Condition 6.14.2(a) does not apply to vessels that: 

i. Carry only permanent ballast water, all of which is in sealed tanks that are not 

subject to discharge, or

ii. Use only water from a United States public water system or Canadian drinking 

water system as ballast water.

c. Condition 6.14.2(a) does not apply if the master of the vessel determines that compliance 

with this condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its 

passengers because of adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant 

condition. If a vessel is unable to conduct ballast water exchange or flushing due to 

serious safety concerns as specified above, the operator of a vessel shall take reasonable 

measures to avoid discharge of organisms in ballast water and shall inform the MDEQ in 

writing of the measures taken.

6.14.3 Discharge limitations for living organisms for vessels whose voyage originates outside the 

EEZ (Sections 3103a and 3109 of Part 31 of the NREPA): 

a. Ballast water discharges from vessels whose voyage originates outside the EEZ may 

contain biological pollutants in the form of aquatic invasive species. Ballast water 

discharges to Michigan waters must be controlled to a level sufficient to prevent aquatic 

invasive species. These pollutants must not be discharged at a level that is, or may 

become, injurious to any of the following: to the public health, safety, or welfare; to 

domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, or other uses that are being 

made, or may be made, of such waters; to the value or utility of riparian lands; to 

livestock, wild animals, birds, fish, aquatic life, or plants or to their growth or 

propagation; or to the value of fish and game. 

b. Any vessel utilizing a ballast water treatment system by December 31, 2014, consistent 

with the technologies identified in Michigan's Ballast Water Control General Permit 

(Permit No. MIG140000) or an alternative technology approved by the MDEQ, will not 

be required to meet any future numeric water quality-based effluent limits (WQBEL) for 

living organisms that may be set forth in a subsequent Section 401 certification until the 

functional life of that ballast water treatment system has expired or the life of the vessel 

has expired, whichever is earlier. These vessels must continue ballast water exchange 

and saltwater flushing as described in Condition 6.14.2 unless it is demonstrated to the 

MDEQ that numeric WQBELs adopted after the date of this certification for living 

organisms are met.

6.14.4 Live Organism Monitoring (R 323.2154(2)(c) of the Part 21 Rules, Wastewater Discharge 

Permits, promulgated under Part 31 of the NREPA): 

a. The owner/operator of any vessel covered by the VGP whose voyages originate from 

outside the EEZ that discharges ballast water to Michigan waters, shall monitor ballast 

water discharged from their vessel at least once each year for living organisms greater 

than 50 micrometers in minimum dimension, and living organisms equal to or less than 

50 micrometers in minimum dimension and equal to or greater than 10 micrometers in 

minimum dimension; and submit a report summarizing the discharge monitoring results 

collected for the above live organism size categories to the MDEQ no later than 

December 31 of each year. The ballast water discharge samples shall be collected and 

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analyzed consistent with protocols established by the MDEQ. If the MDEQ fails to 

establish protocols, then the requirements set forth in this condition will be waived.

6.14.5 The owners/operators of vessels required to utilize a ballast water treatment system shall 

allow the MDEQ reasonable entry onto the vessel for inspection, access to records, and 

collection of a ballast water discharge sample(s) for determining compliance with this 

certification and applicable laws. (R 323.2149(1)(c) and R 323.2189 of the Part 21 Rules of 

the NREPA)

6.14.6 Nonoceangoing vessels covered by the VGP operating ballast water treatment systems are 

prohibited from discharging ballast water in Michigan waters with total residual chlorine 

concentrations above 38 micrograms per liter (μg/L) when the ballast water discharge 

duration exceeds 160 minutes, or above 200 μg/L when the ballast water discharge duration 

is less than or equal to 160 minutes. (R 323.1057 of the Part 4 Rules, Water Quality 

Standards, promulgated under Part 31 of the NREPA) 

6.14.7 Discharges of blackwater and graywater from vessels covered by the VGP or sVGP are 

prohibited to Michigan waters. (Part 95, Watercraft Pollution Control, of the NREPA) 

6.14.8 Vessel owners/operators shall immediately notify the MDEQ whenever they become aware 

that a discharge from their vessel causes or contributes to an exceedance of an applicable 

state water quality standard. (R 323.2189 of the Part 21 Rules of the NREPA) 

6.14.9 Each condition in the proposed VGP and sVGP cannot be made less stringent without 

potentially violating the requirements of state law, including water quality standards. (Part 31 

of the NREPA)

6.14.10 All discharges to Michigan waters from vessels covered by the USEPA's VGP are prohibited 

from causing or contributing to exceedances of the Michigan Water Quality Standards (Part 4 

Rules, Water Quality Standards, promulgated under Part 31 of the NREPA). 

The contact point for consultation, submittals, and approvals as referred to in this certification is: 

Chief, Water Resources Division

Michigan Department of Environmental Quality

P.O. Box 30458 

Lansing, Michigan 48909-7958 

Phone: 517-335-4176 

6.15 Minnesota

Minnesota certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.15.1 Compliance with Minnesota State Disposal System (SDS) permit for ballast water; 

Requirement 

The applicability of International Maritime Organization (IMO) D-2 ballast water discharge 

limits for vessels in the 2013 must not relieve any person from the duty to obtain and comply 

with the existing Minnesota ballast water general permit MNG300000, or subsequent 

modifications of that permit issued by the MPCA. Obtaining coverage under the 2013 VGP 

does not release any person from the duty to obtain a permit required by state law. Vessels 

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covered by the EPA's 2013 VGP must obtain any permits required by the state of Minnesota 

for vessel discharges and comply with all requirements in the applicable permit at the time of 

compliance review.

6.15.2 Exchange and flushing for voyages originating beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 

Requirement 

The operator of any vessel covered under the 2013 VGP whose voyage originates outside the 

exclusive economic zone and enters Minnesota waters shall not discharge ballast unless the 

following conditions are met: the vessel has conducted ballast water exchange or flushing 

beyond the EEZ, at least 200 nautical miles from any shore, and in water at least 2,000 meters 

in depth, while in oceanic waters, resulting in a salinity level of at least 30 parts per thousand 

(ppt) prior to the time the vessel enters Minnesota waters. This requirement remains in effect 

regardless of whether the vessel is equipped with a ballast water treatment system. This 

requirement is in addition to treatment requirements required under the proposed 2013 VGP.

All vessels entering Minnesota waters must maintain the ability to measure salinity levels in 

each tank onboard the vessel so that salinities of at least 30 ppt can be ensured prior to 

discharge in Minnesota waters.

For vessels entering the Great Lakes from outside the EEZ and carrying only residual 

amounts of ballast water and/or sediment, the flushing requirements are equivalent to those 

set forth in the July 1, 2012, edition of the 51. Lawrence Seaway regulations, 33 CFR 

§401.30(f). 

This requirement does not apply to: 

a. Vessels that either have no ballast tanks or that carry only permanent ballast water, all of 

which is in sealed tanks that are not subject to discharge, or

b. Vessels that carry only potable water that meets the requirements of section 2.2.3.5.1.3 of 

the draft 2013 VGP in their ballast tanks.

This requirement does not apply if the master of the vessel determines that compliance with 

this condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers 

because of adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant condition. If a vessel is 

unable to conduct ballast water exchange or flushing due to serious safety concerns as 

specified above, the operator of such vessel shall inform the MPCA and DNR prior to 

discharging ballast in state waters to allow a determination of whether the discharge of the 

ballast presents a "high risk" as described below. No ballast shall be discharged that does not 

meet the conditions in this part if the MPCA determines that the ballast is "high risk" and that 

additional treatment is necessary to protect aquatic resources.

6.15.3 Emergency Control of Ballast Water discharge

Requirement 

a. The MPCA, in coordination with the DNR, may prohibit discharge, require a discharge to 

occur in a particular area, or require emergency treatment of any "high risk" ballast water 

proposed to be discharged in Minnesota waters pursuant to its authority under Minn. Stat. 

§116.11 and Minn. R. 7000.5000. 

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b. A “high risk" ballast water is one that, in the opinion of the MPCA in consultation with 

the DNR, poses an imminent and substantial danger to the health and welfare of the 

people of the state related to the introduction of a nonnative species into Minnesota 

waters.

c. If relocation of a high risk ballast discharge is required, the MPCA, coordinating with 

the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the DNR, and the States of Michigan and Wisconsin, as 

needed, will identify alternative locations for the discharge of the high risk ballast water.

d. Nothing in this section relieves the vessel owner or operator of the responsibility for 

ensuring the vessel's safety and stability or the safety of the crew and passengers.

e. As an alternative to discharging high-risk ballast water, the MPCA may authorize the use 

of Ballast Water Treatment Systems (BWTS) identified as promising technology by EPA, 

USCG, neighboring states or a U.S. ballast water testing research facility. U.S. ballast 

water testing research facilities include, but may not be limited to the Golden Bear, Great 

Ships Initiative and Maritime Environmental Resource Center.

6.15.4 Coverage of Lakers that operate exclusively in the Great Lakes

Requirement 

For vessels that operate exclusively in the Great Lakes, the following Best Management 

Practices (BMPs) are required to be incorporated into the vessel's ballast management plan 

and implemented prior to discharge of ballast in Minnesota waters): 

a. Annually inspect and replace, as necessary, ballast sea chest screens. Replace screens 

with the smallest openings allowed by good engineering practice. Inspections must be 

documented by log entry, diver's report, video report, dry-docking report, marine 

inspection note, or surveyor's report. 

b. During cargo operations (while accounting for boom list, hull stress, and bending 

moments), lighten the ship as much as practical to elevate water intakes before ballasting 

to minimize sediment uptake and increase water flow.

c. Ballast water taken aboard shall be the minimum needed to ensure the safety of the crew 

and vessel. Additional ballast water can be taken aboard, once deeper water is reached.

d. Ballast water shall always be taken aboard or discharged via the pumps and never 

"gravity fed or drained." This ensures an organism that somehow makes it past the screen

is pulverized by the high speed, high pressure, and tight tolerance pump. 

6.15.5 Monitoring Requirements 

Requirements:

a. Monitoring for vessels required to meet the 2013 VGP(numeric limits equivalent to IMO 

0-2) ballast water discharge limits: In addition to meeting the draft 2013 VGP 

monitoring requirements in section 2.2.3.S., all vessels covered under the2013 VGP and 

operating in Minnesota waters after a Ballast Water Treatment System is installed must 

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sample and analyze the ballast water discharge at least once a year (provided appropriate 

facilities are available) using the shipboard Environmental Technology Verification 

(ETV) sampling protocol, a protocol consistent with IMO G8/G9 protocols, or a 

compliance monitoring protocol developed by the USCG, whichever is most advanced 

and available. The MPCA will be available to interpret which method(s) are most 

advanced and available. This monitoring shall include sampling, identification and 

enumeration of live organisms >50 μm and between 10-50 μm in size. The monitoring 

results shall be submitted to EPA and the MPCA on an annual basis, consistent with the 

mechanisms used in the 2013 VGP for all other submissions, provided such electronic 

tools are made available by EPA. In the absence of available submittal tools by EPA, 

monitoring data must be directly submitted to the MPCA. The MPCA's point of contact is 

provided at the close of this letter. Such live organism monitoring shall include the 

collection of representative discharge samples and the testing (counting) of live 

organisms in such samples by qualified personnel in accordance with standard and/or best 

available sampling and analytical methods.

b. Monitoring for vessels not required to meet numeric ballast treatment limits because of 

2013 VGP condition 2.2.3.5.3.3 (currently addressing vessels operating exclusively 

upstream of the Welland Canal) or similar condition: Within 24 months of final issuance 

of the 2013 VGP, all vessels not required to meet numeric ballast treatment standards, 

and that discharge ballast in Minnesota waters, shall have the capacity to collect at the 

request of the MPCA, EPA or other regulatory authority representative samples of 

organisms in ballast water discharges. Beginning 24 months after final issuance of the 

2013 VGP, all vessels not required to meet numeric ballast treatment limits shall 

complete the following ballast discharge monitoring: 

i. A minimum of once annually, sample and analyze for organism density and 

composition (based on broad taxonomic categories). Sampling and analysis 

methods shall be consistent with protocols described above. Samples must be 

analyzed for total organisms (live or dead) greater than or equal to 10 

micrometers in size. The ballast discharge subject to sampling must be taken on 

the ship in a Great Lakes port for discharge into Minnesota waters. You must 

report the uptake locations and volumes subject to sampling, as well as the 

volume you plan to discharge in Minnesota's waters, best management practices 

employed, and other factors affecting the composition of the sample.; or 

ii. Complete, individually or in partnership with other permittees, a ballast 

discharge biological study approved by the MPCA. The study must include 

actual discharge data representing designated vessels that may discharge native 

and non-native organisms into Minnesota waters. The purposes of the study must 

include an evaluation of the risk that ballast discharges pose to Minnesota waters.

6.15.6 Biocide Usage

Requirement: 

Discharges of residual biocides are authorized as defined by the September 24, 2008, 

Minnesota General Ballast Water Permit or subsequent reissuances, whichever is most recent. 

Discharge limitations for residual oxidants, and procedures for obtaining authorization to use 

other chemical additives are established by the permit. Obtaining coverage under the 2013 

VGP does not release any person from the duty to obtain a permit required by state law. 

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Vessels covered by the EPA's 2013 VGP must obtain any permits required by the state of 

Minnesota for vessel discharges and comply with all requirements in the applicable permit at 

the time of compliance review.

6.15.7 Other State Regulations

Requirement: 

All vessels must comply with the requirements of Minn. Stat. 115.1703 and any other 

applicable state law, statute or rule.

6.16 Missouri

Missouri certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.16.1 The permittee shall not cause or contribute to the general or numeric criteria to be exceeded

nor impair beneficial uses established in the Water Quality Standards, 10 CSR 20-7.031. 

6.16.2 Representatives from the Department shall be allowed to inspect the authorized activity at 

any time deemed necessary to ensure that it is being or has been accomplished in accordance 

with the letters and conditions of the permit.

6.16.3 This certification shall not be construed or interpreted to imply the requirements for other 

permits are replaced or superseded. Any National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

Permits, Land Disturbance General Permits, or other requirements shall be complied with. 

6.17 Nebraska

Nebraska certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

Chapter 6, § 004 of Title 117- Nebraska's Surface Water Quality Standards, states that: 

“No discharge of wastewater from domestic, municipal, or industrial sources shall be allowed directly 

into lakes or impounded waters except:

“004.01 Wastewater from sources authorized by NPDES permits to discharge to these waters 

prior to May 10, 1982 which have operated under active NPDES permits since then.

“004.02 Noncontact cooling waters from sources authorized by NPDES permits to discharge to 

these waters.

“004.03 Stormwater from sources authorized by NPDES permits to discharge to these waters.” 

This precludes allowing discharges into lakes and reservoirs of greywater; bilge water, or any sewage 

commingled with any other discharge as described in the permits and in Federal Register Vol. 76, No. 

236, pp 76716 through 76725. Vessels on these waters will need to discharge these wastewaters into 

sanitary dump stations that do not result in a discharge to lakes or impounded waters. Cooling water 

discharges are allowed. Use of these General Permits for vessels operating on streams of the State of 

Nebraska is acceptable.

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6.18 New Hampshire

New Hampshire certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions:

6.18.1 Conditions Applicable to Coastal (Tidal) Waters 

a. In a Notice of Determination in the Federal Register dated September 27, 2005, the State 

of New Hampshire was granted permission by EPA for a No Discharge Area. The No 

Discharge Area consists of all tidal and estuarine waters, including all bays and rivers to 

the tidal dams, and all ocean waters within three nautical miles of the New Hampshire 

shoreline and Isles of Shoals. In the No Discharge Area, all boat sewage discharge 

(including graywater containing sewage), whether treated or untreated, is prohibited. For 

a brochure on New Hampshire’s Coastal Pumpout Program see 

http://des.n.h.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/publications/wd/documents/no_dischar

ge area.pdf

b. Graywater without sewage should be discharged at pumpout facilities or beyond three 

nautical miles of the New Hampshire shoreline and the Isles of Shoals wherever feasible. 

This is infeasible at this time for vessels without holding tanks for graywater, but these 

vessels should plan to install such holding tanks during one of the next two scheduled dry 

docking events if such installation is technically feasible and would not jeopardize the 

safety of the vessel.

c. Part 2.2.15 of the draft Vessel General Permit prohibits the discharge of graywater from 

vessels with graywater holding tanks to nutrient impaired waters. For all practical 

purposes for this part, nutrient impaired tidal waters in New Hampshire include tidal 

waters west of the Interstate 95 Bridge over the Piscataqua River. For a more detailed 

delineation of nutrient impaired waters see the DES' Watershed Report Cards at 

http://des.nl1.gov/organization/divisions/water/W!nb/swga/report_cards.htm. 

d. Bilgewater may contain fuel, oil, paint chips and other pollutants associated with the 

cargo or processes occurring on the vessel. Part 2.3.1 requires among other things that 

your discharges be controlled as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards. 

The applicable water quality standards in New Hampshire are found in RSA 485-A:8 and 

the Surface Water Quality Regulations Env-Wq 1700, which are available at 

http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/legal/rules/documents/env-wg l 700.pdf. 

Vessel operators should pay particular attention to using all necessary management 

practices, treatment and discharge methods to ensure that the surface waters near the 

vessel remain free from substances that would settle to form harmful deposits or float as 

foam, debris, scum or other visible pollutants or otherwise violate the General Water 

Quality Criteria (see Env-Wq 1703.03) or the Minimum Criteria for Mixing Zones (see 

Env-Wq 1707.02). For discharges such as bilgewater that are likely to contain pollutants 

that are toxic to aquatic life, the management practices, treatment and discharge methods 

must also ensure that the discharge does not cause the surface water in the vicinity of the 

discharge to contain “toxics in toxic amounts" (see Env-Wq 1703.21). 

6.18.2 Conditions Applicable to Inland (Freshwater) Surface Waters 

a. The inland lakes of New Hampshire are No Discharge Areas for both sewage and 

graywater. See RSA 487:1-14 at 

http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/html/NHTOC/NHTOC-L-487.btm. Information on 

pumpout facilities on Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Sunapee and Squam lake can be found 

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at 

http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/publications/wd/documents/lakes_regio

n_pumpout.pdfl 

b. Bilgewater may contain fuel, oil, paint chips and other pollutants associated with the 

cargo or processes occurring on the vessel. Part 2.3.1 requires among other things that 

your discharges be controlled as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards. 

The applicable water quality standards in New Hampshire are found in RSA 485-A:8 and 

the Surface Water Quality Regulations Env-Wq 1700, which are available at 

http://des.nh.gov/organization/comrnissioner/legal/rules/documents/envwq1700.pdf. 

Vessel operators should pay particular attention to using all necessary management 

practices, treatment and discharge methods to ensure that the surface waters near the 

vessel remain free from substances that would settle to form harmful deposits or float as 

foam, debris, scum or other visible pollutants or otherwise violate the General Water 

Quality Criteria (see Env-Wq 1703.03) or the Minimum Criteria for Mixing Zones (see 

Env·Wq 1707.02). For discharges such as bilgewater that are likely to contain pollutants 

that are toxic to aquatic life, the management practices, treatment and discharge methods 

must also ensure that the discharge does not cause the surface water in the vicinity of the 

discharge to contain "'toxics in toxic amounts''(see Env-Wq 1703.21). 

6.19 New York

New York certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

Vessel General Permit Certification Conditions

The Department finds that the conditions in the draft VGP cannot be made less stringent without violating 

water quality standards and other requirements of State law, and also establishes other conditions more 

stringent than those contained in the draft VGP that are needed to meet the requirements of either the 

CWA or New York State law. As further explained herein and in the Department’s Fact Sheet dated 2012, 

each such condition is needed to assure compliance with the relevant provisions of law and regulation 

which are set forth in the Department’s Fact Sheet dated 2012. In accordance with 40 CFR §§ 

124.53(e)(2) and (3), those provisions of the CWA and New York State law form the basis for the 

conditions of this Certification. In accordance with 40 CFR § 124.53 (e)(2) and (3), each such condition 

cannot be made less stringent and still comply with the requirements of State law and regulation, 

including State water quality standards. Since the requirements of New York State law and regulation, 

including water quality standards, are more stringent than the protections the VGP would otherwise 

provide, this water quality certification is necessary.

In accordance with 40 CFR § 122.44(d)(1), numeric Water Quality-Based Effluent Limitations (WQBEL) 

for living organisms in ballast water discharges can be set for vessels covered under the VGP. The 

WQBEL is set at a level which will neither cause nor contribute to an excursion above New York State 

water quality standards, including State narrative criteria for water quality. While this Certification does 

not set a WQBEL, it does specify interim measures to ensure compliance with State water quality 

standards, including State narrative criteria for water quality, until such time as the WQBEL is developed 

and fully attainable. The Certification also sets conditions for other vessel discharges such as bilge water.

All studies, reports, authorities and other documents cited herein, including the Department’s Fact Sheet 

dated 2012, are incorporated into this Certification by reference. 

Conditions set forth in the draft VGP cannot be made less stringent:

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6.19.1 Draft permit generally. The conditions set forth in the draft VGP, including Section 2.2.3.5 

(discharge limitations), Section 2.2.3.7 (Great Lakes exchange and flushing), and Section 

2.2.15 (graywater), cannot be made less stringent without impairing New York waters for 

their best usage. These conditions, or equally protective conditions, are needed to comply 

with the New York State statutes and regulations indicated in the Department's Fact Sheet 

dated 2012. In accordance with 40 CFR 124.53 (e)(3), this condition cannot be made less 

stringent and still comply with State water quality standards.

For example, permittees must meet the following discharge limits consistent with Section 

2.2.3.5 and Table 6: Ballast Water Treatment to BAT(Best Available Technology) Schedule 

found in the VGP, unless excluded from these requirements by Parts 2.2.3.5.3 or 2.2.3.8 of 

the VGP:

a. For organisms greater than or equal to 50 micrometers in minimum dimension: discharge 

must include fewer than 10 living organisms per cubic meter of ballast water.

b. For organisms less than 50 micrometers and greater than or equal to 10 micrometers: 

discharge must include fewer than 10 living organisms per milliliter (mL) of ballast 

water.

c. Indicator microorganisms must not exceed:

i. For Toxicogenic Vibrio cholerae (serotypes O1 and O139): a concentration of 

less than 1 colony forming unit (cfu) per 100 mL. 

ii. For Escherichia coli: a concentration of fewer than 250 cfu per 100 mL. 

iii. For intestinal enterococci: a concentration of fewer than 100 cfu per 100 mL 

Conditions more stringent than those contained in the draft VGP:

6.19.2 Exchange and flushing for voyages originating beyond the exclusive economic zone 

(EEZ). The operator of any vessel covered under the VGP whose voyage originates outside 

the exclusive economic zone and enters New York waters shall conduct ballast water 

exchange or flushing beyond the EEZ, at least 200 nautical miles from any shore, and in 

water at least 2,000 meters in depth, resulting in a salinity level of at least 30 parts per 

thousand (ppt). These requirements remain in effect regardless of whether the vessel is 

equipped with a ballast water treatment system.

No vessel subject to this condition which operates a treatment system in accordance with 

Section 2.2.3.5 of the draft VGP shall bring ballast water into New York waters unless its 

ballast tanks have been exchanged or flushed at a location at least 200 nautical miles from 

shore in accordance with the above requirements, and unless any water reintroduced into the 

vessel’s tanks is ocean water from that same general location which has been treated by the 

vessel’s treatment system prior to entry into New York waters.

All vessels entering New York waters must maintain the ability to measure salinity levels in 

each tank onboard the vessel so that salinities of at least 30 ppt can be ensured. 

This condition adds no new requirement or deadline for ballast water treatment. The 

requirements and deadlines for ballast water treatment are those specified in the draft VGP, 

Section 2.2.3.5 and Table 6. However, in addition to meeting those requirements, vessel 

operators will need to continue performing exchange or flushing. 

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This condition does not apply to vessels: 

a. that either have no operable ballast tanks or that carry only permanent ballast water, all of 

which is in sealed tanks that are not subject to discharge, or

b. that carry only potable water that meets the requirements of section 2.2.3.5.1.3 of the 

draft VGP in their ballast tanks.

This condition does not apply if the master of the vessel determines that compliance with this 

condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers 

because of adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant condition. If a vessel is 

unable to conduct ballast water exchange or flushing due to serious safety concerns as 

specified above, the operator of any vessel with ballast on board shall take reasonable 

measures to avoid discharge of organisms in ballast water and shall inform the Department in 

writing of the measures taken.

For vessels entering the Great Lakes from outside the EEZ and carrying only residual 

amounts of ballast water and/or sediment, the flushing requirements are equivalent to those 

set forth in the May 4, 2012 edition of the Seaway Regulations and Rules, 33 CFR 401.30(f). 

New York finds that the exchange/flushing requirements set forth in this condition, including 

the combination of treatment with exchange or flushing, are needed to prevent impairment of 

waters for their best usage and are thus needed to comply with the New York State statutes 

and regulations indicated in the Department's Fact Sheet dated 2012. In accordance with 40 

CFR 124.53 (e)(2), this condition cannot be made less stringent and still comply with State 

water quality standards.

6.19.3 WQBEL. The discharge of ballast water from vessels covered under the EPA VGP contains 

biological pollutants in the form of aquatic invasive species (AIS). These pollutants must not 

be discharged at a level which will cause, or have the potential to cause, or contribute to an 

excursion above the State narrative water quality standards in 6 NYCRR Part 703.2. Vessels 

discharging ballast water in New York’s waters must control the level of these biological 

pollutants to a level to achieve the State narrative water quality standards. A numeric effluent 

limitation for this condition is deferred until the next VGP.

6.19.4 Confined Laker vessels. Requirements and recommendations for vessels that operate 

exclusively in the Great Lakes are the following Best Management Practices (BMPs). New 

York requires the use of reasonable and effective management practices to limit the 

introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, until at least the WQBEL is fully 

implemented.

The following BMPs are required to be implemented in the Great Lakes:

a. In lieu of the normal 5-year inspection, annually inspect and replace, as necessary, ballast 

sea chest screens. Replace screens with the smallest openings allowed by good 

engineering practice. Inspections will be documented by log entry, diver’s report, video 

report, dry-docking report, marine inspection note, or surveyor’s report. 

b. During cargo operations while accounting for boom list, hull stress, and bending 

moments, lighten the ship as much as practical to elevate water intakes before ballasting 

to minimize sediment uptake and increase water flow.

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c. Ballast water taken aboard in Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) affected waters shall 

be the minimum needed to ensure the safety of the crew and vessel. Additional ballast 

water can be taken aboard, once deeper water is reached.

d. Ballast water shall always be taken aboard or discharged via the pumps and never 

“gravity fed or drained.” This ensures an organism that somehow makes it past the screen 

is pulverized by the high speed, high pressure, and tight tolerance pump. 

The following BMPs are recommended to be implemented in the Great Lakes:

e. The temperature range in which the VHS virus is known to replicate, and in which fish 

kills have been detected, is quite broad (37oF - 70oF [3oC - 21oC]). Since this range 

encompasses the majority of water temperatures found in the Great Lakes throughout the 

year, New York State recommends following this supplemental BMP regardless of water 

temperatures.

i. In order for the VHS disease to spread, an uninfected, yet vulnerable fish must be 

exposed to an active virus, such as with exposure to the bodily fluids from an 

infected fish. The virus is most stable in a living fish. It can remain active in dead or 

macerated fish parts, but for a shorter time. Therefore New York State recommends 

its vessel operators take all appropriate actions to insure that fish or fish parts do not 

enter their ballast tanks. This is accomplished by inspecting the 1⁄2” openings 

screening the ballast water intakes and using pumps as macerators during uptake and 

discharge.

ii. Fish populations are denser near shore and significantly less dense more than 3 miles 

from shore; therefore, New York State recommends its vessel operators, when and 

where possible, minimize uptake of ballast water in near shore locations. To further 

reduce risk, when possible: 

1. Conduct a ballast water exchange in the deepest, warmest water prior to entering 

Lake Superior (this practice would specifically preclude exchanging ballast water 

in Lake St. Clair and the western basin of Lake Erie). 

2. If vessel operators are unable to conduct an exchange in the lower Great Lakes, 

consider doing an exchange in deep, remote waters of Lake Superior. 

3. Although it is unlikely a live fish or larger fish particle could have entered the 

ballast system, consider exchanging ballast water within the ship or recirculating it within a ballast tank (pumps act as a macerator to reduce the 

possibility of discharging fish or larger pieces of fish). 

4. Continue working with the U.S. Coast Guard and Council of Lake Committees to 

evaluate additional risk reduction actions.

New York finds that the BMPs set forth in this condition are needed to prevent impairment of 

waters for their best usage and are thus needed to comply with the New York State statutes 

and regulations indicated in the Department's Fact Sheet dated 2012. In accordance with 40 

CFR 124.53 (e)(2), this condition cannot be made less stringent and still comply with State 

water quality standards.

6.19.5 Live organism monitoring. In addition to meeting the draft VGP monitoring requirements in 

section 2.2.3.5.1.1.4, all vessels covered under the VGP and operating in New York waters, 

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after a Ballast Water Treatment System is installed, must sample and analyze the ballast 

water discharge at least once a year (provided appropriate facilities are available) using the 

California shipboard sampling protocol, or a compliance monitoring protocol developed by 

the USCG, whichever is most advanced and available. This monitoring shall include 

sampling for >50 μm and for 10-50 μm organisms. The monitoring results shall be submitted 

to EPA and the Department on an annual basis, consistent with the mechanisms used in the 

VGP for all other submissions. The Department’s point of contact is provided at the close of 

this letter. Such live organism monitoring shall include the collection of representative 

discharge samples and the testing (counting) of live organisms in such samples by qualified 

personnel in accordance with standard and/or best available sampling and analytical methods.

New York finds that the monitoring requirements set forth in this condition are needed to 

prevent impairment of waters for their best usage and are thus needed to comply with the 

New York State statutes and regulations indicated in the Department's Fact Sheet dated 2012. 

In accordance with 40 CFR 124.53 (e)(2), this condition cannot be made less stringent and 

still comply with State water quality standards.

6.19.6 Bilge water. Discharge of bilge water is prohibited in New York waters. This condition does 

not apply to the discharge of bilge water if the master of the vessel determines that 

compliance with this condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or 

its passengers because of adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant condition. 

New York finds that the discharge prohibition set forth in this condition, coupled with the 

narrowly defined safety exemption, is needed to prevent impairment of waters for their best 

usage and is thus needed to comply with the New York State statutes and regulations 

indicated in the Department's Fact Sheet dated 2012. In accordance with 40 CFR 124.53 

(e)(2), this condition cannot be made less stringent and still comply with State water quality 

standards.

6.20 North Carolina

North Carolina certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.20.1 This Certification is valid only for those activities that fully comply with all terms and 

conditions of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Vessel General 

Permit for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation of Vessels (VGP) or the proposed 

NPDES Small Vessel General Permit for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation of 

Vessels less than 79 Feet (sVGP) and all other state laws applicable to such discharges.

6.20.2 Discharges that are not eligible for coverage under the VGP or sVGP that require an 

individual permit must also obtain an individual Water Quality Certification or waiver from 

the Division.

6.20.3 This General Certification does not relieve the applicant/permittee of the responsibility to 

obtain all other required Federal, State, or Local approvals. 

6.20.4 The applicant/permittee and their authorized agents shall conduct all activities in a manner 

consistent with state water quality standards (including any requirements resulting from 

compliance with §303(d) of the Clean Water Act), the Oil Pollution and Hazardous 

Substances Control Act of 1978 (Chapter 143 Article 21A) and any other appropriate 

requirements of State and Federal Law. 

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6.21 Ohio

Ohio certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

Water Quality Standards and Impacts

6.21.1 Ohio Narrative Water Quality Standards and Nuisance Species

Ohio Water Quality Standards (WQS) contain narrative conditions to prohibit nuisance 

conditions in waters of the state. The specific standard states that "To every extent practical 

and possible as determined by the director, these waters shall be . . . Free from materials 

entering the waters as a result of human activity producing color, odor or other conditions in 

such a degree as to create a nuisance;" [Ohio Administrative Code 3745-1-04(C)].

In this rule, the term materials is not defined or limited; Ohio considers that this condition 

applies to non-indigenous nuisance species. The federal NPDES permit may not adequately 

prevent the introduction of new non-indigenous species, depending on the conditions issued 

in the final NPDES permit.

6.21.2 Ohio Narrative Water Quality Standards for Toxicity

The narrative WQS also contain a provision prohibiting toxicity: "To every extent practical 

and possible as defined by the director, these waters shall be....Free from substances entering 

the waters as a result of human activity in concentrations that are toxic or harmful to human, 

animal or aquatic life and/or are rapidly lethal in the mixing zone;" [Ohio Administrative 

Code 3745-1-04(0)]. 

The federal NPDES permit requirement for salt water ballast exchange means that ballast 

water discharges to fresh water will contain large concentrations of dissolved solids; these 

solids have the potential to be toxic to fresh water aquatic life, and discharges must meet the 

narrative toxicity standard. 

6.21.3 Biocide Limits and Experimental Ballast Water Treatment

The discharge limits for residual chlorine, peroxyacetic acid and hydrogen peroxide do not 

meet Ohio WQS for continuous discharges. The federal NPDES permit's total residual 

chlorine discharge standard is 100 μg/l for discharges from ballast water treatment 

systems. This limit meets Ohio WQS for short-term intermittent discharges, but does not 

meet WQS for continuous discharges.

Ohio has used its authority to establish site-specific WQS to establish a separate insidemixing-zone maximum criterion for short-term exposures to chlorine. This criterion for is 

200 μg/l; the otherwise applicable criterion is 38 μg/l. [OAC 3745-1-35 and -36]. 

Ohio EPA has developed water quality criteria applicable to bromine and combinations of 

bromine and chlorine. These criteria are based on data submitted by the Chemical 

Manufacturers Association to U.S. EPA Region V that shows bromine being approximately 

four times as toxic as chlorine. The water quality criteria for bromine are therefore set at1/4 

of the chlorine standard. 

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Ohio EPA has also developed water quality criteria for peracetic acid using the criteria 

calculation rule OAC 3745-1-36. Similar procedures have been used by Michigan to 

develop water quality criteria for hydrogen peroxide and ozone (Michigan DEQ Rule 57). 

Discharges of other biocides must meet the narrative water quality standard for toxicity noted 

above. [OAC 3745-1-04(0)]. 

Specific Conditions 

6.21.4 Ballast Water Controls

Given the number of invasive species already in the Great Lakes, the number of recent 

introductions, and the likelihood of increased ship traffic, the existing program of ballast 

water control is not effective in preventing the introduction of invasive non-native organisms, 

and therefore does not meet Ohio's narrative WQS. An integrated system of ballast water 

treatment and management controls would reduce the number of live organisms in ballast 

water, and is the most effective approach to meeting the nuisance WQS. [OAC 3745-1-

04(C)]. 

The draft VGP proposes treatment limits and practices to reduce the number of organisms 

discharged into U.S. waters. Ohio EPA believes that these controls are "practical and 

possible" means of controlling potentially invasive species, and is incorporating those 

requirements into this certification. These controls include the International Maritime 

Organization (IMO) treatment standards and ballast water management techniques in the 

draft permit.

Discharges must meet the IMO treatment standards in the VGP or 33 CFR 151.1511, 

whichever is more restrictive, according to the schedule in the VGP or 33 CFR 151.1512, 

whichever compliance date comes first.

Treatment systems to reduce the number of live organisms discharged in ballast water exist 

and are continuing to be developed. These treatment systems are intended to kill and/or filter 

all organisms from ballast water so that they are not discharged. Several of the treatment 

systems being designed to meet the discharge standards of the International Maritime 

Organization (IMO) can remove a large percentage, if not all, organisms. Ohio EPA is 

certifying IMO standards because they are the most widely accepted and tested standards in 

the world. These treatment systems shall be operated to maximize the destruction and/or 

removal of organisms in the ballast water, with the object of discharging no viable organisms.

The VGP contains additional management controls on ballast water discharges that can 

reduce the risk of organisms discharged in ballast water. These controls are currently in-use 

by many ships, and are therefore reasonable conditions. As they are capable of reducing the 

risk of nuisance organisms discharged, these conditions are required to meet OAC 3745-1-

04(C): 

Vessels that operate outside the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and more than 200 

nautical miles from shore, and then enter the Great Lakes via the St. Lawrence Seaway 

System must conduct salt water flushing of ballast tanks. This condition applies both 

before and after treatment system deadlines in the VGP;

Vessels are prohibited from discharging ballast water sediment in Ohio waters.

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Ohio EPA believes that the IMO certification combined with ballast water flushing and 

exchange is sufficient demonstration that these treatment standards are "practical and 

possible" methods for meeting ballast water treatment standards for ocean-going ships. U.S. 

EPA's fact sheet demonstrates that more restrictive treatment standards cannot be reliably 

attained or measured at this time.

Ohio EPA also believes that there are reasons to treat existing vessels that operate exclusively 

within the Great Lakes differently than those that operate outside the Lakes. The effluent 

flows of ballast water are larger than ocean-going vessels, are discharged more rapidly that 

the ballast water of ocean-going vessels, and space for treatment equipment is limited on 

existing lake vessels. These factors affect the practicability of treatment. Ohio EPA believes 

that IMO treatment standards are not "practical and possible" at this time for existing vessels 

operating exclusively within the Great Lakes, as defined in the VGP. 

If the federal government adopts treatment standards more stringent than IMO, then those 

standards shall replace the above treatment standards for new treatment systems installed 

after the date those federal standards go into effect.

The Director will evaluate treatment standards equivalent to IMO or more restrictive 

standards for all vessel classes covered by the federal general permit (including both oceangoing vessels and vessels that operate only in the Great Lakes) when he issues the next 

certification on this permit. The decision to require IMO or more restrictive treatment 

standards will be based on treatment system availability and costs, and other considerations 

required by law. 

6.21.5 Salt Water Discharges

It is likely that discharges of ballasted sea water will not meet the toxicity narrative water 

quality standard if discharged in the relatively shallow water of Ohio's Lake Erie ports, due to 

the dissolved solids levels in sea water. Discharges in the open waters of the Lake minimize 

the risk of toxicity, and will allow the standard to be met. In order to prevent toxicity to 

ambient organisms or rapidly lethal conditions, discharges of ballasted sea water within the 

breakwalls of Ohio's Lake Erie Ports is prohibited.

6.21.6 Ballast Treatment Chemical-Specific Discharge Limits

For ballast water treatment systems using chlorine, discharges must meet a maximum 

chlorine limit of 38 micrograms per liter (μg/l) if the discharge lasts for more than 160 

minutes/day; the limit is 200 μg/l if the discharge is 160 minutes/day or less. [OAC 3745-1-

07 (inside-mixing-zone maximum water quality standards, definition and applicability), OAC 

3745-1-35, (site-specific WQS, exposure time-based criteria), OAC 3745-1-36 (aquatic 

life criteria calculation procedures, equivalency of IMZM with FAV criteria), OAC 

3745-2-05(8)(3) (maximum limits for discharges to lakes)]. These standards apply to all 

ballast water treatments - both experimental and those treatments installed to meet IMO 

standards.

6.21.7 Ballast Treatment- Other Biocides 

Biocides other than the biocides listed in c. above used in ballast water treatment must meet 

Ohio's narrative toxicity water quality standard. To meet the 'no rapidly lethal conditions' 

narrative, discharges of all biocides must meet inside-mixing-zone water quality standards 

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(Final Acute Values) as determined by the OAC Rule 3745-1-36 [Great Lakes Initiative rule 

procedures]. The discharge of organic quaternary ammonium compounds is prohibited. 

6.22 Rhode Island

Rhode Island certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.22.1 The operator of any vessel covered under the draft VGP whose voyage originates outside the 

exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and enters Rhode Island waters shall conduct ballast water 

exchange or flushing beyond the EEZ, at least 200 nautical miles from any shore, and in 

water at least 2,000 meters in depth. These requirements remain in effect regardless of 

whether the vessel is equipped with a ballast water treatment system. No vessel subject to this 

condition which operates a treatment system in accordance with Section 2.2.3.5 of the draft 

VGP shall bring ballast water into Rhode Island waters unless its ballast tanks have been 

exchanged or flushed at a location at least 200 nautical miles from shore and unless any water 

reintroduced into the vessel's tanks is ocean water from that same general location which has 

been treated by the vessel's treatment system prior to entry into Rhode Island waters.

This condition adds no new requirement or deadline for ballast water treatment. The 

requirements and deadlines for ballast water treatment are those specified in the draft VGP, 

Section 2.2.3.5 and Table 6. However, in addition to meeting the requirements in Section 

2.2.3.5 and Table 6, vessel operators will need to continue performing exchange or flushing. 

This condition does not apply to vessels that either have no ballast tanks or that carry only 

permanent ballast water, all of which is contained in sealed tanks that are not subject to 

discharge, or that carry only potable water that meets the requirements of section 2.2.3.5.1.3 

of the draft VGP in their ballast tanks.

This condition does not apply if the master of the vessel determines that compliance with this 

condition would threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers 

because of adverse weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant condition. If a vessel is 

unable to conduct ballast water exchange or flushing due to serious safety concerns as 

specified above, the operator of any vessel with ballast on board shall take reasonable 

measures to avoid discharge of organisms in ballast water and shall inform the Department in 

writing of the measures taken.

The above condition combines water quality protection with operational flexibility. They 

provide flexibility to the industry by allowing further development of treatment technology 

and testing protocols. While not a mandatory requirement, the Department urges vessel 

permittees to voluntarily install currently available technologies that go beyond the IMO D-2 

standard (e.g., systems that have demonstrated the ability to meet and exceed a 10X IMO 

level of treatment) as a means of gaining useful experience while contributing to the 

advancement of treatment technology.

6.22.2 The discharge of bilge water from any vessel covered under the draft VGP whose voyage 

originates outside the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) shall discharge all existing bilge water 

prior to entering Rhode Island waters. This condition does not apply to the discharge of bilge 

water if the master of the vessel determines that compliance with this condition would 

threaten the safety or stability of the vessel, its crew, or its passengers because of adverse 

weather, equipment failure, or any other relevant conditions. If the operator of the vessel 

(originating outside of the EEZ) is unable to discharge their bilge water prior to entering 

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Rhode Island waters, the operator is prohibited from discharging bilge water within Rhode 

Island waters.

The Department finds that this condition is necessary to protect the ecological integrity of RI 

waters from the discharge of invasive species within bilge water. The BMP's required within 

the draft VGP include prohibitions on releases of certain chemicals, including dispersants, 

detergents, emulsifiers, chemicals, and other substances; however it has been demonstrated16

that bilge water is a significant vector for transporting invasive species. The Department has 

added this condition but isolated it to those vessels that originate outside of the EEZ since the 

prohibition is intended to restrict the discharge of invasive species to Rhode Island waters.

6.22.3 In addition to meeting the draft VGP monitoring requirements in Section 2.2.3.5.1.1.4, all 

vessels covered under the VGP and operating in Rhode Island waters, after a Ballast Water 

Treatment System is installed, must sample and analyze the ballast water discharge at least 

once a year (provided appropriate facilities are available), using the California shipboard 

sampling protocol, or a compliance monitoring protocol developed by the USCG, whichever 

is most advanced and available. The monitoring results shall be submitted to EPA and the 

Department on an annual basis, consistent with the mechanisms used in the VGP for all other 

submissions. Coordination of sampling/monitoring shall be directed to Kevin Cute of the RI 

Coastal Resources Management Council. Such live organism monitoring shall include the 

collection of representative discharge samples and the testing (counting) of live organisms in 

such samples by qualified personnel in accordance with standard and/or best available 

sampling and analytical methods. In addition to EPA submissions, the applicant must submit 

all sampling results to the Office of Water Resources, RI Department of Environmental 

Management.

6.22.4 Graywater discharges to nutrient and pathogen impaired waters from vessels subject to the 

VGP covered under this permit shall be managed in accordance with Section 2.2.15 of the 

VGP. All requirements applied to special waters listed in Appendix G of the VGP apply to 

Rhode Island waters that are impaired for nutrients and/or pathogens. A specific list

identifying impaired waters within the State of Rhode Island is available at 

http://www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/305b/index.htm. This website contains the most recent 

Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report which shall be used to identify 

the impaired waterbodies. Specifically, appendixes Category 4A (Impaired but TMDL has 

been completed) and Category 5 (303{d} listed and impaired). This is necessary to comply 

with Rule 9b (no further degradation of low quality waters) of the State Water Quality 

Regulations. This condition shall also support the ''No Discharge Area designation of state 

waters pursuant to Section 312-(f)(3) of Public Law (Federal Water Pollution Control Act) 

and 92-500 as amended. 

6.23 Vermont 

Vermont certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.23.1 The Department certifies there is a reasonable assurance that discharges from vessels covered 

by EPA's VGP and sVGP will comply with the applicable provisions of 33 U.S.C §§ 1311, 

16 Muir, Adrianna A. PhD, California Research bureau, Managing Coastal Aquatic Invasive Species in California: 

Existing Policies and Policy Gaps: Requested by Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee; January 2011. 

CRB 11-001.

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1312, 1313, 1316, 1317 and 1341 (CWA §§ 301, 302, 303, 306, 307 and 401), and that 

permittees and their activities will not contravene applicable limitations, standards and other 

appropriate requirements of State law, provided the following conditions set forth in this 

Certification are met.

6.23.2 The operator of any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP who by accident, negligence, or 

otherwise causes the discharge, spillage, uncontrolled loss, seepage or filtration of oil or 

petroleum or chemical liquids or solid, liquid or gaseous products, or hazardous wastes which 

poses a potential threat to human health or the environment, shall immediately report to the 

Department by telephone at (802) 828-1535. 

6.23.3 All work and activities conducted by the permittee in accordance with the VGP or sVGP shall 

be consistent with the terms and conditions of this certification. Any regulated activities 

carried out in a manner inconsistent with the conditions set forth herein or inconsistent with 

the requirements specified in the VGP or sVGP, which are not more stringently conditioned 

under this certification, constitute a violation of this certification pursuant to 40 CFR 

§124.53(e)(l), and all instances of non-compliance with this certification must be immediately 

reported to the Department at (802) 828-1535. 

6.23.4 The discharge of wastewaters from pressure washing the bottom of vessels and any point 

source or non-point source pollution from spillage, sanding, sand blasting, or scraping vessels 

into Vermont waters from any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP is prohibited. 

6.23.5 Any discharge from any vessel covered under the VGP or sVGP that results in the further 

degradation of the chemical, physical, or biological integrity of Vermont waters listed on 

Vermont's Section 303(d) list is prohibited. 

6.23.6 This certification is only valid for those activities that fully comply with all terms and 

conditions of EPA's final VGP and sVGP and all other state laws applicable to such 

discharges. The Department reserves the authority to enforce any violation of the Vermont 

Water Quality Standards that results from any discharge and to enforce all other state laws 

applicable to such discharges.

6.23.7 Discharges that are not eligible for coverage under the VGP and sVGP and that require an 

individual permit must obtain an individual water quality certification or waiver from the 

Department.

6.23.8 The issuance of this certification does not authorize violation of any federal, state or local 

laws or regulations, nor does it obviate the necessity of obtaining such permits, including any 

Department permits or approvals, or permits or approvals from other governmental entities. 

6.24 Washington 

Washington certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

6.24.1 Conditions Related to Washington State Geography 

The conditions and requirements of the Vessel General Permit (VGP) shall extend to all 

surface waters of the state. (Authority- Article XXIV of the Washington State Constitution 

and 43 USC§ 1312.) 

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6.24.2 Conditions Related to State Law 

1. Except for discharges of firefighting foam conducted in accordance with VGP Part 2.2.5,

discharges to state waters are prohibited which would cause a sheen, film, sludge, foam,

turbidity, color, or odor. (Authority RCW 90.48.020, RCW 90.48.080, and WAC 173-

201A-260(2)(b)).

2. Based upon experience in Washington State with vessel discharges violating RCW

90.48.080 and requirements that the Department of Ecology has routinely imposed since

before issuance of the original VGP in 2008, the following instructions for vessels are

conditions of the VGP:

a.In order to minimize the generation and release of wastewater, vessel operators

shall use best management practices which include mechanical methods to

thoroughly clean bulk and break bulk cargo holds. Unless flammable or

explosive vapor concentrations make the risk too great, hold cleanliness shall be

documented photographically before washing with water. Solid wastes from hold

cleaning must be transferred onshore for disposal in an approved landfill. This

includes agricultural products such as grains.

b.The discharge of wash down water from holds containing metal ores, prilled coal

tar (pencil pitch), coal, and petroleum coke is prohibited.

c.The discharge of tank cleaning and wash down water from petroleum and

chemical tank ships is prohibited.

d.Discharge of wash water from holds which contained concrete, sand, gravel and

other similar inorganic products shall be allowed as long as it is managed to

prevent violation of any provision of state law or WQS, especially creating a

visible increase in turbidity or raising receiving water pH more than 0.5 units or

above 8.5.

e.The discharge of fish hold effluent while at a dock, pier, or mooring is

prohibited.

3. No vessel meeting the VGP definition of a large or medium cruise ship may discharge

graywater within 0.5 miles of a shellfish bed that is recreationally harvested or approved

for commercial harvest. (Authority – RCW 69.30.130).

4. The release to state waters of a harmful animal or plant species meets the state's

definition of pollution in RCW 90.48.020 and would be a violation of RCW 90.48.080,

WAC 173-201A-260(2)(a), and the sVGP. VGP Part 3 requires corrective actions when a

problem such as significant biofouling is known. VGP Part 2.2.23 requires vessel

operators to minimize the transport of attached living organisms from overseas or

between Captain of the Port (COTP) zones. Regular cleaning of hulls and niche areas is

the only routinely available nontoxic method for minimizing transport of attached living

organisms.

The release of nonnative aquatic animal species from in-water cleaning of vessel hulls, 

niche areas, and running gear without approval from the Washington Department of Fish 

and Wildlife (WDFW) is forbidden by RCW 77.15.253. The state VGP/sVGP webpage 

described in Condition 6.24.5. contains contact information and instructions for seeking 

WDFW approval.

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Allowing biofouling to accumulate and mature without hull cleaning can also be 

interpreted as an illegal release. Operators of vessels with hulls which have not been 

cleaned for months or that are involved in extended unmanned periods or other lay- ups 

as described in VGP Part 4.1.1.2 should conduct a hull inspection. A hull inspection 

under these circumstances is especially needed before leaving on a voyage to Washington 

State waters or a voyage between COTP zones within the state. In accordance with VGP 

Part 3, hull cleaning must be conducted when needed. 

5. Vessel operators must meet all applicable ballast water requirements in place as of July 2,

2012 in Chapter 77.120 RCW and Chapter 220-150 WAC.

6. Any discharge from emergency treatment of ballast water must meet the requirements in

Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.5.1 of the VGP.

6.24.3 Notification Condition 

The following incidents must be reported as soon as possible but no more than 24 hours after 

first becoming aware of their occurrence to the Washington State Department of Health 

(WDOH) at 360-236-3330 or 360-789-8962 (after hours). Information provided should 

include the discharge location (latitude and longitude), discharge volume, discharge type, 

date and time, and duration of discharge. WDOH need not be notified of any incident not 

occurring in state waters. (Authority - RCW 69.30.130.) 

1. A discharge of graywater in violation of VGP Parts 2.2.15, 5.1.1, or 5.2.1.

2. Any vessel discharge containing sewage if the discharge exceeds the bacterial or

suspended solids standards in 40 CFR § 140.3(d).

3. Any upset in a disinfection system.

6.24.4 State Inspection Authority 

1. In accordance with RCW 90.48.090, Department of Ecology inspectors shall have access

to the ship at reasonable times and locations for the purpose of sampling discharges

covered by the VGP, interviewing crew members, and inspecting log books and other

relevant records.

2. In accordance with WAC 220-150-033, WDFW inspectors shall have access at any time

to any vessel carrying or capable of carrying ballast water in order to provide technical

assistance, assess compliance, and enforce the requirements of Chapter 220-150 WAC.

6.24.5 State VGP/sVGP Webpage

In order to assist the public and shipping industry with sVGP requirements and related 

information, the Department of Ecology maintains a VGP/sVGP webpage at: 

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/permits/VGP/. The webpage describes the legal history 

of the vessel permits and provides links to important state and federal documents. The 

webpage has guidance for graywater discharges, oily water separator discharges, and in-water 

load line painting. Hull cleaning guidance will be developed and added. Information will be 

added on no discharge zones when they are granted. Guidance on pumpout facilities will be 

included. 

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6.25 Wisconsin

Wisconsin certified the VGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

General Conditions: 

6.25.1 The permittee shall allow WDNR reasonable entry onto the vessel for inspection, access to 

records, and collection of a discharge sample for determining compliance with the water 

quality certification and applicable laws [s. NR 205.07(1)(d), Wis. Adm. Code]. 

6.25.2 Activities not eligible for authorization under this state water quality certification include: 

a) Fills or deposition of material in navigable waters (s. 30.12, Wis. Stats.).

b) Activities likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a state designated threatened

or endangered species or a species proposed for such designation, or which is likely to

destroy or adversely modify the habitat of such species [s. 29.604, Wis. Stats.; s. NR

1.015(l)(a), Wis. Adm. Code].

c) Activities that would result, overall, in adverse impacts to fishery spawning habitat or

adversely affect avifauna breeding areas or substantially disrupt the movement of those

species which normally migrate from open water to upland or vice versa (i.e.,

amphibians, reptiles and mammals) [s. NR 102.01(2), Wis. Adm. Code].

d) Activities detrimental to the public interest in waters of the state [s. NR 102.01(2), 

Wis. Adm. Code].

Specific Conditions 

6.25.3 Oceangoing vessels eligible for coverage under the EPA VGP that enter the Great Lakes - St. 

Lawrence Seaway system and are transiting from beyond the 200- nautical-mile Exclusive 

Economic Zone (EEZ) shall perform open ocean ballast water exchange or saltwater flushing 

before entering the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Seaway system in order to ensure water 

quality standards are met that protect the general public interest (s. NR 102.01(2), Wis. Adm. 

Code; s. 4.1.2, WPDES Permit No. WI-0063835-01-1). 

6.25.4 Vessels covered by the EPA VGP shall comply with the ballast water discharge requirements 

in pars. (a) through (g) to meet water quality standards for protecting the general public 

interest (s. NR 102.01(2), Wis. Adm. Code). 

a) Vessels must obtain any permits required by the State of Wisconsin for vessel discharges 

(s. 283.35(1m), Wis. Stats.). WDNR’s ballast water discharge general permit WI0063835-01-1 requires vessels meeting the permit's applicability criteria to comply with 

the biological treatment performance standards shown in Table 6.24.1 and 

implementation schedule in pars. (b) through (d). Any treatment system installed to 

comply with these performance standards shall be operated to maximize destruction or 

removal of organisms in ballast water, with the objective of discharging no viable 

organisms (s. 5.2, WPDES Permit No. WI-00063835-01-1).

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Table 6.24.1 

Parameter Limit and Units Limit Type Sample Type

Organisms > 50 μm in 

minimum dimension

< 10 viable organisms 

per m3

Daily Average Composite

Organisms 10 - 50 μm 

in minimum dimension

< 10 viable organisms 

per ml

Daily Average Composite

Escherichia coli < 250 cfu per 100 ml Daily Average Composite

Intestinal enterococci < 250 cfu per 100 ml Daily Average Composite

b) For oceangoing vessels constructed prior to December 1, 2013, treatment systems shall 

be installed and operational to meet the performance standards for organisms in Table 

6.24.1 by the date provided in the EPA VGP.

c) For oceangoing vessels constructed on or after December 1, 2013, treatment systems 

shall be installed and operational to meet the performance standards for organisms in 

Table 6.24.1 prior to commencement of vessel operation in Wisconsin waters by the date 

provided in the EPA VGP.

d) In addition to the requirements in pars. (b) and (c), if ballast water treatment systems are 

approved and commercially available and compatible for a specific vessel, the vessel 

owner will make reasonable efforts to install a treatment system at the earliest practicable 

date.

e) Vessels that operate exclusively within the Great Lakes, and which meet the EPA VGP 

applicability requirements, will be addressed in Wisconsin's next ballast water discharge 

general permit. The requirements of that permit, to be issued in 2015, must be met [s. 

283.35(lm)(e), Wis. Stats.].

f) Discharges of ballast water from vessels employing ballast water treatment systems

(BWTS) using chlorine must meet a daily maximum total residual oxidants limit,

measured as total residual chlorine, of 38 μg/L (chs. NR 105 and 106, Wis. Adm.

Code).

g) Discharges of ballast water from vessels containing seawater in other than insignificant

residual amounts that remain in tanks and that cannot be pumped out or drained (no 

ballast on board) is prohibited unless it can be demonstrated that the discharge will

comply with Wisconsin chloride limits (Subchapter VII of ch. NR 106, Wis. Adm.

Code).

h) Discharges of graywater or sewage by a cruise ship into Lake Michigan, a No

Discharge Zone, are subject to penalties [s. 29.601(3), Wis. Stats.].

6.25.5 WDNR may require emergency treatment as part of a temporary compliance plan or 

temporary alternative strategy for vessels with unexchanged or untreated ballast water 

discharge of high-risk ballast water [s. NR 102.01(2), Wis. Adm. Code]. 

a) High-risk ballast water may not be discharged into waters of the state without WDNR

review and authorization. WDNR will determine whether ballast water proposed for 

discharge represents a high-risk for introduction of nonindigenous species and whether 

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feasible management alternatives are available to minimize that risk and protect waters

of the state.

b) Vessel owners or operators with unexchanged or untreated ballast must submit a 

request, providing sufficient additional information for WDNR to evaluate the request 

and determine whether an emergency ballast water management alternative is

warranted.

c) A vessel owner or operator shall not discharge untreated or unexchanged ballast water

without WDNR authorization after the compliance dates have gone into effect, except

in the following cases:

i. Where discharging is necessary to prevent jeopardy to the vessel, crew or 

passengers, or

ii. For discharges from tugs or unmanned barges.

d) WDNR may identify high-risk ballast water cases using factors including but not

limited to the following:

i. A nonindigenous species profile of source waters;

ii. The volume and frequency of exchanged ballast water discharged;

iii. Design limitations in vessels that prevent effective ballast exchanges;

iv. Vessel owner or vessel operator compliance history; or

v. Frequency of vessel claims for safety exemption.

e) WDNR, coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the States of Illinois,

Iowa, Michigan and Minnesota as needed may identify alternative locations for the 

discharge of unexchanged or untreated ballast water.

f) Nothing in this section relieves the vessel owner or operator of the responsibility for 

ensuring the vessel's safety and stability or the safety of the crew and passengers.

g) As an alternative to discharging high-risk ballast water, WDNR may authorize the use 

of BWTS identified as promising technology by EPA, USCG, neighboring states or a 

US ballast water testing research facility. US ballast water testing research facilities

include, but may not be limited to the Golden Bear, Great Ships Initiative and 

Maritime Environmental Resource Center.

6.25.6 BWTS used in Wisconsin waters must be specifically tested for use in freshwater (s. 4.1.2, 

WPDES Permit No. WI-0063835-01-1). 

6.25.7 All instances of non-compliance with this certification must be reported to WDNR 

immediately [s. NR 205.07(1)(s), Wis. Adm. Code]. 

6.25.8 Proper operation and maintenance of treatment facilities, as required by s. NR 205.070), Wis. 

Adm. Code, shall include routine visual inspections of the BWTS, to be conducted at least on 

a monthly basis. 

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Appendix A– Definitions

The following definitions apply to this permit. Terms not defined in this Appendix have the 

meaning given by 40 CFR §122.2. When a defined term appears in a definition, the defined term 

is placed in quotation marks as an aid to readers.

“Active Substance” means a substance or organism, including a virus or a fungus, that has a 

general or specific action on or against harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens. [source: BW 

Treaty Reg A-1(7)]

“Alternative Management System” means the meaning given to ballast water treatment systems 

given by the U.S. Coast Guard under 33 CFR 151.2026. 

“Appropriate Regional Office” means the regional office listed in Appendix B of the Permit 

responsible for the waters where the vessel spends the most time or is based in a home port. 

“Aqueous Film-Forming Foam” means the firefighting foam and seawater mixture discharged 

during training, testing, or maintenance operations. [source: 40 C.F.R 1700.4]

“Ballast Tank” means any tank or hold on a vessel used for carrying “ballast water,” whether or 

not the tank or hold was designed for that purpose [source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

“Ballast Water Exchange” see “Exchange.”

“Ballast Water” means any water and suspended matter taken on board a vessel to control or 

maintain, trim, draught, stability, or stresses of the vessel, regardless of how it is carried. [source: 

33 C.F.R 151.1504]

“Ballast Water Capacity” means the total volumetric capacity of any tanks, spaces, or 

compartments for carrying, loading, or discharging “ballast water,” including any multi-use 

tanks, space or compartment designed to allow carriage of “ballast water.”

“Bilgewater” means the wastewater from a variety of sources that accumulates in the lowest part 

of the vessel (the bilge). 

“Bioaccumulative” means the opposite of “Not Bioaccumulative”. 

“Biocide” means a substance or organism, including a virus or a fungus, which is introduced or 

produced to kill or eliminate organisms to prevent biofouling, to prevent the transfer of invasive 

species, or to eliminate organisms as part of the ballast water treatment process.

“Biodegradable” means the following for purposes of the VGP: 

• Regarding environmentally acceptable lubricants and greases, biodegradable means 

lubricant formulations that contain at least 90% (w/w (weight in weight concentration)) 

or grease formulations that contain at least 75% (w/w) of a constituent substance or 

constituent substances (only stated substances present above 0.10% shall be assessed) 

that each demonstrate either the removal of at least 70 percent of dissolved organic 

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carbon, production of at least 60 percent of the theoretical carbon dioxide, or 

consumption of at least 60 percent of the theoretical oxygen demand within 28 days. 

Acceptable test methods include: Organization for Economic Co-operation and 

Development Test Guidelines 301 A-F, 306, and 310, ASTM 5864, ASTM D-7373, 

OCSPP Harmonized Guideline 835.3110, and International Organization for 

Standardization 14593:1999. For lubricant formulations, the 10% (w/w) of the 

formulation that need not meet the above biodegradability requirements, up to 5% (w/w) 

may be nonbiodegradable (but not bioaccumulative) while the remainder must be 

inherently biodegradable. For grease formulations, the 25% (w/w) of the formulation that 

need not meet the above biodegradability requirement, the constituent substances may be 

either inherently biodegradable or non-biodegradable, but may not be bioaccumulative. 

Acceptable test methods to demonstrate inherent biodegradability include: OECD Test 

Guidelines 302C (>70% biodegradation after 28 days) or OECD Test Guidelines 301 A-F 

(>20% but <60% biodegradation after 28 days). 

• Regarding cleaning products, biodegradable means products that demonstrate either the 

removal of at least 70 percent of dissolved organic carbon, production of at least 60 

percent of the theoretical carbon dioxide, or consumption of at least 60 percent of the 

theoretical oxygen demand within 28 days. Acceptable test methods include: 

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Test Guidelines 301 A-F, 

306, and 310, and International Organization for Standardization 14593:1999. 

• Regarding biocidal substances, biodegradable means a compound or mixture that yields 

60 percent of theoretical maximum carbon dioxide and demonstrate a removal of at least 

70 percent of dissolved organic carbon within 28 days as described in EPA 712-C-98-075 

(OPPTS 835.3100 Aerobic Aquatic Biodegradation). 

“Boat Engine Wet Exhaust” means the seawater that is mixed and discharged with small boat 

propulsion engine exhaust to cool the exhaust and quiet the engine. [source: 40 C.F.R 1700.4]

“Captain of the Port” (COTP) means the Coast Guard officer designated as the COTP, or a 

person designated by that officer, for the COTP zone covering the U.S. port of destination. These 

COTP zones are listed in 33 CFR Part 3. [source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

“Chain Locker Effluent” means the accumulated precipitation and seawater that is emptied from 

the compartment used to store the vessel's anchor chain. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Coastal Exchange Zone” means an area greater than 50 nm from shore and greater than 200 

meters in depth. 

“Commercial Fishing Vessel” means any vessel which is documented under the laws of the 

United States or, if under five net tons, registered under the laws of any state, and used for 

commercial fishing or activities directly related to commercial fishing. (source: modified from 50 CFR 

§296.2)

“Commercial Vessel” means any “vessel” other than a “recreational vessel” or a vessel of the 

U.S. armed forces. 

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“Constructed’ means a state of construction of a vessel at which— 

• “the keel is laid; 

• “construction identifiable with the specific vessel begins;

• “ assembly of the vessel has begun comprising at least 50 tons or 1 percent of the 

estimated mass of all structural material of the vessel, whichever is less; or 

• “ the vessel undergoes a major conversion.” [patterned after the International 

Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and 

Sediments, 2004, regulation A-1(4)]

"Control Measure" means any BMP or other method (including effluent limitations) used to 

prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants to waters of the United States. 

“Controllable Pitch Propeller Hydraulic Fluid” means the hydraulic fluid that discharges into the 

surrounding seawater from propeller seals as part of normal operation, and the hydraulic fluid 

released during routine maintenance of the propellers. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Cruise Ship” means a passenger ship used commercially for pleasure cruises that provides 

overnight accommodations to passengers. 

“Darkness” means sunset to sunrise.

“Deck” means a horizontal surface or part thereof serving as a floor or structural support over the 

upper section of the hull and which is exposed to weather and sea such as freeboard and 

superstructure decks from which runoff may originate. 

“Deck Runoff” means the precipitation, washdowns, and seawater falling on the weather deck of 

a vessel and discharged overboard through deck openings. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Delivered” means the date of the owner’s/operator’s formal acceptance of the ship from the 

builder or another seller or the point in time when custody or ownership of the vessel officially 

transfers from the shipbuilder or other seller to the owner/operator. 

“Devices for which high quality data are available” means either:

a) any ballast water treatment system type approved by the United States Coast Guard 

under 46 CFR Part 162.060 or granted alternate management system status by the US 

Coast Guard under 33 CFR 151.2026; or 

b) any ballast water treatment system: 

(i) type approved by a foreign administration; 

(ii) for which efficacy testing was conducted by an independent third party testing 

organization, either in accordance with the ETV protocol or in a manner 

consistent with the ETV protocol with respect to QA/QC procedures, the use of 

validated methods including appropriate volumes of representative samples, and 

full description and documentation of test procedures, results and analyses; and

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(iii)all “Active Substance” or “Biocide” data (e.g., the full data package as submitted 

to the International Maritime Organization for approval) have all been made 

available to the US EPA. 

“Discharge Incidental to the Normal Operation of a Vessel” means those discharges that were 

excluded from the NPDES permitting program by operation of 40 CFR §122.3(a) as in effect on 

September 29, 2008. 

“Distillation and Reverse Osmosis Brine” means the concentrated seawater (brine) produced as a 

by-product of the processes used to generate freshwater from seawater. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Drydocking” or “next drydocking” for purposes of the VGP, means the next scheduled 

drydocking, consistent with the requirements of 46 CFR 31.10-21 (typically, at least every five 

years or sooner). In the context of ballast water implementation schedule, it means hauling out 

of a vessel or placing a vessel in a drydock or slipway for an examination of all accessible parts 

of the vessel's underwater body and all through-hull fittings and does not include emergency 

drydocking and emergency hull repairs. 

 “Elevator Pit Effluent” means the liquid that accumulates in, and is discharged from, the sumps 

of elevator wells on vessels. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants” means lubricants that are “biodegradable” and

“minimally-toxic,” and are “not bioaccumulative” as defined in this permit. For purposes of the 

VGP, products meeting the permit’s definitions of being an “Environmentally Acceptable 

Lubricant” include those labeled by the following labeling programs: Blue Angel, European 

Ecolabel, Nordic Swan, the Swedish Standards SS 155434 and 155470, Convention for the 

Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic (OSPAR) requirements, and 

EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE).

“ETV Protocol” means EPA’s final protocol for verification of ballast water treatment systems 

published in September 2010 and subsequent revisions. 

“Exchange” means to replace the water in a ballast tank using one of the following methods:

• “Empty/refill exchange” means to pump out the “ballast water” taken on in ports, 

estuarine, or territorial waters until the tank is empty, then refilling it with water 

from the “mid-ocean” or “coastal exchange zone” (as applicable); 

masters/operators should pump out as close to 100 percent of the “ballast water” 

as is safe to do so. . [modified from: 33 CFR §151.2025]

• “Flow through exchange” means to flush out “ballast water” by pumping in water 

from the “mid-ocean” or “coastal exchange zone” (as applicable) into the bottom 

of the tank and continuously overflowing the tank from the top until three full 

volumes of water has been changed to minimize the number of original organisms 

remaining in the tank. 

“Exclusive Economic Zone” (EEZ) means the area established by Presidential Proclamation 

Number 5030, dated March 10, 1983 (48 FR 10605) which extends from the base line of the 

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territorial sea of the United States seaward 200 miles, and the equivalent zone of Canada. [source: 

33 CFR §151.2025]

“Ferry” means a vessel having provisions for deck passengers and/or vehicles operating between 

two points over the most direct water route, operating on a frequent schedule, and offering a 

public service of a type normally attributed to a bridge or tunnel. [modified from: 46 CFR §70.10-1]

“Firemain Systems” means the seawater pumped through the firemain system for firemain 

testing, maintenance, and training, and to supply water for the operation of certain vessel 

systems. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Fish Hold” means the area where seafood or seafood products are kept once caught and kept 

fresh during the remainder of the voyage before being offloaded to shore or another tender 

vessel. The fish hold is typically a refrigerated seawater holding tank, where the seafood product 

is kept cool by mechanical refrigeration or ice. It can also include continuous flow systems 

needed to keep certain organisms such as lobster and crab alive until they are unloaded. Fish 

hold effluent is the water discharged from fish holds. 

“Fouling Organisms” means any aquatic flora and/or fauna which attach to, associate with, 

and/or grow on or in the vessel. 

“Freshwater Layup” means the potable water or freshwater taken from surrounding waters that is 

discharged from the water cooling system while the vessel is in port, and the cooling system is in 

lay-up mode (a standby mode where seawater in the system is replaced with potable water for 

corrosion protection). [modified from: 40 CFR §1700.5(d)]

“Gas Turbine Water Wash” means the water released from washing gas turbine components. 

[source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Graywater” means galley, bath, and shower water, as well as wastewater from lavatory sinks, 

laundry, and water fountains. [modified from 40 CFR §1700.4 but removed shop sinks]

“Gross Ton” means the size of the vessel as calculated using the formula set by the International 

Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969. GT = K * V where V = total volume in m3 

and K = a figure from 0.22 up to 0.32, depending on the ship’s size (calculated by: K = 0.2 +0.02 

* log10V).

“Hazardous materials” means, for purposes of the VGP, any hazardous material as defined in 49 

CFR § 171.8. 

“High quality data” see “Devices for which high quality data are available” 

“Hull Coating Leachate” means the constituents that leach, dissolve, ablate, or erode from the 

paint on the hull into the surrounding seawater. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“IMO Guidelines” mean the Guidelines for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water 

to Minimize the Transfer of Harmful Aquatic Organisms and Pathogens (IMO Resolution A.868 

(20), adopted November 1997). [source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

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“In Port” means, for the purposes of this permit, anchored, moored, or otherwise secured while 

located in waters subject to this permit which are inside the baseline of the U.S. territorial sea.

“Laker” means Existing Bulk Carrier Vessels built before January 1, 2009, that operate 

exclusively in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron (including Lake Saint Clair), Lake 

Michigan, Lake Superior, and the connecting channels (Saint Mary's River, Saint Clair River, 

Detroit River, Niagara River, and Saint Lawrence River to the Canadian border), including all 

other bodies of water within the drainage basin of such lakes and connecting channels). 

“Large Cruise Ship” means a passenger ship, used commercially for pleasure cruises, that 

provides overnight accommodations to passengers, and is authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard to 

carry 500 or more passengers. 

“Large Ferry” means a “ferry” that: a) has a capacity greater than or equal to 100 tons of cargo 

(e.g., for cars, trucks, trains, or other land-based transportation) or b) is authorized by the U.S. 

Coast Guard to carry 250 or more people. 

“Length of Vessel” means the horizontal distance between the foremost part of a vessel's stem to 

the aftermost part of its stern, excluding fittings and attachments. 

“Major Conversion” means a conversion of a vessel, that— 

• substantially alters the dimensions or carrying capacity of the vessel;

• changes the type of the vessel; or

• the intent of which, in the opinion of the director, is substantially to prolong its life 

[modified from 33 CFR §151.05 with the exception language specific to MARPOL removed].

 “MARPOL 73/78” means the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from 

Ships, 1973, as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto. [[source: modified from 40 CFR 

§110.1]

“MARPOL vessel” means a ship subject to Annex I of the International Convention for the 

Prevention of Pollution from Ships as implemented by the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships 

and the oil pollution provisions of U.S. Coast Guard regulations in 33 CFR Part 151, Subpart A. 

“Master” means captain, person-in-charge, or other party responsible for operation of the vessel. 

“Medium Cruise Ship” means a passenger ship, used commercially for pleasure cruises, that 

provides overnight accommodations to passengers, and is authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard to 

carry 100 to 499 passengers. 

“Mid-Ocean” means waters greater than 200 nm from any shore.

“Mile” means nautical mile as used in this permit, or 6076.1 feet or 1.852 kilometers. 

“Minimally-Toxic” means a substance must pass either OECD 201, 202, and 203 for acute 

toxicity testing, or OECD 210 and 211 for chronic toxicity testing. For purposes of the VGP, 

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equivalent toxicity data for marine species, including methods ISO/DIS 10253 for algae, ISO 

TC147/SC5/W62 for crustacean, and OSPAR 2005 for fish, may be substituted for OECD 201, 

202, and 203. If a substance is evaluated for the formulation and main constituents, the LC50 of 

fluids must be at least 100 mg/L and the LC50 of greases, two-stroke oils, and all other total loss 

lubricants must be at least 1000 mg/L. If a substance is evaluated for each constituent substance, 

rather than the complete formulation and main compounds, then constituents comprising less 

than 20 percent of fluids can have an LC50 between 10-100 mg/L or a no observed effect 

concentration (NOEC) between 1-10 mg/L, constituents comprising less than 5 percent of fluids 

can have an LC50 between 1-10 mg/L or a NOEC between 0.1-1 mg/L, and constituents 

comprising less than 1 percent of fluids can have an LC50 less than 1 mg/L or a NOEC between 

0-0.1 mg/L. 

“Minimally-Toxic Soaps, Cleaners, and Detergents” means any substance or mixture of 

substances which has an acute aquatic toxicity value (LE50) corresponding to a concentration 

greater than 10 ppm and does not produce “byproducts” with an acute aquatic toxicity value 

(LE50) less than 10 ppm. EPA expects that minimally-toxic soaps, cleaners, and detergents will 

contain little to no nonylphenols. 

“Minimize” means to reduce and/or eliminate to the extent achievable using control measures 

(including best management practices) that are technologically available and economically 

practicable and achievable in light of best marine practice.

“Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge” means the seawater taken into, and discharged 

from, motor gasoline tanks to eliminate free space where vapors could accumulate. [source: 40 

C.F.R 1700.4]

“NANPCA” means the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990. 

[source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

“NBIC” means the National Ballast Water Information Clearinghouse operated by the Coast 

Guard and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center as mandated under “NISA”. [source: 

33 CFR §151.2025]

“New Build” means vessels “constructed” after a given date. This permit contains “New Build” 

dates of December 19, 2008 (See Part 5.2), January 1, 2009 (See Part 2.2.3.5.3.3), December 1, 

2013 (See Part 2.2.3.5), and December 19, 2013 (See Parts 2.2.2, 2.2.9, 2.2.15.2) 

“Niche Areas,” for purposes of Parts 2.2.23, 4.1.3, and 4.1.4, means the areas identified in 

MEPC.207(62) found at 7.3 of that document. Thos areas include “propeller thrusters and 

propulsion units, sea chests, rudder stocks and hinges, stabilizer fin apertures, rope guards, stern 

tube seals, and propeller shafts, cathodic protection anodes, anchor chain and chain lockers, free 

flood spaces inherent to the ship’s design, sea chest and thruster tunnel grates, echo sounders and 

velocity probes, overboard discharge outlets and sea inlets, and areas prone to anti-fouling 

coating system damage or grounding. . .” [source, modified from MEPC.207(62)]

“NISA” means the National Invasive Species Act of 1996, which reauthorized and amended 

“NANPCA”. [source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

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“Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater” means the combined wastewater from the operation of 

distilling plants, water chillers, valve packings, water piping, low- and high-pressure air 

compressors, propulsion engine jacket coolers, fire pumps, and seawater and potable water 

pumps. [modified from: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Not Bioaccumulative” means - 

• the partition coefficient in the marine environment is log KOW <3 or >7 using test 

methods OECD 117 and 107, 

• molecular mass > 800 Daltons, 

• molecular diameter >1.5 nanometer, 

• BCF or BAF is <100 L/kg, using OECD 305, OCSPP 850.1710 or OCSPP 850.1730, or a 

field-measured BAF or

• polymer with MW fraction below 1,000 g/mol is <1%. 

“Noxious Liquid Substance” (“NLS”) has the same meaning given that term by 33 CFR Part 

151, Subpart A. 

“Oil” means oil of any kind or in any form, including but not limited to, petroleum, fuel oil, 

sludge, oil refuse, and oil mixed with wastes other than dredged spoil. [modified from: 33 CFR 

§154.105]

“Oil in Quantities that May be Harmful” means any discharge of oil having the effects identified 

in 40 CFR 110.3, provided that this term does not include those discharges specified in 40 CFR 

110.5(a) – (c).

“Oily Mixture” means a mixture, in any form, with any oil content, including, but not limited to: 

(1) slops from bilges; (2) slops from oil cargoes (such as cargo tank washings, oily waste, and 

oily refuse); (3) oil residue; and (4) oily ballast water from cargo or fuel oil tanks. [source: 33 CFR 

§151.05] 

“Owner or Operator” and “Owner/Operator” mean the owner or operator of any facility or 

activity subject to regulation under the NPDES program. For purposes of this permit, an 

“operator” means a party, including a charterer by demise, who: 

• has operational control over vessel activities, including the ability to modify those 

activities; or

• has day-to-day operational control of those activities that are necessary to ensure 

compliance with the permit or to direct workers to carry out activities required to 

comply with the permit. 

“Pacific Coastwise Trade” means vessels engaged in coastwise trade along the Pacific Coast of 

the United States, operating in and between ports in Alaska, California, Oregon, and 

Washington. 

“Pacific Nearshore Voyages” means voyages by any vessels engaged in the “Pacific Coastwise 

Trade” and vessels transiting between Pacific Ports that travel between more than one “Captain 

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of the Port Zone”, and all other vessels that sail from foreign, non U.S. Pacific, Atlantic, or Gulf 

of Mexico ports, which do not sail further than 200 nm from any shore, and that discharge or will 

discharge ballast water into the territorial sea or inland waters of Alaska or of the West Coast of 

the continental United States.

“Permittee” means the “Owner or Operator” of a permitted vessel.

“Person” means an individual, association, partnership, corporation, municipality, state or federal 

agency, or an agent or employee thereof. [source – 40 CFR §122.2]

“Phosphate Free” soaps, cleaners, and detergents means these materials which contain, by 

weight, 0.5 percent or less of phosphates or derivatives of phosphates. 

“Photographic Laboratory Drains” means the drains containing laboratory wastewater resulting 

from processing of photographic film. [adapted from: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Port” see “In Port.”

“Port or Place of Departure” means any port or place in which a vessel is anchored or moored. 

[source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

“Port or Place of Destination” means any port or place to which a vessel is bound to anchor or 

moor. [source: 33 CFR §151.2025]

“Recreational Vessel” means any “Vessel” that is manufactured or operated primarily for pleasure or 

leased, rented, or chartered to another for the pleasure of that person. This term does not include a 

vessel that is subject to Coast Guard inspection and that is engaged in commercial use or carries 

paying passengers. [source: 33 U.S.C. 1362(25)] 

“Saltwater Flushing” means the addition of “Mid-Ocean” (in the case of 2.2.3.7) or “Coastal 

Exchange Zone” (in Part 2.2.3.8) water to empty ballast water tanks; the mixing of the added 

water with residual ballast water and sediment through the motion of the vessel; and the 

discharge of the mixed water until loss of suction, such that the resulting residual water 

remaining in the tank has either a salinity greater than or equal to 30 parts per thousand (ppt) or a 

salinity concentration equal to the ambient salinity of the location where the uptake of the added 

water took place.

“Seafood Processing” means the conversion of aquatic animals from a raw to marketable form 

which involves more than evisceration of fish or other seafood at sea.

“Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge” means the discharge of seawater from a dedicated 

system that provides noncontact cooling water for other vessel systems. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Seawater Piping Biofouling Prevention” means the discharge of seawater containing additives 

used to prevent the growth and attachment of biofouling organisms in dedicated seawater cooling 

systems on selected vessels. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

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“Sewage” means human body wastes and the wastes from toilets and other receptacles intended 

to receive or retain body wastes that are discharged from vessels, except that with respect to 

commercial vessels on the Great Lakes, this term includes galley, bath, and shower water. 

“Sonar Dome Discharge” means the leaching of antifoulant materials into the surrounding 

seawater and the release of seawater or freshwater retained within the sonar dome. [source: 40 CFR 

§1700.4]

“Surface Vessel Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent” means the wastewater from a variety 

of sources that accumulates in the lowest part of the vessel (the bilge), and the effluent produced 

when the wastewater is processed by an oil water separator. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“Technical Water” means water that is collected, generated or managed on board for uses other 

than potable water. 

“Territorial sea” has the meaning assigned by section 502(8) of the Federal Water Pollution 

Control Act (33 USC 1362(8)). 

“Treated Bilgewater” means bilgewater treated with an oily water separator and having oil 

concentrations less than 15 ppm and that does not result in a discharge of oil in quantities that 

may be harmful, pursuant to 40 CFR Part 110. 

“Toxic Materials” means, for purposes of the VGP: any toxic pollutant identified in 40 CFR 

401.15. 

“United States” means the States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, 

Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 

Islands, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. [modified from CWA section 502(3) ]

“Underwater Ship Husbandry Discharges” means the materials discharged during the inspection, 

maintenance, cleaning, and repair of hulls or hull appendages performed while the vessel is 

waterborne. [modified from: 40 CFR §1700.4] 

“Untreated Bilgewater” means “Bilgewater” that is not treated or “Bilgewater” with a 

concentration of oil greater than 15 ppm. 

“Untreated Graywater” means graywater that is not treated to the standards found in Part 5.1.2.2

of this permit for large and medium cruise ships and the standards found in part 2.2.15.1(ii) for 

all other vessels.

“Vessel” means every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance being used as a 

means of transportation on “Waters Subject to this Permit.” [modified from CWA section 312(a)] 

“Vessels Unable to Voyage More than 1 mile from Shore” or “Vessels Unable to Voyage More 

than 3 miles from Shore” means vessels operating in waters which do not physically allow them 

to voyage more than 1 nm or 3 nm (as applicable) from shore (e.g., underway on inland river 

systems) or vessels which do not possess required certifications from the U.S. Coast Guard to 

operate more than 1 nm or 3 nm (as applicable) from shore. 

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“Visible Sheen” means a “silvery” or “metallic” sheen, gloss, or increased reflectivity; visual 

color; iridescence, or oil slick on the surface. [Source: 58 FR 12507]. 

“Voyage” means, for the purposes of VGP Part 4.1.1 (including its routine visual inspection 

provisions), that a voyage begins when the vessel departs a dock or other location at which it has 

loaded or unloaded (in whole or in part) cargo or passengers, and ends after it has tied-up at 

another dock or location in order to again conduct either of such activities. For example, for a 

barge on the Mississippi River, such voyage would begin when it departs a location at which it 

has cargo loaded onto it and end when cargo is unloaded at another location. For the purposes of 

the inspection provisions, an inspection can be conducted while the vessel is at the dock. 

• For vessels such as mobile oil and gas rigs, which are in a mode of transportation 

only when relocating between drill sites, a voyage for purposes of VGP Part 4.1.1

begins when the rig departs one site and ends when it arrives at the new site to 

commence operations which are not transportation-oriented, such as drilling. 

• For vessels such as harbor tugs, which may be in semi-continuous operation for 

up to a week within the same harbor and do not carry passengers or cargo, for 

purposes of VGP Part 4.1.1 a voyage begins when the crew or master takes charge 

of the vessel and ends when that crew or master are replaced by another crew or 

master, at which point a new voyage would begin due to the arrival of the new 

crew or master. For example, if crew changes occur every seven days on a harbor 

tug, the voyage begins with crew arrival, ends on day seven with departure of that 

crew, and a new voyage begins on day seven with arrival of the new crew. 

“Waters Subject to this Permit” means “waters of the U.S.” as defined in as 40 CFR 122.2 and 

extends to the outer reach of the 3-mile territorial sea as defined in section 502(8) of the CWA, 

unless otherwise excluded from coverage by Part 6 of the permit. 

“Welldeck Discharges” means the water that accumulates from seawater flooding of the docking 

well (welldeck) of a vessel used to transport, load, and unload amphibious vessels, and from 

maintenance and freshwater washings of the welldeck and equipment and vessels stored in the 

welldeck. [source: 40 CFR §1700.4]

“You” means the “Owner” or “Operator” of a permitted vessel. 

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Appendix B – EPA Regional 

Contacts

An updated EPA regional contact list 

is maintained at 

www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels

Region 1 – CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT, 

and 10 Tribal Nations 

5 Post Office Square - Suite 100 

Boston, MA 02109-3912 

New England States: (888) 372-7341 

Outside New England: (617) 918-1111 

Region 2 – NJ, NY, PR, VI, and 7 

Tribal Nations 

290 Broadway, 24th Floor 

New York, NY 10007-1866 

Phone: (212) 637-3660 

Region 3 – DE, DC, MD, PA, VA, WV

1650 Arch St 

Philadelphia, PA 19103 

Phone: 215-814-5000 

Toll Free w/in Region 3: (800) 438-2474

Region 4 – AL, FL, GA, KY, MS, NC, 

SC, TN, and 2 Tribes 

Atlanta Federal Center 

61 Forsyth St SW 

Atlanta, GA 30303-8960 

Phone: (404) 562-9756 

Phone: (404) 562-9304 

Toll Free: 1-800-241-1754 

Region 5 – IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI, 

and 35 Tribes 

Ralph Metcalfe Federal Building

77 W Jackson Blvd 

Chicago, IL 60604-3507 

Phone: (312) 353-2000 

Region 6 – LA, AR, OK, NM, TX, and 

65 Tribes

 1445 Ross Ave 

Dallas, TX 75202-2733 

Phone: (214) 665-6444 

Region 7 – IA, KS, MO, NE, and 9 

Tribes

11201 Renner Boulevard 

Lenexa, Kansas 66219 

Phone: (913) 551-7003 

Toll-Free: 1-800-223-0425 

Region 8 - CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY, 

and 27 Tribal Nations

1595 Wynkoop St 

Denver, CO 80202-1129 

Phone: (303) 312-6312 

Toll Free w/in Region 8: (800) 227-8917 

Region 9 – AZ, CA, HI, NV, and 

Pacific Islands and Native Tribes

75 Hawthorne St 

San Francisco, CA 94105-3901 

Phone: (415) 947-8000 

Toll Free: (866) EPA-WEST

Region 10 – AK, ID, OR, WA, and 

Native Tribes

1200 6th Ave, Suite 900 

Seattle, WA 98101-1128 

Phone: (206) 553-1200 

Toll Free: (800) 424-4EPA

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Appendix C – Areas Covered

This permit is effective in Waters of the United States for any state, territory, Indian Country, or 

the District of Columbia listed as covered under Part 6 of this permit. If states or tribes determine 

to seek authorization to issue vessel permits pursuant to the CWA, areas covered by this permit 

could change.

Appendix D – Reserved

Reserved. 

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Appendix E – Notice of Intent (NOI)

Draft NOI Instructions

Who Must File an NOI Form 

Under the provisions of the CWA, as amended (33 USC 1251 et. seq.), federal law prohibits 

discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel unless that discharge is covered under 

an NPDES Permit. To obtain authorization under this permit, operators must meet the eligibility 

requirements found in Part 1.2 of the Permit and, if required by Part 1.5.1.1 of the Permit, submit 

a complete and accurate NOI according to the requirements in Appendix E. NOIs must be signed 

in accordance with 40 CFR §122.22. 

An owner/operator is required to submit an NOI if the vessel meets either of the following two 

criteria:

• The vessel is greater or equal to 300 gross tons, 

Or

• The vessel has the capacity to hold or discharge more than 8 cubic meters (2113 

gallons) of Ballast Water.

Owner/Operators Required to Submit NOIs

Owners/operators required to submit an NOI for their vessel must submit an NOI in accordance 

with deadlines provided in the following table. 

Table 1: NOI Submission Deadlines/Discharge Authorization Dates

Category NOI Deadline Discharge Authorization Date*

Vessels authorized to discharge 

under the 2008 Vessel General 

Permit (VGP) 

No later than December 12, 

2013 or 7 days prior to 

discharge into waters subject 

to this permit, whichever is 

later

For eNOIs:

December 19, 2013 or, if not submitted by 

December 12, 2013, 7 days after complete 

NOI processed** by EPA 

For Paper NOIs: 30 days after complete NOI

processed by EPA

New Owner/Operator of Vessel 

– transfer of ownership and/or 

operation of a vessel whose 

discharge is previously 

authorized under this permit

By date of transfer of 

ownership and/or operation

Date of transfer or date EPA processes NOI, 

whichever is later 

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Table 1: NOI Submission Deadlines/Discharge Authorization Dates

Category NOI Deadline Discharge Authorization Date*

New vessels delivered to owner 

or operator after December 19, 

2013

For vessels submitting 

eNOIs:

7 days prior to discharge into 

waters subject to this permit

For vessels submitting Paper 

NOIs: At least 30 days prior 

to discharge into waters 

subject to this permit

For eNOIs:

7 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

For Paper NOIs: 

30 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

Existing vessels delivered to 

owner or operator after 

December 19, 2013 that were not 

previously authorized under this 

permit

For vessels submitting eNOIs:

7 days prior to discharge into 

waters subject to this permit

For vessels submitting Paper 

NOIs: At least 30 days prior 

to discharge into waters 

subject to this permit

For eNOIs: 

7 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

For Paper NOIs: 

30 days after complete NOI processed by EPA

* Based on a review of your NOI or other information, EPA may delay the discharge authorization date for further review, or 

may deny coverage under this permit and require submission of an application for an individual NPDES permit, as detailed in 

Part 1.8 of the permit. In these instances, EPA will notify you in writing of the delay or the request for submission of an 

individual NPDES permit application. If EPA requires an individual permit for an existing vessel previously covered by this 

general permit, EPA will allow the permittee a reasonable amount of time to obtain individual permit coverage before their 

general permit coverage terminates.

** NOI processing means that a complete electronic NOI has been submitted and successfully signed and certified by the 

permittee, or in the case of a paper NOI, that EPA has received your NOI and input the information into its electronic system. 

Submitting a paper NOI may result in processing delays dependent upon the volume of NOIs received by EPA.

Owner/Operators Not Required to Submit NOIs

An operator of a vessel is not required to submit an NOI pursuant to Part 1.5.1.2 of the permit if 

the vessel is less than 300 gross tons and does not have the capacity to hold or discharge more 

than 8 cubic meters (2113 gallons) of ballast water. Owner/operators that are not required to 

submit an NOI must sign and maintain a copy of the PARI form onboard their vessel. 

Where to File NOI Form

All NOIs must be completed and filed using the eNOI system at www.epa.gov/vessels/enoi. 

Alternatively, if you meet one of the exemptions from electronic reporting found in Part 1.14 of 

the VGP, you may send your completed NOI to the Notice Processing Center at EPA 

Headquarters, EPA Vessel Notice Processing Center, Mail Code 4203M, 1200 Pennsylvania 

Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20460. If you have questions about whether you need to file an 

NOI or questions about completing the form, refer to www.epa.gov/vessels/enoi or contact the 

NOI center at 1-866-352-7755. Updated contact information will be maintained at 

www.epa.gov/npdes/vessels. 

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Completing the Form

Section A: Owner/Operator Information 

Provide the full legal name of the person, firm, public organization, or other entity that is the 

owner/operator of the vessel, as well as the name of the certifying official. Include the complete 

contact information for the owner/operator. The mailing address, city, state/province and 

country, as well as zip code and phone number are required. The email address is required if the

NOI is submitted electronically. The fax number is optional. Please do not use abbreviations for 

cities, and when using abbreviations for US states, please use only the official postal 

abbreviations which may be found at https://www.usps.com/send/official-abbreviations.htm. 

Section B: Vessel Information 

Provide the vessel name, previous VGP tracking number (if applicable), registered identification 

number (if applicable), vessel International Maritime Organization (IMO) number (if applicable), 

call sign, and port of registry. You must complete all of these fields if those data are available 

(failure to submit available information is a permit violation). Provide port of registry by 

spelling out entire name of location (e.g., New Orleans, Louisiana, United States). Select the type 

of vessel by checking the appropriate box. Enter the vessel tonnage in gross tons, the length in 

feet, and the ballast water capacity in gallons or m3. Enter the year in which the vessel was built, 

as well as the date of last dry-dock and the date of the next scheduled or anticipated dry-dock. If 

the vessel is not required to have measurements in gross tons, gross registered tons may be used 

instead; however, you must indicate that the measurements are in gross registered tons. Indicate 

whether the vessel currently holds or has ever held an NPDES permit other than the VGP. 

Include the permit number, dates of permit coverage, and discharges covered. If the vessel is 

covered under this General Permit and this NOI is being submitted for a transfer of ownership to 

continue coverage, check the appropriate box, and include the date of transfer. Enter the NAICS 

code: a listing of NAICS codes can be found at http://www.census.gov/eos/www/naics/. 

Section C: General Voyage Information

Enter the vessel home port, or if it does not have a home port, enter the U.S. port it most 

frequently visits. Provide the name of each US port the vessel may visit during the Permit term.

Do not use abbreviations for cities, and when using abbreviations for US states, please use only 

the official postal abbreviations which may be found at: 

https://www.usps.com/send/official-abbreviations.htm. This list does not need to be exhaustive, 

but should be based on ports visited in the past and should be representative of the geographic 

area in which the vessel travels. Indicate the number of overnight berths for passengers and crew 

separately for each vessel, as well as maximum passenger and crew capacity typical of normal 

operation of the vessel. Also, select the appropriate box to indicate if the vessel will travel in 

ocean waters seaward of the US exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and more than 200 nautical 

miles from any shore during the period of permit coverage. Indicate whether the vessel engages 

in nearshore voyages. 

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Section D: Discharge Information 

From the list provided, select each applicable discharge type that your vessel may create. All 

discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel are included in permit coverage; you do 

not have to select each discharge type for your vessel to receive coverage for all discharges you 

may have; however, when completing the NOI, vessel owner/operators should list all discharge 

types they expect from their vessels. Select the appropriate box to indicate whether the vessel 

ever engages or has the capacity to engage in industrial operations, such as seafood processing, 

energy exploration, or mining. If the vessel will be using a ballast water treatment system, check 

the appropriate box and answer the questions related to the discharge of residual biocides. The 

requirements for vessels using a ballast water treatment system can be found in Part 2.2.3 of the 

Permit. Indicate whether the vessel currently has any onboard treatment systems for any waste 

stream listed in the permit, such as an Advanced Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS) used 

for graywater, an exhaust gas washwater treatment system, or an Oily Water Separator (OWS) 

used for bilgewater. Describe the treatment system, including what waste stream it treats, the 

type and design of the system, and treatment capacity. Provide information on the frequency and 

method of ballast tank sediment disposal and whether the vessel currently has a ballast water 

management plan. Indicate whether the vessel has an anti-foulant coating applied to the hull, 

what type of coating, when it was last applied, and briefly describe the vessel hull husbandry 

practices, including frequency of hull cleaning and method usually used. Indicate if your vessel 

is required to collect samples for analytical monitoring and for which of the discharges you are 

required to sample. 

Section E: Certification 

Carefully read the certification language. For eNOIs, to indicate your acceptance of these terms, 

check the “accept” box. Checking this box acts as a virtual signature on the NOI and indicates 

the operators consent to adhere to all the applicable terms of the Permit. By completing and 

submitting the NOI, the owner/operator certifies that every applicable General Permit 

requirement will be met. Include the name and title of the person completing the eNOI. The 

person completing the eNOI will have a box to check for “accept” which will act as virtual 

signature.

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NOI Form

NPDES EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

Form Washington, DC 20460 Form Approved OMB No. 

_ _ _ _ - _ Notice of Intent (NOI) for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation 2040-0004

of a Vessel under the NPDES Vessel General Permit

Submission of this completed Notice of Intent (NOI) constitutes notice that the entity in Section A intends to be authorized to 

discharge pollutants to waters of the United States, from the vessel identified in Section B, under EPA’s Vessel General Permit 

(VGP). Submission of the NOI also constitutes notice that the party identified in Section B of this form has read, understands, 

and meets the eligibility conditions of Part 1 of the VGP; agrees to comply with all applicable terms and conditions of the VGP; 

and understands that continued authorization under the VGP is contingent on maintaining eligibility for coverage. In order to be 

granted coverage, all information required on this form must be completed. Please read and make sure you comply with all 

permit requirements.

A. Vessel Owner/Operator Information

1. Name: 

2a. IRS Employer Information Number: _ _ - _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (if applicable)

2b. Company IMO number ________________________(if applicable)

3. Name of Certifying Official 

4. Mailing Address: a. Street: 

b. City: c. State/Province: _ _ d. Zip code: _ 

e. Country: 

f. Phone (include country code): g. Fax (Optional): 

h. E-mail: 

B. Vessel Information

1. Vessel Name: 

2. Did your vessel previously have permit coverage under the 2008 VGP? □ Yes □ No 

2a. If yes, 2008 VGP Permit Tracking Number(s): 

3a. Registered Number: (if applicable) 

3b. Vessel IMO number: (if applicable) 

4. Vessel Call Sign 

5. Flag State/Port of Registry (complete spellings of state and port city names required) 

6. Type of Vessel (select one primary vessel type, and secondary vessel type where appropriate)

□ Commercial Fishing Vessel 

□ Medium Cruise Ship (100 to 499 passengers)

□ Large Cruise Ship (500+ passengers)

□ Large Ferry (250+ passengers or more than 100 tons of 

cargo, e.g., cars, trucks, trains, or other land- based 

transportation.)

□ Barge (□ Hopper Barge, □ Tank Barge, □ Other Barge)

□ Oil or Gas Tanker

□ Research/Survey Vessel

□ Emergency and Rescue Vessel

□ Bulk Carrier

□ Container Ship

□ General Cargo Ship

□ Roll-on Roll-Off

□ Utility Vessel, including Tug boats and Offshore supply 

vessels (□ Tug, □ Offshore supply vessel, □ Other Utility))

□ Reefer

□ Other: 

7. Vessel Dimensions: a. Tonnage: □ gross tons or □ gross registered tons

 b. Length: □ feet or □ meters

8. Ballast Water Capacity: □ gallons or □ meters3

9. Date and Year Vessel Built (i.e., build date or date keel laid): _________________________

10. a. Date of last dry-dock: .b. Date of next scheduled/anticipated dry-dock: 

11. Does vessel currently have, or has vessel ever held, an NPDES permit, other than the VGP, for any part, discharge, or 

operation of the vessel? 

□ Yes □ No

If yes, please provide the following: 

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Final 2013 VGP

11a. Permit Number: 

11b. Effective Date of Permit: 11c. Expiration Date of Permit

11d. Discharges permitted: 

12. Is this a transfer of ownership? □ Yes □ No 

12a. If Yes, provide date of transfer: 

12b. If yes, provide previous vessel permit tracking number(s): 

13. Identify the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code that best represents your vessel service for which 

you are seeking coverage (if applicable): _________

C. Vessel Voyage Information

1. Home Port/Most Frequented US Port: 

2. US Ports Vessel Anticipates Visiting During Permit Term: 

3. Number of overnight berths: a. Passengers b. Crew 

a. Maximum passenger capacity b. Crew 

4. Does vessel travel beyond the US EEZ and more than 200 nm from any shore? □ Yes □ No

5. Is the vessel engaged in Nearshore Voyages? □ Yes □ No

D. Discharge Information: 

1. Select all applicable discharges vessel may generate:

□ Deck Washdown and Runoff

□ Bilgewater/Oily Water Separator Effluent

□ Ballast Water

□ Anti-fouling hull coatings

□ Aqueous Film Forming Foams (AFFF)

□ Boiler/Economizer Blowdown

□ Cathodic Protection

□ Chain Locker Effluent

□ Controllable Pitch Propeller Hydraulic Fluid and other 

Oil-to-Sea Interfaces

□ Distillation or Reverse Osmosis Brine

□ Elevator Pit Effluent

□ Firemain Systems

□ Freshwater layup

□ Gas Turbine Washwater

□ Graywater

□ Motor Gasoline and Compensating Discharge

□ Non-Oily Machinery Wastewater

□ Refrigeration and Air Condensate Discharge

□ Seawater Cooling Overboard Discharge

□ Seawater Piping Biofouling Prevention

□ Small Boat Engine Wet Exhaust

□ Sonar Dome Discharge

□ Underwater Ship Husbandry

□ Welldeck Discharges

□ Graywater Mixed with Sewage

□ Exhaust Gas Scrubber Washwater Discharge 

□ Fish Hold/ Fish Hold Cleaning Effluent 

2. Does the vessel ever engage in or have capacity to engage in industrial operations? □ Yes □ No 

a. If yes, please select appropriate box:

□ Seafood processing

□ Energy exploration

□ Mining

□ Other: 

3. Will the vessel be using a ballast water treatment system which discharges residual biocides? 

□ Yes □ No

b. If yes, are residual biocide concentrations expected to be below those listed in Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 of the Permit? 

□ Yes □ No 

c. List the biocide residuals or derivatives that may be discharged by the ballast water treatment system: 

 

 

 

4. Is your vessel required to collect analytical monitoring? If so, for which of the following discharges must you conduct 

monitoring:

□ Ballast Water

□ Bilgewater 

□ Exhaust Gas Scrubber Effluent

□ Graywater If yes, please check the appropriate answer: □ I use or □ I do not use a treatment system for Graywater

5. Does the vessel have onboard treatment systems for any waste stream(s) covered by this permit? 

□ Yes □ No

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5.a. If yes, check all that apply and complete the following information for each treatment system: □ Ballast Water, □ Bilgewater, 

□ Exhaust Gas Scrubber Effluent, □ Graywater, □ Graywater mixed with Sewage, □ Other treatment system: _______________

5.b. Treatment system type/design and manufacturer: 

5.c. Treatment System Capacity: 

5.d. Residuals (wastes) generated by this treatment system: 

5.e. How they are disposed: 

For ballast water, bilgewater, and graywater mixed with sewage, is the system type approved by the US Coast Guard: □ Yes □

No

For ballast water, has the system been determined by the US Coast Guard to be an alternate management system (AMS): □ Yes □

No

Average Treatment System Flow Rate: □ gallons/hour □ m3/hour

Peak Treatment System Flow Rate: □ gallons/hour □ m3/hour

Residuals (wastes) generated by this treatment system: 

How they are disposed: 

6. Ballast Water and Invasive Species Management– 

a. How often is the ballast tank cleaned and sediment disposed of? 

b. How and where do you typically dispose of ballast tank sediment? 

c. Does vessel have an existing ballast water management plan? □ Yes □ No

7. a. Type of anti-fouling hull coating on the vessel and list specific product: 

□ Copper Based □ Non-Copper Based 

b. When and where was anti-fouling hull coating last applied: 

c. Describe hull husbandry practices, such as frequency of hull cleaning, method used, how niches and propellers are cleaned, etc: 

 

 

d. Date of last hull cleaning: 

e. Method of last hull cleaning: 

f. Location of last hull cleaning: 

g. Date of next scheduled/anticipated hull cleaning: 

h. Anticipated method of next cleaning: 

i. Planned location of next cleaning: 

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E. Certifier Name and Title

I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in 

accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the information contained 

therein. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering 

the information, the information contained is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I have no 

personal knowledge that the information submitted is other than true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant 

penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations.

Print Name: 

Title: 

Signature: 

Email: Date: _ _ - _ _ - _ _

NOI Preparer (Complete if NOI was prepared by someone other than the certifier)

Prepared By: 

Organization: 

Phone: Ext: 

Email: 

Date: _ _ - _ _ - _ _

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Appendix F – Notice of Termination (NOT)

NOT Instructions

Who Must File a NOT Form

Any owner/operator who was required to submit an NOI under Part 1.5.1.1 and meets the conditions of 

Part 1.6.1.2 of the General Permit is required to submit a NOT to end coverage under this permit. 

If you have questions about whether you need to file a NOT or questions about completing the form, refer 

to (website will be inserted after finalization of this permit) or contact the NOI center at 1-866-352-7755. 

Where to File NOT Form

All NOTs must be completed and filed using the eNOI system at www.epa.gov/vessels/enoi or send your 

completed NOT to the Notice Processing Center at EPA Headquarters, EPA Vessel Notice Processing 

Center, Mail Code 4203M, U.S. EPA, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20460. 

Completing the Form 

Section A: Owner/Operator Information 

Provide the full legal name of the person, firm, public organization, or other entity that is the 

owner/operator of the vessel, as well as the name of the certifying official. Include the complete contact 

information for the owner/operator. The mailing address, city, state, and zip code, as well as phone 

number are required. The fax number and email address are optional. Provide the date permit coverage 

began under the applicable NOI. Select the appropriate box to indicate why you are submitting a NOT to 

end permit coverage. There are three options to choose from: because you have sold or transferred the 

vessel and are no longer the owner or operator, because the vessel is no longer traveling in or discharging 

to waters subject to this permit, or because you have obtained individual or alternative permit coverage. If 

you have sold or transferred the vessel, please provide the date of transfer as well as the name and contact 

information of the new owner. If you have obtained an individual or alternative permit, please provide the 

permit number and date permit coverage begins in the space given. 

Section B: Vessel Information 

Provide the vessel name, registered identification number, IMO number, call sign, and port of registry. 

Section C: Certification 

Carefully read the certification language. To indicate your acceptance of these terms, check the “accept” 

box. Checking this box acts as a virtual signature on the NOT and indicates that you understand these 

vessel discharges will no longer be authorized under the general permit, and that any discharge of these 

effluent streams without a permit is a violation of the CWA. Include the name and title of the person 

completing the NOT. The person completing the NOT will have a box to check for “accept” which will 

act as virtual signature.

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NOT Form

NPDES FORM Form Approved. OMB No 2040-0004

_ _ _ _ - _ Please See Instructions Before Completing This Form

EPA Notice of Termination (NOT) of Coverage under NPDES General Permit for 

Discharges Incidental to Normal Vessel Operation

Submission of this Notice of Termination constitutes notice that the party identified in Section B of this form is no longer 

authorized to discharge any discharge incidental to the normal operation of a vessel under the NPDES program for the vessel 

identified in Section III of this form. All necessary information must be included on this form. Refer to the instructions at the end 

of this form.

A. Permit Information

1. NPDES Permit Tracking Number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

2. Reason for Termination (check one only): 

a. □ You transferred operational control to another 

operator. 

Date of transfer: 

b. □ You terminated vessel operations in waters subject to 

the General Permit. 

c. □ You obtained coverage under an individual or 

alternative NPDES permit. 

Permit Number: 

Effective Date: 

B. Vessel Owner/Operator Information

1. Name: 

2. IRS Employer Information Number: _ _ - _ _ _ _ _ _ _

3. Name of Certifying Official: 

 

4. Mailing Address: 

a. Street: 

b. City: 

c. State: _ _ d. Zip code: _ _ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _

e. Phone: _ _ _ - _ _ _ - _ _ _ _ 

f. Fax (Optional): _ _ _ - _ _ _ - _ _ _ _

g. E-mail: 

C. Vessel Information

1. Vessel Name: 

2. Vessel ID/Registered Number 

3. Vessel Call Sign 

4. Port of Registry 

D. Certifier Name and Title: 

I certify under penalty of law that the information contained in this form is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate 

and complete. I understand that by submitting this Notice of Termination, I am no longer authorized to discharge any effluent 

associated with normal vessel operation under this general permit, and that discharging pollutants related to the normal operation 

of a vessel into waters of the United States is unlawful under the CWA where the discharge is not authorized by an NPDES 

permit. I also understand that the submittal of this Notice of Termination does not release an operator from liability for any 

violations of this permit or the CWA.

Furthermore, I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or 

supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the 

information contained therein. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly 

responsible for gathering the information, the information contained is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, 

and complete. I have no personal knowledge that the information submitted is other than true, accurate, and complete. I am aware 

that there are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for

knowing violations.

Print Name: 

Title: 

Signature: Date: _ _ - _ _ - _ _

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Appendix G – Waters Federally Protected Wholly or in Part for Conservation 

Purposes

The list provided in Appendix G is a complete list of marine sanctuaries, units of the National Park 

System, units of the National Wildlife Refuge System, National Wilderness areas, and national wild and 

scenic rivers system components. EPA notes that this list is gathered from sources maintained by the 

administrative agency and the EPA only removed areas that are clearly terrestrial and do not contain 

waters suitable for permitted vessels or are unlikely to be impacted by permitted vessel discharges (e.g. 

The Washington Monument). Inclusion in this list does not mean the area is suitable for operation for 

vessels greater than 79 feet.

You must comply with the specific effluent limits in Parts 2.2.2, 2.1.3, 2.2.6, , 2.2.15, 2.2.16 and 5.1.1.1.1

[etc.] affecting the following federally protected waters to the extent located in waters subject to this 

permit: 

• Marine Sanctuaries designated under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (16 USC 1431 

et seq.) and implementing regulations found at 15 CFR Part 922 and 50 CFR Part 404 or 

Marine national monuments designated under the Antiquities Act of 1906 (see Part G.1

for a list of such areas);

• A unit of the National Park System, including National Preserves and National 

Monuments (see Part G.2 for a list of such areas);

• A unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System, including Wetland Management Districts, 

Waterfowl Production Areas, National Game Preserves, Wildlife Management Area, and 

National Fish and Wildlife Refuges (see Part G.3 for a list of such areas);

• National Wilderness Areas (see Part G.4 for a list of such areas); and

• Any component designated under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System (see Part 

G.5 for a list of such areas).

• Any waterbody designated as an Outstanding National Resource Water (ONRW) by a 

State or Tribe (see Part G.6 for a description of such areas) 

G.1 Marine Sanctuaries under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act (16 USC 1431 et seq.) and 

National Marine Monuments Designated under the Antiquities Act of 1906 

• Channel Islands (California) 

• Cordell Bank (California) 

• Fagatele Bay (American Samoa)(U.S.)

• Florida Keys (Florida)

• Flower Garden Banks (Texas)

• Grays Reef (Georgia)

• Gulf of the Farallones (California)

• Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whales (Hawaii)

• Monitor (North Carolina)

• Monterey Bay (California)

• Olympic Coast (Washington) 

• Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (Hawaii)

• Stellwagen Bank (Massachusetts)

• Thunder Bay (Michigan)

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G.2 National Parks and Refuges: National Park Service, Department of the Interior 

Alabama

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park

Little River Canyon National Preserve

Russell Cave National Monument

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site

Alaska

Alagnak Wild River

Alaska Public Lands

Aleutian World War II National Historic Area

Aniakchak National Monument and Preserve

Bering Land Bridge National Preserve

Cape Krusenstern National Monument

Denali National Park and Preserve

Gates Of The Arctic National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Katmai National Park and Preserve

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kobuk Valley National Park

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Noatak National Preserve

Sitka National historical Park

Wrangell - St Elias National Park and Preserve

Yukon - Charley Rivers National Preserve

American Samoa

National Park of American Samoa

Arizona

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Grand Canyon National Park

Hohokam Pima National Monument

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Navajo National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Parashant National Monument

Pipe Spring National Monument

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Tonto National Monument

Tuzigoot National Monument

Walnut Canyon National Monument 

Wupatki National Monument

Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area

Arkansas

Buffalo National River

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

California

Alcatraz Island

Cabrillo National Monument

Channel Islands National Park

Devils Postpile National Monument

Fort Point National Historic Site

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

John Muir National Historic Site

Joshua Tree National Park

Lava Beds National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument

Pinnacles National Monument

Point Reyes National Seashore

Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National 

Historical Park

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Yosemite National Park

Colorado

Bent's Old Fort National Historical Site

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Colorado National Monument

Curecanti National Recreation Area

Dinosaur National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

Yucca House National Monument

Connecticut

Quinebaug & Shetucket Rivers Valley National 

Heritage Corridor

Delaware

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic 

Trail

District of Columbia

Anacostia Park

Capitol Hill Parks

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic 

Trail

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

Meridian Hill Park

National Capital Parks-East

National Mall & Memorial Parks

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Florida

Big Cypress National Preserve

Biscayne National Park

Canaveral National Seashore

Castillo De San Marcos National Monument

De Soto National Memorial

Dry Tortugas National Park

Everglades National Park

Fort Caroline National Memorial

Fort Matanzas National Monument

Gulf Islands National Seashore

Timucuan Ecological and Historical Preserve

Georgia

Augusta Canal national Heritage Area

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military 

Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Fort Frederica National Monument

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Ocmulgee National Monument

Guam

War In The Pacific National Historical Park

Hawaii

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Final 2013 VGP

Haleakala National Park

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Pu`uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Puukohola Heiau National Historical Site

Idaho

Craters Of The Moon National Monument and 

Preserve

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Minidoka Internment National Monument

Nez Perce National Historical Park

Yellowstone National Park

Illinois

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Indiana

George Rogers Clark National Historical Park

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial

Iowa

Effigy Mounds National Monument

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Kansas

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Kentucky

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Mammoth Cave National Park

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Louisiana

Cane River National Heritage Area

Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

Poverty Point National Monument

Maine

Acadia National Park

Maine Acadian Culture

Saint Croix Island International Historic Site

Maryland

Antietam National Battlefield

Assateague Island National Seashore

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic 

Trail

Catoctin Mountain Park

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Clara Barton National Historic Site

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic 

Shrine

Fort Washington Park

Glen Echo Park

Harmony Hall

Monocacy National Battlefield

Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm

Piscataway Park

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Thomas Stone National Historic Site

Massachusetts

Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Boston National Historical Park

Boston African American National Historic Site

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Cape Cod National Seashore

Essex National Heritage Area

Lowell National Historical Park

Minute Man National Historic Site

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

Salem Maritime National Historic Site

Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site

Springfield Armory National Historic Site

Michigan

Isle Royale National Park

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Minnesota

Grand Portage National Monument

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Pipestone National Monument

Voyageurs National Park

Mississippi

Gulf Islands National Seashore

Natchez National Historical Park

Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail

Missouri

Jefferson National Expansion Memorial

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Ozark National Scenic Riverways

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Wilson's Creek National Battlefield

Montana

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Glacier National Park

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Yellowstone National Park

Nebraska

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Homestead National Monument of America

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Niobrara National Scenic River

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Nevada

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

New Hampshire

New Jersey

Appalachian National Scenic River

Delaware National Scenic River

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Ellis Island National Monument

Gateway National Recreation Area

Great Egg Harbor River

Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River

New Jersey Pinelands National Reserve

New Mexico

Aztec Ruins National Monument

Capulin Volcano National Monument

El Malpais National Monument

El Morro National Monument

Fort Union National Monument

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Petroglyph National Monument

Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument

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Final 2013 VGP

White Sands National Monument

New York

Castle Clinton National Monument

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Ellis Island National Monument

Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor

Fire Island National Seashore

Gateway National Recreation Area

Governors Island National Monument

Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

National Parks of New York Harbor

Saratoga National Historical Park

Statue Of Liberty National Monument

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

North Carolina

Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Wright Brothers National Monument

North Dakota

Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Northern Mariana Islands

American Memorial Park

Ohio

Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial

Oklahoma

Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail

Oregon

Crater Lake National Park

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Oregon Caves National Monument

Pennsylvania

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Delaware National Scenic River

Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Johnstown Flood National Monument

Lackawanna Heritage Valley

Lower Delaware National Wild and Scenic River

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Rivers Of Steel National Heritage Area

Schuylkill River Valley National Heritage Area

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

South Carolina

Congaree National Park

Fort Moultrie National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument

South Dakota

Jewel Cave National Monument

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Missouri Recreational River 

Tennessee

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Obed Wild and Scenic River

Texas

Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Amistad National Recreation Area

Big Bend National Park

Big Thicket National Preserve

Chamizal National Memorial

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

Padre Island National Seashore

Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River

Utah

Arches National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Hovenweep National Monument

Natural Bridges National Monument

Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Vermont

Virgin Islands

Buck Island Reef National Monument

Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument

Virginia

Assateague Island National Seashore

Booker T Washington National Monument

Cape Henry Memorial

Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic 

Trail

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Colonial National Historical Park

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

Great Falls Park

Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the 

Potomac

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

Theodore Roosevelt Island Park

Washington

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area

Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail

Mount Rainier National Park

North Cascades National Park

Olympic National Park

Ross Lake National Recreation Area

San Juan Island National Historical Park

West Virginia

Bluestone National Scenic River

Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network

Gauley River National Recreation Area

New River Gorge National River

Wisconsin

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Saint Croix National Scenic River

Wyoming

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

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Final 2013 VGP

Devils Tower National Monument

Fossil Butte National Monument

Grand Teton National Park

John D Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway

Yellowstone National Park

G.3 National Wildlife Refuges (Including, but Not Limited to Wetlands 

Management Districts, Waterfowl Production Areas, National Game 

Preserves, Wildlife Management Areas, and National Fish and Wildlife 

Refuges)

As of 9/30/06, there were 547 national wildlife refuges in all 50 states. Neches River 

NWR in Texas and the Rocky Mountain Front Conservation Area in Montana were the 

546th and 547th national wildlife refuges. There were 37 Wetland Management Districts 

in the Prairie Pothole region of the northern Great Plains. 

The acreage for the NWRS as of 9/30/06 was 96,369,969.43 acres. The system 

encompasses 547 national wildlife refuges, 37 Wetland Management Districts (which 

include Waterfowl Production Areas in 204 counties), and 50 Coordination Areas which 

are managed by the states.

Refuges that have boundaries in multiple states are listed only in the state where the main 

visitor entrance is located. Maps of each area can be found by accessing the National Fish 

and Wildlife Services website at: http://www.fws.gov/refuges/refugeLocatorMaps/

index.html. 

Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge CO 

Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge AK

Alaska Peninsula National Wildlife Refuge AK

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge NC

Amagansett National Wildlife Refuge NY

Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge TX

Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge OR

Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge TX

Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge CO 

Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge FL

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge AK

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge ND

Arrowwood Wetland Management District ND

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife 

Refuge FL

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge NV

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge MA

Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge LA

Audubon National Wildlife Refuge ND

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge VA

Baker Island National Wildlife Refuge HI

Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge AR

Bamforth National Wildlife Refuge WY

Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge OR

Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge GA

Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge OR

Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge LA

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge LA

Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge LA

Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge ID 

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge UT

Becharof National Wildlife Refuge AK

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge MT

Benton Lake Wetland Management District MT

Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge LA

Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge AR

Big Muddy National Fish & Wildlife Refuge MO

Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge IN 

Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge MN

Big Stone Wetland Management District MN

Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge AZ

Bitter Lake National Wildlife Refuge NM

Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge LA

Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge GA

Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge MD

Block Island National Wildlife Refuge RI 

Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge LA

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge DE

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge AL

Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge GA

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge NM

Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge MT

Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge NE

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Final 2013 VGP

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge TX

Breton National Wildlife Refuge LA

Browns Park National Wildlife Refuge CO 

Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge VI

Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge PR

Cache River National Wildlife Refuge AR

Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge AL

Caloosahatchee National Wildlife Refuge FL

Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge LA

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge WV

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge NJ

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge OR

Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge SC

Carlton Pond Waterfowl Production Area ME

Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge SC

Castle Rock National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge LA

Catahoula National Wildlife Refuge LA

Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge NC

Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge FL

Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge OH

Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge MT

Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge ND

Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge FL

Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge TN

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge VA

Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge AL

Cibola National Wildlife Refuge AZ

Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge MO

Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge KY

Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge WY

Cold Springs National Wildlife Refuge OR

Coldwater River National Wildlife Refuge MS

Columbia National Wildlife Refuge WA

Colusa National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Conboy Lake National Wildlife Refuge WA

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Crane Meadows National Wildlife Refuge MN

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge NE

Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge TN

Cross Island National Wildlife Refuge ME

Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge FL

Currituck National Wildlife Refuge NC

Cypress Creek National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Dahomey National Wildlife Refuge MS

D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge LA

Deep Fork National Wildlife Refuge OK

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge ID 

Delta National Wildlife Refuge LA

Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge ND

Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge PR

Desert National Wildlife Range NV

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge IA 

Detroit Lakes Wetland Management District MN

Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge MI

Devils Lake Wetland Management District ND

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife 

Refuge CA 

Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge IA 

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge WA

Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge MD

Eastern Shore Of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge VA

Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge NJ

Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge FL

Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge NY

Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife 

Refuge VA

Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Erie National Wildlife Refuge PA

Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife 

Refuge SC

Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge AL

Fallon National Wildlife Refuge NV

Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge AR

Fergus Falls Wetland Management District MN

Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge UT

Fisherman Island National Wildlife Refuge VA

Flattery Rocks National Wildlife Refuge WA

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge KS

Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge ND

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge NE

Fox River National Wildlife Refuge WI

Franklin Island National Wildlife Refuge ME

Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge WA

Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge MN

Grand Bay National Wildlife Refuge MS

Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuge LA

Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuge WI

Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge ID 

Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge NH

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge VA

Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge MA

Great River National Wildlife Refuge MO

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge NJ

Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge FL

Green Cay National Wildlife Refuge VI

Grulla National Wildlife Refuge TX

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Guam National Wildlife Refuge GU

Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge TX

Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge HI

Halfbreed Lake National Wildlife Refuge MT

Hamden Slough National Wildlife Refuge MN

Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge HI

Handy Brake National Wildlife Refuge LA

Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge MI

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge GA

Hart Mountain National Antelope Range OR

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge TN

Havasu National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Hawaiian Islands National Wildlife Refuge HI

Hillside National Wildlife Refuge MS

Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge FL

Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge AR

Horicon National Wildlife Refuge WI

Howland Island National Wildlife Refuge HI

Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Huron National Wildlife Refuge MI

Huron Wetland Management District SD

Hutton Lake National Wildlife Refuge WY

Imperial National Wildlife Refuge AZ

Innoko National Wildlife Refuge AK

Page 168 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Iowa Wetland Management District IA 

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge NY

Island Bay National Wildlife Refuge FL

Izembek National Wildlife Refuge AK

J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge ND

J. Clark Salyer Wetland Management District ND

J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge FL

James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge HI

James River National Wildlife Refuge VA

Jarvis Island National Wildlife Refuge HI

John H. Chafee National Wildlife Refuge RI 

John Hay National Wildlife Refuge NH

John Heinz at Tinicum National Wildlife Refuge PA

Johnston Island National Wildlife Refuge HI

Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian WhiteTailed Deer WA

Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge HI

Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge AK

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge AK

Kern National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Key West National Wildlife Refuge FL

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge HI

Kirtlands Warbler Wildlife Management Area MI

Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge KS

Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge AK

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge ID 

Koyukuk National Wildlife Refuge AK

Kulm Wetland Management District ND

Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge LA

Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge SD

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge TX

Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge PR

Lake Alice National Wildlife Refuge ND

Lake Andes National Wildlife Refuge SD

Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge ND

Lake Isom National Wildlife Refuge TN

Lake Mason National Wildlife Refuge MT

Lake Ophelia National Wildlife Refuge LA

Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge NH

Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge FL

Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge FL

Lake Zahl National Wildlife Refuge ND

Las Vegas National Wildlife Refuge NM

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge MT

Leopold Wetland Management District WI

Leslie Canyon National Wildlife Refuge AZ

Lewis and Clark National Wildlife Refuge WA

Litchfield Wetland Management District MN

Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge WA

Little River National Wildlife Refuge OK

Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge ND

Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge ND

Louisiana Wetland Management District LA

Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge TN

Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge TX

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge FL

Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge NC

Madison Wetland Management District SD

Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge ME

Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge LA

Marin Islands National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Martin National Wildlife Refuge MD

Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge MA

Mathews Brake National Wildlife Refuge MS

Matlacha Pass National Wildlife Refuge FL

Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge NC

Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge NM

McFaddin National Wildlife Refuge TX

McKay Creek National Wildlife Refuge OR

McNary National Wildlife Refuge WA

Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge MT

Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge FL

Michigan Wetland Management District MI

Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge MI

Middle Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge IL 

Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge HI

Mille Lacs National Wildlife Refuge MN

Mingo National Wildlife Refuge MO

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge ID 

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge VT

Modoc National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge MA

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge NY

Morgan Brake National Wildlife Refuge MS

Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuge AL

Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge IN 

Nantucket National Wildlife Refuge MA

National Key Deer Refuge FL

Navassa Island National Wildlife Refuge PR

Necedah National Wildlife Refuge WI

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge OR

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge RI 

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge WA

North Platte National Wildlife Refuge NE

Nowitna National Wildlife Refuge AK

Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge MS

Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge VA

Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge WV

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge GA

Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge OR

Ouray National Wildlife Refuge UT

Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge MA

Oxford Slough Waterfowl Production Area ID 

Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge NY

Panther Swamp National Wildlife Refuge MS

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge MA

Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge WY

Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Wildlife 

Management Area IN 

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge NC

Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge NC

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge FL

Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge GA

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge GA

Pine Island National Wildlife Refuge FL

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge NC

Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge AR

Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge IA 

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge DE

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge ME

Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District NE

Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge VA

Red River National Wildlife Refuge LA

Page 169 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge TN

Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge MN

Roanoke River National Wildlife Refuge NC

Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge NV

Rydell National Wildlife Refuge MN

Sabine National Wildlife Refuge LA

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge RI 

Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge OK

San Bernard National Wildlife Refuge TX

San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge CA 

San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge CA 

San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge VI

Santee National Wildlife Refuge SC

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge SC

Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge ME

Selawik National Wildlife Refuge AK

Seney National Wildlife Refuge MI

Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge OK

Shell Keys National Wildlife Refuge LA

Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge MN

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge MI

Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge OR

Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge MA

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge CA CA 

St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge MS

St. Croix Wetland Management District WI

St. Johns National Wildlife Refuge FL

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge FL

St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge FL

Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge WA

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge CT 

Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge NV

Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge ME

Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge NJ

Susquehanna River National Wildlife Refuge MD

Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge MO

Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge NC

Tallahatchie National Wildlife Refuge MS

Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge MN

Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge NY

Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge FL

Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge TN

Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge LA

Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge AK

Tewaukon National Wildlife Refuge ND

Texas Point National Wildlife Refuge TX

Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge OK

Togiak National Wildlife Refuge AK

Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge WI

Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge TX

Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge RI 

Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge OR

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge CA 

Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge IL 

UL Bend National Wildlife Refuge MT

Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge OR

Union Slough National Wildlife Refuge IA 

Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge OR

Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish 

Refuge MN

Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge LA

Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge ND

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge NE

Valley City Wetland Management District ND

Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge NJ

Wapanocca National Wildlife Refuge AR

Washita National Wildlife Refuge OK

Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge GA

Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge NY

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge AL

White River National Wildlife Refuge AR

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge OK

Willapa National Wildlife Refuge WA

Willow Creek-Lurline Wildlife Management Area CA 

Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge GA

Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge MS

Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge AK

Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge AK

G.4 National Wilderness Areas

As of 7/22/2009, there were 776 national wilderness areas in the United States. Section 4(c) of the 

Wilderness Act of 1964 (16 U.S. C. 1131-1136) strictly prohibits motorized vehicles, vessels, 

aircrafts or equipment for the purposes of transport of any kind within the boundaries of all 

wilderness areas. Exceptions to this Act include motorized vehicle use for the purposes of 

gathering information on minerals or other resources; for the purposes of controlling fire, insects, 

or disease; and in wilderness areas where aircraft or motorized boat use have already been 

established prior to 1964. 

The following is a list of all National Wilderness Areas within the United States. GIS shape files 

for each area can be found by accessing the following website: 

www.wilderness.net/index.cfm?fuse=NWPS&sec=geography#tabs-4.

Page 170 of 194
 

Final 2013 VGP 

Alabama 

Cheaha Wilderness 

Alaska 

Aleutian Islands Wilderness 

Andreafsky Wilderness 

Becharof Wilderness 

Bering Sea Wilderness 

Bogoslof Wilderness 

Chamisso Wilderness 

Chuck River Wilderness 

Coronation Island Wilderness 

Denali Wilderness 

Endicott River Wilderness 

Forrester Island Wilderness 

Gates of the Arctic Wilderness 

Glacier Bay Wilderness 

Hazy Islands Wilderness 

Innoko Wilderness 

Izembek Wilderness 

Arizona 

Apache Creek Wilderness 

Aravaipa Canyon Wilderness 

Arrastra Mountain Wilderness 

Aubrey Peak Wilderness 

Baboquivari Peak Wilderness 

Bear Wallow Wilderness 

Beaver Dam Mountains 

Wilderness 

Big Horn Mountains Wilderness 

Cabeza Prieta Wilderness 

Castle Creek Wilderness 

Cedar Bench Wilderness 

Chiricahua National Monument 

Wilderness 

Chiricahua Wilderness 

Cottonwood Point Wilderness 

Coyote Mountains Wilderness 

Dos Cabezas Mountains 

Wilderness 

Eagletail Mountains Wilderness 

East Cactus Plain Wilderness 

Escudilla Wilderness 

Fishhooks Wilderness 

Fossil Springs Wilderness 

Four Peaks Wilderness 

Galiuro Wilderness 

Gibraltar Mountain Wilderness 

Grand Wash Cliffs Wilderness 

Granite Mountain Wilderness 

Harcuvar Mountains Wilderness 

Dugger Mountain Wilderness 

Karta River Wilderness 

Katmai Wilderness 

Kenai Wilderness 

Kobuk Valley Wilderness 

Kootznoowoo Wilderness 

Koyukuk Wilderness 

Kuiu Wilderness 

Lake Clark Wilderness 

Maurille Islands Wilderness 

Misty Fjords National Monument 

Wilderness 

Mollie Beattie Wilderness 

Noatak Wilderness 

Nunivak Wilderness 

Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt 

Chuck Wilderness 

Pleasant/Lemusurier/Inian Islands 

Wilderness 

Russell Fjord Wilderness 

Hells Canyon Wilderness 

Hellsgate Wilderness 

Hummingbird Springs Wilderness 

Imperial Refuge Wilderness 

Juniper Mesa Wilderness 

Kachina Peaks Wilderness 

Kanab Creek Wilderness 

Kendrick Mountain Wilderness 

Kofa Wilderness 

Mazatzal Wilderness 

Miller Peak Wilderness 

Mount Baldy Wilderness 

Mount Logan Wilderness 

Mount Nutt Wilderness 

Mount Tipton Wilderness 

Mount Trumbull Wilderness 

Mount Wilson Wilderness 

Mt. Wrightson Wilderness 

Muggins Mountain Wilderness 

Munds Mountain Wilderness 

Needle's Eye Wilderness 

New Water Mountains Wilderness 

North Maricopa Mountains 

Wilderness 

North Santa Teresa Wilderness 

Organ Pipe Cactus Wilderness 

Paiute Wilderness 

Pajarita Wilderness 

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs 

Wilderness 

Sipsey Wilderness 

Saint Lazaria Wilderness 

Selawik Wilderness 

Semidi Wilderness 

Simeonof Wilderness 

South Baranof Wilderness 

South Etolin Wilderness 

South Prince of Wales Wilderness 

Stikine-LeConte Wilderness 

Tebenkof Bay Wilderness 

Togiak Wilderness 

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror 

Wilderness 

Tuxedni Wilderness 

Unimak Wilderness 

Warren Island Wilderness 

West Chichagof-Yakobi 

Wilderness 

Wrangell-Saint Elias Wilderness 

Pine Mountain Wilderness 

Pusch Ridge Wilderness 

Rawhide Mountains Wilderness 

Red Rock-Secret Mountain 

Wilderness 

Redfield Canyon Wilderness 

Rincon Mountain Wilderness 

Saddle Mountain Wilderness 

Saguaro Wilderness 

Salome Wilderness 

Salt River Canyon Wilderness 

Santa Teresa Wilderness 

Sierra Ancha Wilderness 

Sierra Estrella Wilderness 

Signal Mountain Wilderness 

South Maricopa Mountains 

Wilderness 

Strawberry Crater Wilderness 

Superstition Wilderness 

Swansea Wilderness 

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness 

Table Top Wilderness 

Tres Alamos Wilderness 

Trigo Mountain Wilderness 

Upper Burro Creek Wilderness 

Wabayuma Peak Wilderness 

Warm Springs Wilderness 

West Clear Creek Wilderness 

Wet Beaver Wilderness 

White Canyon Wilderness 

Page 171 of 194 
 

Final 2013 VGP 

Harquahala Mountains Wilderness 

Hassayampa River Canyon 

Wilderness 

Havasu Wilderness 

Arkansas 

Big Lake Wilderness 

Black Fork Mountain Wilderness 

Buffalo National River 

Wilderness 

Caney Creek Wilderness 

California 

Agua Tibia Wilderness 

Ansel Adams Wilderness 

Argus Range Wilderness 

Beauty Mountain Wilderness 

Big Maria Mountains Wilderness 

Bigelow Cholla Garden 

Wilderness 

Bighorn Mountain Wilderness 

Black Mountain Wilderness 

Bright Star Wilderness 

Bristol Mountains Wilderness 

Bucks Lake Wilderness 

Cache Creek Wilderness 

Cadiz Dunes Wilderness 

Cahuilla Mountain Wilderness 

Caribou Wilderness 

Carrizo Gorge Wilderness 

Carson-Iceberg Wilderness 

Castle Crags Wilderness 

Cedar Roughs Wilderness 

Chanchelulla Wilderness 

Chemehuevi Mountains 

Wilderness 

Chimney Peak Wilderness 

Chuckwalla Mountains 

Wilderness 

Chumash Wilderness 

Cleghorn Lakes Wilderness 

Clipper Mountain Wilderness 

Coso Range Wilderness 

Coyote Mountains Wilderness 

Cucamonga Wilderness 

Darwin Falls Wilderness 

Dead Mountains Wilderness 

Death Valley Wilderness 

Desolation Wilderness 

Dick Smith Wilderness 

Dinkey Lakes Wilderness 

Domeland Wilderness 

El Paso Mountains Wilderness 

Elkhorn Ridge Wilderness 

Emigrant Wilderness 

Peloncillo Mountains Wilderness 

Petrified Forest National 

Wilderness Area 

Dry Creek Wilderness 

East Fork Wilderness 

Flatside Wilderness 

Hurricane Creek Wilderness 

Hollow Hills Wilderness 

Hoover Wilderness 

Ibex Wilderness 

Imperial Refuge Wilderness 

Indian Pass Wilderness 

Inyo Mountains Wilderness 

Ishi Wilderness 

Jacumba Wilderness 

Jennie Lakes Wilderness 

John Krebs Wilderness 

John Muir Wilderness 

Joshua Tree Wilderness 

Kaiser Wilderness 

Kelso Dunes Wilderness 

Kiavah Wilderness 

King Range Wilderness 

Kingston Range Wilderness 

Lassen Volcanic Wilderness 

Lava Beds Wilderness 

Little Chuckwalla Mountains 

Wilderness 

Little Picacho Wilderness 

Machesna Mountain Wilderness 

Magic Mountain Wilderness 

Malpais Mesa Wilderness 

Manly Peak Wilderness 

Marble Mountain Wilderness 

Matilija Wilderness 

Mecca Hills Wilderness 

Mesquite Wilderness 

Mojave Wilderness 

Mokelumne Wilderness 

Monarch Wilderness 

Mount Lassic Wilderness 

Mt. Shasta Wilderness 

Newberry Mountains Wilderness 

Nopah Range Wilderness 

North Algodones Dunes 

Wilderness 

North Fork Wilderness 

North Mesquite Mountains 

Wilderness 

Woodchute Wilderness 

Woolsey Peak Wilderness 

Leatherwood Wilderness 

Poteau Mountain Wilderness 

Richland Creek Wilderness 

Upper Buffalo Wilderness 

Pine Creek Wilderness 

Pinnacles Wilderness 

Pinto Mountains Wilderness 

Piper Mountain Wilderness 

Piute Mountains Wilderness 

Pleasant View Ridge Wilderness 

Red Buttes Wilderness 

Resting Spring Range Wilderness 

Rice Valley Wilderness 

Riverside Mountains Wilderness 

Rocks and Islands Wilderness 

Rodman Mountains Wilderness 

Russian Wilderness 

Sacatar Trail Wilderness 

Saddle Peak Hills Wilderness 

San Gabriel Wilderness 

San Gorgonio Wilderness 

San Jacinto Wilderness 

San Mateo Canyon Wilderness 

San Rafael Wilderness 

Sanhedrin Wilderness 

Santa Lucia Wilderness 

Santa Rosa Wilderness 

Sawtooth Mountains Wilderness 

Sequoia-Kings Canyon 

Wilderness 

Sespe Wilderness 

Sheep Mountain Wilderness 

Sheephole Valley Wilderness 

Silver Peak Wilderness 

Siskiyou Wilderness 

Snow Mountain Wilderness 

South Fork Eel River Wilderness 

South Fork San Jacinto 

Wilderness 

South Nopah Range Wilderness 

South Sierra Wilderness 

South Warner Wilderness 

Stateline Wilderness 

Stepladder Mountains Wilderness 

Surprise Canyon Wilderness 

Sylvania Mountains Wilderness 

Page 172 of 194 
Final 2013 VGP

Farallon Wilderness

Fish Creek Mountains Wilderness

Funeral Mountains Wilderness

Garcia Wilderness

Golden Trout Wilderness

Golden Valley Wilderness

Granite Chief Wilderness

Granite Mountain Wilderness

Grass Valley Wilderness

Hauser Wilderness

Havasu Wilderness

Old Woman Mountains 

Wilderness

Orocopia Mountains Wilderness

Otay Mountain Wilderness

Owens Peak Wilderness

Owens River Headwaters 

Wilderness

Pahrump Valley Wilderness

Palen/McCoy Wilderness

Palo Verde Mountains Wilderness

Phillip Burton Wilderness

Picacho Peak Wilderness

Thousand Lakes Wilderness

Trilobite Wilderness

Trinity Alps Wilderness

Turtle Mountains Wilderness

Ventana Wilderness

Whipple Mountains Wilderness

White Mountains Wilderness

Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel 

Wilderness

Yosemite Wilderness

Yuki Wilderness

Colorado

Black Canyon of the Gunnison 

Wilderness

Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness

Buffalo Peaks Wilderness

Byers Peak Wilderness

Cache La Poudre Wilderness

Collegiate Peaks Wilderness

Comanche Peak Wilderness

Dominguez Canyon Wilderness

Eagles Nest Wilderness

Flat Tops Wilderness

Fossil Ridge Wilderness

Great Sand Dunes Wilderness

Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness

Gunnison Gorge Wilderness

Holy Cross Wilderness

Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness

Indian Peaks Wilderness

James Peak Wilderness

La Garita Wilderness

Lizard Head Wilderness

Lost Creek Wilderness

Maroon Bells-Snowmass 

Wilderness

Mesa Verde Wilderness

Mount Evans Wilderness

Mount Massive Wilderness

Mount Sneffels Wilderness

Mount Zirkel Wilderness

Neota Wilderness

Never Summer Wilderness

Platte River Wilderness

Powderhorn Wilderness

Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness

Raggeds Wilderness

Rawah Wilderness

Rocky Mountain National Park 

Wilderness

Sangre de Cristo Wilderness

Sarvis Creek Wilderness

South San Juan Wilderness

Spanish Peaks Wilderness

Uncompahgre Wilderness

Vasquez Peak Wilderness

Weminuche Wilderness

West Elk Wilderness

Florida

Alexander Springs Wilderness

Big Gum Swamp Wilderness

Billies Bay Wilderness

Bradwell Bay Wilderness

Cedar Keys Wilderness

Chassahowitzka Wilderness

Florida Keys Wilderness

Island Bay Wilderness

J.N. "Ding" Darling Wilderness

Juniper Prairie Wilderness

Lake Woodruff Wilderness

Little Lake George Wilderness

Marjory Stoneman Douglas 

Wilderness

Mud Swamp/New River 

Wilderness

Passage Key Wilderness

Pelican Island Wilderness

St. Marks Wilderness

Georgia

Big Frog Wilderness

Blackbeard Island Wilderness

Blood Mountain Wilderness

Brasstown Wilderness

Cohutta Wilderness

Cumberland Island Wilderness

Ellicott Rock Wilderness

Mark Trail Wilderness

Okefenokee Wilderness

Raven Cliffs Wilderness

Rich Mountain Wilderness

Southern Nantahala Wilderness

Tray Mountain Wilderness

Wolf Island Wilderness

Hawaii

Haleakala Wilderness Hawaii Volcanoes Wilderness

Idaho

Big Jacks Creek Wilderness

Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers 

Wilderness

Gospel-Hump Wilderness

Hells Canyon Wilderness

Little Jacks Creek Wilderness

Sawtooth Wilderness

Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness

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Craters of the Moon National 

Wilderness Area

Frank Church-River of No Return 

Wilderness

North Fork Owyhee Wilderness

Owyhee River Wilderness

Pole Creek Wilderness

Illinois

Bald Knob Wilderness

Bay Creek Wilderness

Burden Falls Wilderness

Clear Springs Wilderness

Crab Orchard Wilderness

Garden of the Gods Wilderness

Lusk Creek Wilderness

Panther Den Wilderness

Indiana

Charles C. Deam Wilderness

Kentucky

Beaver Creek Wilderness Clifty Wilderness

Louisiana

Breton Wilderness Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Lacassine Wilderness

Maine

Caribou-Speckled Mountain 

Wilderness

Moosehorn (Baring Unit) 

Wilderness

Moosehorn Wilderness

Massachusetts

Monomoy Wilderness

Michigan

Beaver Basin Wilderness

Big Island Lake Wilderness

Delirium Wilderness

Horseshoe Bay Wilderness

Huron Islands Wilderness

Isle Royale Wilderness

Mackinac Wilderness

McCormick Wilderness

Michigan Islands Wilderness

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

Rock River Canyon Wilderness

Round Island Wilderness

Seney Wilderness

Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness

Sylvania Wilderness

Minnesota

Agassiz Wilderness Boundary Waters Canoe Area 

Wilderness

Tamarac Wilderness

Mississippi

Black Creek Wilderness Gulf Islands Wilderness Leaf Wilderness

Missouri

Bell Mountain Wilderness

Devils Backbone Wilderness

Hercules-Glades Wilderness

Irish Wilderness

Mingo Wilderness

Paddy Creek Wilderness

Piney Creek Wilderness

Rockpile Mountain Wilderness

Montana

Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

Anaconda Pintler Wilderness

Bob Marshall Wilderness

Cabinet Mountains Wilderness

Great Bear Wilderness

Lee Metcalf Wilderness

Medicine Lake Wilderness

Mission Mountains Wilderness

Red Rock Lakes Wilderness

Scapegoat Wilderness

Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness

UL Bend Wilderness

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Gates of the Mountains 

Wilderness

Rattlesnake Wilderness Welcome Creek Wilderness

Nebraska

Fort Niobrara Wilderness Soldier Creek Wilderness

Nevada

Alta Toquima Wilderness

Arc Dome Wilderness

Arrow Canyon Wilderness

Bald Mountain Wilderness

Becky Peak Wilderness

Big Rocks Wilderness

Black Canyon Wilderness

Black Rock Desert Wilderness

Boundary Peak Wilderness

Bridge Canyon Wilderness

Bristlecone Wilderness

Calico Mountains Wilderness

Clover Mountains Wilderness

Currant Mountain Wilderness

Death Valley Wilderness

Delamar Mountains Wilderness

East Fork High Rock Canyon 

Wilderness

East Humboldts Wilderness

Eldorado Wilderness

Far South Egans Wilderness

Fortification Range Wilderness

Goshute Canyon Wilderness

Government Peak Wilderness

Grant Range Wilderness

High Rock Canyon Wilderness

High Rock Lake Wilderness

High Schells Wilderness

Highland Ridge Wilderness

Ireteba Peaks Wilderness

Jarbidge Wilderness

Jimbilnan Wilderness

Jumbo Springs Wilderness

La Madre Mountain Wilderness

Lime Canyon Wilderness

Little High Rock Canyon 

Wilderness

Meadow Valley Range 

Wilderness

Mormon Mountains Wilderness

Mount Grafton Wilderness

Mt. Charleston Wilderness

Mt. Irish Wilderness

Mt. Moriah Wilderness

Mt. Rose Wilderness

Muddy Mountains Wilderness

Nellis Wash Wilderness

North Black Rock Range 

Wilderness

North Jackson Mountains 

Wilderness

North McCullough Wilderness

Pahute Peak Wilderness

Parsnip Peak Wilderness

Pinto Valley Wilderness

Quinn Canyon Wilderness

Rainbow Mountain Wilderness

Red Mountain Wilderness

Ruby Mountains Wilderness

Santa Rosa-Paradise Peak 

Wilderness

Shellback Wilderness

South Egan Range Wilderness

South Jackson Mountains 

Wilderness

South McCullough Wilderness

South Pahroc Range Wilderness

Spirit Mountain Wilderness

Table Mountain Wilderness

Tunnel Spring Wilderness

Wee Thump Joshua Tree 

Wilderness

Weepah Spring Wilderness

White Pine Range Wilderness

White Rock Range Wilderness

Worthington Mountains 

Wilderness

New Hampshire

Great Gulf Wilderness

Pemigewasset Wilderness

Presidential Range-Dry River 

Wilderness

Sandwich Range Wilderness

Wild River Wilderness

New Jersey

Brigantine Wilderness Great Swamp National Wildlife 

Refuge Wilderness

New Mexico

Aldo Leopold Wilderness

Apache Kid Wilderness

Bandelier Wilderness

Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

Blue Range Wilderness

Bosque del Apache Wilderness

Capitan Mountains Wilderness

Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness

Cebolla Wilderness

Chama River Canyon Wilderness

Cruces Basin Wilderness

Dome Wilderness

Gila Wilderness

Latir Peak Wilderness

Manzano Mountain Wilderness

Ojito Wilderness

Pecos Wilderness

Sabinoso Wilderness

Salt Creek Wilderness

San Pedro Parks Wilderness

Sandia Mountain Wilderness

West Malpais Wilderness

Wheeler Peak Wilderness

White Mountain Wilderness

Withington Wilderness

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Final 2013 VGP

New York

Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness

North Carolina

Birkhead Mountains Wilderness

Catfish Lake South Wilderness

Ellicott Rock Wilderness

Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock 

Wilderness

Linville Gorge Wilderness

Middle Prong Wilderness

Pocosin Wilderness

Pond Pine Wilderness

Sheep Ridge Wilderness

Shining Rock Wilderness

Southern Nantahala Wilderness

Swanquarter Wilderness

North Dakota

Chase Lake Wilderness Lostwood Wilderness Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness

Ohio

West Sister Island Wilderness

Oklahoma

Black Fork Mountain Wilderness Upper Kiamichi River Wilderness Wichita Mountains Wilderness

Oregon

Badger Creek Wilderness

Black Canyon Wilderness

Boulder Creek Wilderness

Bridge Creek Wilderness

Bull of the Woods Wilderness

Clackamas Wilderness

Copper Salmon Wilderness

Cummins Creek Wilderness

Diamond Peak Wilderness

Drift Creek Wilderness

Eagle Cap Wilderness

Gearhart Mountain Wilderness

Grassy Knob Wilderness

Hells Canyon Wilderness

Kalmiopsis Wilderness

Lower White River Wilderness

Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness

Menagerie Wilderness

Middle Santiam Wilderness

Mill Creek Wilderness

Monument Rock Wilderness

Mount Hood Wilderness

Mount Jefferson Wilderness

Mount Thielsen Wilderness

Mount Washington Wilderness

Mountain Lakes Wilderness

North Fork John Day Wilderness

North Fork Umatilla Wilderness

Opal Creek Wilderness

Oregon Badlands Wilderness

Oregon Islands Wilderness

Red Buttes Wilderness

Roaring River Wilderness

Rock Creek Wilderness

Rogue-Umpqua Divide 

Wilderness

Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness

Sky Lakes Wilderness

Soda Mountain Wilderness

Spring Basin Wilderness

Steens Mountain Wilderness

Strawberry Mountain Wilderness

Table Rock Wilderness

Three Arch Rocks Wilderness

Three Sisters Wilderness

Waldo Lake Wilderness

Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness

Wild Rogue Wilderness

Pennsylvania

Allegheny Islands Wilderness Hickory Creek Wilderness

Puerto Rico

El Toro Wilderness

South Carolina

Cape Romain Wilderness

Congaree National Park 

Wilderness

Ellicott Rock Wilderness

Hell Hole Bay Wilderness

Little Wambaw Swamp 

Wilderness

Wambaw Creek Wilderness

Wambaw Swamp Wilderness

South Dakota

Badlands Wilderness Black Elk Wilderness

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Tennessee

Bald River Gorge Wilderness

Big Frog Wilderness

Big Laurel Branch Wilderness

Citico Creek Wilderness

Cohutta Wilderness

Gee Creek Wilderness

Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock 

Wilderness

Little Frog Mountain Wilderness

Pond Mountain Wilderness

Sampson Mountain Wilderness

Unaka Mountain Wilderness

Texas

Big Slough Wilderness

Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness

Indian Mounds Wilderness

Little Lake Creek Wilderness

Turkey Hill Wilderness

Upland Island Wilderness

Utah

Ashdown Gorge Wilderness

Beartrap Canyon Wilderness

Beaver Dam Mountains 

Wilderness

Blackridge Wilderness

Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness

Box-Death Hollow Wilderness

Canaan Mountain Wilderness 

Cedar Mountain Wilderness Area

Cottonwood Canyon Wilderness

Cottonwood Forest Wilderness

Cougar Canyon Wilderness

Dark Canyon Wilderness

Deep Creek North Wilderness 

Deep Creek Wilderness

Deseret Peak Wilderness

Doc's Pass Wilderness

Goose Creek Wilderness

High Uintas Wilderness

LaVerkin Creek Wilderness

Lone Peak Wilderness

Mount Naomi Wilderness

Mount Nebo Wilderness

Mount Olympus Wilderness

Mount Timpanogos Wilderness

Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs 

Wilderness

Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness

Red Butte Wilderness

Red Mountain Wilderness

Slaughter Creek Wilderness

Taylor Creek Wilderness

Twin Peaks Wilderness

Wellsville Mountain Wilderness

Zion Wilderness

Vermont

Big Branch Wilderness

Breadloaf Wilderness

Bristol Cliffs Wilderness

George D. Aiken Wilderness

Glastenbury Wilderness

Joseph Battell Wilderness

Lye Brook Wilderness

Peru Peak Wilderness

Virginia

Barbours Creek Wilderness

Beartown Wilderness

Brush Mountain East Wilderness

Brush Mountain Wilderness

Garden Mountain Wilderness

Hunting Camp Creek Wilderness

James River Face Wilderness

Kimberling Creek Wilderness

Lewis Fork Wilderness

Little Dry Run Wilderness

Little Wilson Creek Wilderness

Mountain Lake Wilderness

Peters Mountain Wilderness

Priest Wilderness

Raccoon Branch Wilderness

Ramseys Draft Wilderness

Rich Hole Wilderness

Rough Mountain Wilderness

Saint Mary's Wilderness

Shawvers Run Wilderness

Shenandoah Wilderness

Stone Mountain Wilderness

Three Ridges Wilderness

Thunder Ridge Wilderness

Washington

Alpine Lakes Wilderness

Boulder River Wilderness

Buckhorn Wilderness

Clearwater Wilderness

Colonel Bob Wilderness

Glacier Peak Wilderness

Glacier View Wilderness

Goat Rocks Wilderness

Juniper Dunes Wilderness

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth 

Wilderness

Mount Adams Wilderness

Mount Baker Wilderness

Mount Rainier Wilderness

Mount Skokomish Wilderness

Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness

Salmo-Priest Wilderness

San Juan Wilderness

Stephen Mather Wilderness

Tatoosh Wilderness

The Brothers Wilderness

Trapper Creek Wilderness

Washington Islands Wilderness

Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness

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Henry M. Jackson Wilderness

Indian Heaven Wilderness

Norse Peak Wilderness

Olympic Wilderness

Pasayten Wilderness

Wild Sky Wilderness

William O. Douglas Wilderness

Wonder Mountain Wilderness

West Virginia

Big Draft Wilderness

Cranberry Wilderness

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Laurel Fork North Wilderness

Laurel Fork South Wilderness

Mountain Lake Wilderness

Roaring Plains West Wilderness

Otter Creek Wilderness

Spice Run Wilderness

Wisconsin

Blackjack Springs Wilderness

Gaylord A. Nelson Wilderness

Headwaters Wilderness

Porcupine Lake Wilderness

Rainbow Lake Wilderness

Whisker Lake Wilderness

Wisconsin Islands Wilderness

Wyoming

Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

Bridger Wilderness

Cloud Peak Wilderness

Encampment River Wilderness

Fitzpatrick Wilderness

Gros Ventre Wilderness

Huston Park Wilderness

Jedediah Smith Wilderness

North Absaroka Wilderness

Platte River Wilderness

Popo Agie Wilderness

Savage Run Wilderness

Teton Wilderness

Washakie Wilderness

Winegar Hole Wilderness

G.5 National Wild and Scenic Rivers 

Alagnak, Alaska

Alatna, Alaska

Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine

Allegheny, Pennsylvania

American (Lower), California

Andreafsky, Alaska

Aniakchak, Alaska

Au Sable, Michigan

Bear Creek, Michigan

Beaver Creek, Alaska

Big and Little Darby Creeks, Ohio

Big Marsh Creek, Oregon

Big Piney Creek, Arkansas

Big Sur, California

Birch Creek, Alaska

Black Butte, California

Black Creek, Mississippi

Black, Michigan

Bluestone, West Virginia

Buffalo, Arkansas

Cache la Poudre, Colorado

Carp, Michigan

Charley, Alaska

Chattooga, Georgia, North and South Carolina

Chetco, Oregon

Chilikadrotna, Alaska

Clackamas, Oregon

Clarion, Pennsylvania

Clarks Fork Yellowstone, Wyoming

Cossatot, Arkansas

Crescent Creek, Oregon

Crooked, Oregon

Delaware (Lower), New Jersey & Pennsylvania

Delaware (Middle), New Jersey & Pennsylvania

Delaware (Upper), New York & Pennsylvania

Delta, Alaska

Deschutes, Oregon

Donner und Blitzen, Oregon

Eagle Creek, Oregon

East Branch Tahquamenon, Michigan

East Fork Jemez, New Mexico

Eel, California

Eleven Point, Missouri

Elk, Oregon

Elkhorn Creek, Oregon

Farmington (West Branch), Connecticut

Feather, California

Flathead, Montana

Fortymile, Alaska

Grande Ronde, Oregon

Great Egg Harbor, New Jersey

Gulkana, Alaska

Horsepasture, North Carolina

Hurricane Creek, Arkansas

Illinois, Oregon

Imnaha, Oregon

Indian, Michigan

Ivishak, Alaska

John Day, Oregon

John, Alaska

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Final 2013 VGP

Joseph Creek, Oregon

Kern, California

Kings, California

Klamath, California

Klickitat, Washington

Kobuk, Alaska

Lamprey, New Hampshire

Little Beaver, Ohio

Little Deschutes, Oregon

Little Miami, Ohio

Little Missouri, Arkansas

Lostine, Oregon

Loxahatchee, Florida

Lumber, North Carolina

Malheur, Oregon

Manistee, Michigan

Maurice, New Jersey

McKenzie, Oregon

Merced, California

Metolius, Oregon

Middle Fork Clearwater, Idaho

Middle Fork Salmon, Idaho

Middle Fork Vermilion, Illinois

Minam, Oregon

Missouri, Montana

Mulberry, Arkansas

Mulchatna, Alaska

Musconetcong, New Jersey

New, North Carolina

Niobrara, Nebraska

Noatak, Alaska

North Fork American, California

North Fork Crooked, Oregon

North Fork John Day, Oregon

North Fork Koyukuk, Alaska

North Fork Malheur, Oregon

North Fork Middle Fork Willamette, Oregon

North Fork Owyhee, Oregon

North Fork Smith, Oregon

North Fork Sprague, Oregon

North Powder, Oregon

North Sylamore Creek, Arkansas

North Umpqua, Oregon

Nowitna, Alaska

Obed, Tennessee

Ontonagon, Michigan

Owyhee, Oregon

Paint, Michigan

Pecos, New Mexico

Pere Marquette, Michigan

Pine, Michigan

Powder, Oregon

Presque Isle, Michigan

Quartzville Creek, Oregon

Rapid, Idaho

Red, Kentucky

Richland Creek, Arkansas

Rio Chama, New Mexico

Rio de la Mina, Puerto Rico

Rio Grande, New Mexico

Rio Grande, Texas

Rio Icacos, Puerto Rico

Rio Mameyes, Puerto Rico

Roaring, Oregon

Rogue, Oregon

Saint Joe, Idaho

Saline Bayou, Louisiana

Salmon, Alaska

Salmon, Idaho

Salmon, Oregon

Sandy, Oregon

Selawik, Alaska

Sespe Creek, California

Sheenjek, Alaska

Sipsey Fork West Fork, Alabama

Sisquoc, California

Skagit, Washington

Smith, California

Snake, Idaho & Oregon

South Fork John Day, Oregon

Squaw Creek, Oregon

St. Croix (Lower) Minnesota & Wisconsin

St. Croix (Lower), Minnesota & Wisconsin

St. Croix, Minnesota & Wisconsin

Sturgeon, Michigan (Hiawatha National Forest)

Sturgeon, Michigan (Ottawa National Forest)

Sudbury, Assabet, Concord, Massachusetts

Sycan, Oregon

Tinayguk, Alaska

Tlikakila, Alaska

Trinity, California

Tuolumne, California

Unalakleet, Alaska

Upper Rogue, Oregon

Verde, Arizona

Wallowa, Oregon

Wekiva, Florida

Wenaha, Oregon

West Little Owyhee, Oregon

Westfield, Massachusetts

White Clay Creek, Delaware & Pennsylvania

White Salmon, Washington

White, Oregon

Whitefish, Michigan

Wildcat River, New Hampshire

Wildhorse and Kiger Creeks, Oregon

Wilson Creek, North Carolina

Wind, Alaska

Wolf, Wisconsin

Yellow Dog, Michigan

Page 179 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

G.6 Outstanding National Resource Water (ONRW) Designated by a State or 

Tribe

States have an obligation under the antidegradation policy of the CWA to ensure that 

water quality is maintained and protected where "high quality waters constitute an 

outstanding national resource, such as water of national and state parks and wildlife 

refuges and waters of exceptional recreational or ecological significance." 40 CFR 

§131.12(a)(3). 

Water Resources Boards may designate certain waters, including wetlands, as 

outstanding under state and federal law. When waters are designated, their existing water 

quality shall, at a minimum, be protected and maintained. Because ONRWs are 

designated by each state, permittees should consult state water quality management 

agencies to determine if ONRWs exist in the area where they may operate their vessel.

Page 180 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Appendix H – Annual Report

EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

Washington, DC 20460 Form Approved OMB No. 

One Time Report for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation 2040-0004

Of a Vessel under the NPDES Vessel General Permit

Owner/Operator and Vessel Information

Date Submitted ___________________ Vessel NOI Number (if applicable) _________

Vessel Owner/Operator ___________________________ Phone___________________________ 

Address________________________________________ E-mail___________________________ 

Vessel Name ____________________________________ Vessel Type ______________________ 

Length _____________________FEET/METERS (Circle One) Gross Tonnage __________□ gross tons □ gross 

registered tons

Date of Vessel Construction ________________________ 

Calendar Year for which you are submitting the report: _____ 

Did your vessel operate in waters subject to this permit during the previous calendar year: □ Yes □ No

If you answered No to this question, completion of the remainder the following questions are 

voluntary; however you must certify the bottom of the report. 

Questions

1. Please list your vessel’s primary geographical regions of operation in U.S. waters last year and 

report the approximate percentage of time was your vessel in each region?

□ Gulf Coast ___ □ Pacific Coast ___ □ Atlantic Coast ___ □ Mississippi-Ohio River System 

___ □ Great Lakes ___ □ Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands □ Other: _________ 

2a. Did you conduct the following inspections in the last year? (Optional for inland vessels less than 

300GT and unmanned, unpowered barges) 

 Drydock Inspections □ Yes □No Most recent drydock and inspection date: _________ 

 Next scheduled drydocking: _________ 

 Annual Inspections □ Yes □ No Most recent inspection date: _________ 

 All Required Routine Inspections □ Yes □No 

 If you checked no, how many routine inspections did you miss in the last year? 

 □ 1-2 □3-4 □5-6 □7 or more

 Last below water (or drydock) hull inspection: _________ 

2b. On average, how often did you conduct routine inspections in the last year? 

□ Never □Once per week □Between once per week and once per day □Once per day □More 

than once per day □Other: ________________ 

3a. Did your vessel discharge ballast water in U.S. waters? □ Yes □No 

What is the capacity of your vessel’s ballast tanks? _____________□ gallons □ meters3

How many ballast tanks are present on your vessel (include holds or other areas that were used to 

carry ballast water)? ___________ 

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Final 2013 VGP

For each tank or hold used to carry ballast, list type, capacity, and identifier: _________

Does your vessel have a ballast water treatment system? □ Yes □No □ N/A

 If you answered yes, please attach analytical monitoring data for treated ballast water discharges 

required by Parts 2.2.3.5.1.1 of the permit (see VGP Ballast Water DMR below). 

Did you operate outside the EEZ and enter the Great Lakes? □ Yes □No □ N/A

If yes, did you discharge ballast water? □ Yes □No □ N/A

If yes, did you conduct ballast water exchange and/or flushing as applicable? □ Yes □No □ N/A

3b. Does your vessel have an exhaust gas scrubber? □ Yes □No 

Did your vessel discharge washwater from its exhaust gas scrubber in U.S. waters? □ Yes □No □

N/A

 If you answered yes, please attach analytical monitoring data for exhaust gas scrubber washwater 

(see VGP Exhaust Gas Scrubber DMR below)

 Discharge required by Part 2.2.26 of the permit.

3c. Does your vessel have an oily water separator (OWS)? □ Yes □No

If your vessel is greater than 400 GT did it discharge treated bilgewater within 1 nm of shore? □ Yes 

□No □ N/A Did you ever discharge into waters subject to this permit (within 3 nm)? □ Yes □No □ 

N/A

If you discharged within 1 nm, why did you discharge? 

□ Never left waters subject to this permit, but the discharge met a 15 ppm standard. □ Technically 

infeasible or unsafe to hold (if checked, please attach explanation as to why it was technically 

infeasible or unsafe to hold). 

If you discharged within three nautical miles, did you collect analytical oil and grease monitoring 

data? □ Yes □ No □ No, I qualified for the analytical monitoring waivers found in Part 2.2.2.1 of the 

permit (not available in the first two years of permit coverage).

 If you answered yes, please attach analytical monitoring data for bilgewater sampling (see VGP 

Bilgewater DMR below)

3d. Did you discharge treated or untreated graywater in U.S. waters? □ Treated □Untreated □None

Does your vessel have and use a treatment system for graywater or graywater mixed with sewage? □ 

Yes □No □ N/A

If yes, please list the system make and model: __________ 

 Is your vessel subject to analytical monitoring requirements in Parts 2.2.15, 5.1, or 5.2 □ Yes □ 

No. If yes, please attach analytical monitoring data for treated graywater discharges (see VGP 

Graywater DMR below). 

3e. Do you use anti-foulant coating? Yes □No □ N/A

If so, what is the type of anti-fouling hull coating on vessel and select specific product? 

Date last applied: _________

4. Did your vessel store any discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels on board for 

onshore disposal? 

□ Yes (please list) __________________________________________________ □No

If yes, please list disposal method (e.g., onshore treatment, pump out truck)________

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Final 2013 VGP

5. Did your vessel use environmentally acceptable lubricants for oil to sea interfaces?

□ Yes (please name the brand(s)) __________________________ □No

If not, why? ________________

6. Did you have to claim a safety exemption for any discharge category, and were therefore unable to 

meet effluent limits of the VGP?

□ Yes (please list discharge types) ____________________________________ □No

If yes, reason(s) safety exemptions claimed? ____________________________

7. Did you receive any citations or warnings from EPA or the U.S. Coast Guard for any violations of 

environmental laws? If yes, please scan and attach.

□ Yes (explain) _____________________________________________________________________ 

__________________________________________________________________________________ 

□No

8. Did you have any instances of noncompliance this year (e.g., discharging untreated bilgewater, 

exceeding numeric effluent limits)?

□ Yes □No

If you answered yes, please fill out the table below. Please attach additional pages as necessary.

Date VGP Requirement 

Affected

Description of 

Noncompliance 

Cause of 

Noncompliance

Description of 

Corrective Action 

Performed or 

Scheduled

Certification Information

I certify under penalty of law that the information contained in this form is, to the best of my 

knowledge and belief, true, accurate and complete. Furthermore, I certify under penalty of law that 

this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance 

with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the 

information contained therein. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, 

or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information contained is, to the 

best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I have no personal knowledge that the 

information submitted is other than true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant 

penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for 

knowing violations. 

__________________________________ 

Signature and Date

Page 183 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Annual Report: Ballast Water Treatment System Reporting

Supplemental Addendum (VGP Ballast Water DMR)

A. Ballast Water Treatment System Information Facility Identifier (i.e., NOI number): ______________

Treatment system description: ___________________________________________________________________

System supplier and model:_____________________________________________________________________ 

Installation Date: _______________________ 

First date of operation: _______________________ 

Technology type (check all that apply):

 Akylamines

 Bioremediation

 Cavitation

 Chlorine addition/electrochlorination

 Chlorine dioxide

 Coagulation

 Other (specify): _______________________ 

 Deoxygenation

 Electric pulse

 Filtration

 Heat

 Hydrocyclone

 Menadione/Vitamin K

 Ozone

 Peracetic acid

 Plasma pulse

 Shear

 Ultrasound

 Ultraviolet

Is the ballast water treatment system type approved?

If you answered “Yes” please provide the flag administration(s) that approved that 

system?

Yes No

___________________________

Are all type approval data available to US EPA or the US Coast Guard (see Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.1 of 

this permit)? 

Has the system been determined by the US Coast Guard to be an “Alternate Management System?” 

Note: if you responded “unknown” to the two questions above, you must follow the monitoring 

schedule for devices for which high quality data are not available. 

Yes

Yes

No

No

Unknown

Unknown

B. Monitoring Information

Have all the permit monitoring conditions for the ballast water treatment system(s) that apply to 

your vessel (Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.1 of this permit) been completed during the previous calendar year?

Yes No

Please check which monitoring requirements were completed: 

 Ballast water system functionality monitoring at least monthly.

 Calibration of probes/sensors that measure ballast water treatment performance at least annually.

 Biological monitoring. Number of sampling events: ___

 Residual biocide and derivative monitoring (if applicable). Number of initial: ___ Number of maintenance: ___

Provide ballast water treatment system functional monitoring information and ballast discharge analytical data for the 

previous calendar year in the attached tables. Provide any correlations and/or calculations between measured operating 

parameters and treatment concentrations in the space below (e.g., correlation between measured ORP and chlorine 

concentration in ballast water): 

C. Certifier Name and Title

I certify under penalty of law that this document were prepared under my direction or supervision in accordance with a 

system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the information contained therein. Based

on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the 

information, the information contained is, to the best of my knowledge and belief true, accurate, and complete. I have no 

personnel knowledge that the information submitted is other than true, accurate and complete. I am aware that there are 

significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing 

violations.

Print Name:_____________________________________________________

Title:__________________________________________________________

Signature:______________________________________________________

Email:_________________________________________________________

Page 184 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Ballast Water Treatment System Functionality Monitoring (provide information for each month for all that apply; attach pages as needed) 

Parameter Used to Measure 

System Functionalitya

Unitsb Measurement 

Methodc

Monthd Number of 

Measurements 

per Monthe

Minimum 

Monthly 

Measured 

Value

Average 

Monthly 

Measured 

Value

Maximum 

Monthly 

Measured 

Value

System Design 

Operating 

Range

a. Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.2 and Appendix J of the permit describes the types of measurements required to verify system functionality (e.g., chlorine concentration, ORP, ozone concentration, etc.). 

b. Units include items such as mg/L or ppm for chemical concentrations, lbs or gallons/month for chemical dosage amounts, watts/month for power consumption, etc.

c. Measurement methods can include probe, sensor, sample analysis, counts, etc. 

d. Vessels need to provide information for only those months that ballast water was discharged into U.S. waters.

e. If continuous measurements are recorded for the parameter, note “continuous” in the provided column.

Biological Monitoring of Ballast Water Discharges (provide information for each sampling event for all that apply; attach pages as needed) 

Parameter Analytical Method Sample Date(s)a Sample Result(s)a Units Discharge 

Location

 Total live bacteria

 E. coli

 Enterococci

 Other (specify):

a. Part 2.2.3.5.1.1.4 of the permit provides the required sampling schedule. If you collected multiple samples during the calendar year, 

list the samples and corresponding results in order of date collected.

Residual Biocide/Derivative Monitoring of Ballast Water Discharges (provide information for each sampling event for all that apply; attach pages as needed) 

Biocide/Derivativea Analytical Method Sample Date(s)b Sample Result(s)b Units Discharge 

Location

a. Section 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 of the permit lists biocides and derivatives the vessel must monitor for based on the type of

treatment system (e.g., chlorine, haloacetic acid, trihalomethanes). You must report those results here.

b. Section 2.2.3.5.1.1.5 provides the required sampling schedule. If you collected multiple samples during the calendar year,

list the samples and corresponding results in order of date collected. 

Page 185 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Annual Report: Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge Monitoring Supplemental Addendum

(VGP Exhaust Gas Scrubber Discharge Monitoring Report)

Exhaust Gas Scrubber Analytical Monitoring (provide information for all that apply)

Sample Date: ____________ Sample Type (inlet water, water after the scrubber, discharge water): _______________ Facility Identifier (i.e., NOI number): ______________

Sample #: (Please provide a separate page for each sampling event) 

Parameter

Analytical 

Methoda

Sample Date(s)b 

(MM/DD/YYYY) Sample Result(s) Units Flow Rate

Discharge 

Location

(Lat/Long)c

Was the Sample 

Taken in U.S. 

Waters?

Nitrate-Nitrite

pH

Arsenic

Cadmium

Chromium

Copper 

Lead

Nickel

Selenium

Vanadium

Zinc

Acenaphthylene

Acenaphthene

Anthracene 

Benz[a]anthracene

Benzo[ghi]perylene

Benzo[a]pyrene

Benzo[b]fluoranthene + 

benzo[k]fluoranthene

Chrysene

Dibenz[a,h]anthracene

Fluoranthene

Fluorene

Indeno[1,2,3,c,d]pyrene

Naphthalene

Phenanthrene

Pyrene

Additional Detail:

pH Probe Value (at same time sample collected): 

PAH Probe Value (at same time sample collected): 

Turbidity Probe Value (at same time sample collected): 

Maximum continuous rating or 80 percent of the power rating of the fuel oil combustion unit in MWh: 

Sampling performed downstream of the water treatment equipment but upstream of washwater dilution (or other reactant dosing) prior to discharge? □ Yes 

□No

a) Part 2.2.26.2.3 of the permit discusses appropriate methods for monitoring. Please select methods that correct for matrix interference.

b) Part 2.2.26.2.2 of the permit provides the required sampling schedule. If you collected multiple samples during the calendar year, list the samples and corresponding results 

in order of date collected.

c) Provide latitude and longitude of discharge location during sampling.

Page 186 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Exhaust Gas Scrubber Continuous Monitoring (provide information for all that apply)

Month: _____ _ (Please provide a separate page for each month of the discharge)

Parameter Unitsa

Minimum Monthly 

Measured Value

Average Monthly 

Measured Value

Maximum Monthly 

Measured Value

Did You Operate in US 

Waters this Month?

pH Standard Units

PAH (if available) μ/L PAHphe

Turbidity

Temperature

Additional Details: 

pH probe calibration date: 

PAH probe calibration date (if available): 

Turbidity probe calibration date: 

Temperature probe calibration date: 

Maximum continuous rating or 80 percent of the power rating of the fuel oil combustion unit in MWh: 

Sampling performed downstream of the water treatment equipment but upstream of washwater dilution (or other reactant dosing) prior to discharge? Yes No 

Exhaust gas scrubber treatment system additives (names of any additives and dosage (if available) used, i.e., coagulant, flocculant, reaction water): 

a. Units for turbidity are either FNU or NTU, and units for temperature are either °C or °F.

Page 187 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Annual Report: Graywater Discharge Monitoring Supplemental Addendum

(VGP Graywater Discharge Monitoring Report)

Graywater Monitoring (provide information for all that apply)

My vessel had to conduct sampling times in year Facility Identifier (i.e., NOI number): ______________

Sample #: (Please provide a separate form for each sampling event)

Parameter

Analytical 

Methoda

Sample Date(s)b

(MM/DD/YYYY)

Sample 

Time

Sample 

Result(s) Units

Discharge 

Locationc

(Lat/Long)

Overboard 

Discharge Port 

Locationc

Analysis Date/ 

Analystd

(MM/DD/YYYY)

Was the 

Sample Taken 

in U.S. Waters?

pH

BOD

Fecal coliform

Suspended Solids

Total Residual chlorinee

E. colif

Total phosphorus(TP)f

Ammoniaf

Nitrate + Nitritef

Total Kjeldahl 

Nitrogen (TKN)f

a. Part 2.2.15.2, 5.1.2 and 5.2.2 of the permit discusses appropriate methods for monitoring.

b. Part 2.2.15.2, 5.1.2 and 5.2.2 of the permit provides the required sampling schedule.

c. Provide latitude and longitude of discharge location during sampling and the sampled overboard discharge port location

d. Provide both the name of analyst and analysis date in MM/DD/YYYY format.

e. Parameter not required for medium and large cruise ships meeting certain criteria per Parts 5.1.2.2.1 and 5.2.2.2.1.

f. Parameter must be analyzed only by medium and large cruise ships.

Page 188 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Annual Report: Bilgewater Discharge Monitoring Supplemental Addendum

(VGP Bilgewater Discharge Monitoring Report)

Bilgewater Monitoring (provide information for all that apply)

Sample #: (Please provide a separate form for each sampling event) Facility Identifier (i.e., NOI number): ______________

Parameter

Analytical 

Methoda

Sample Date(s)

(MM/DD/YYYY) Sample Time

Sample 

Result(s) Units

Discharge 

Locationb

Overboard 

Discharge Port 

Locationb

Analysis Date/ 

Analyst Namec

(MM/DD/YYYY)

Was the 

Sample 

Taken in 

U.S. 

Waters?

Oil and Grease ppm

Additional Details: 

OCM Value (at same time sample collected) 

OCM Make and Model Number 

OMC calibration date and name of calibrator 

Oil/water separator additive type (name of any additives used, i.e, solidifier, flocculant): 

a. Part 2.2.2.1 of the permit discusses monitoring methods. Samples must be analyzed for oil by either Method ISO 9377-2 (2000) Water Quality–Determination of hydrocarbon 

oil index–Part 2: Method Using Solvent Extraction and Gas Chromatography (incorporation by reference, see 46 CFR §162.050–4) or EPA Method 1664. 

b. Provide latitude and longitude of discharge location during sampling and the sampled overboard discharge port location

c. Provide both the name of analyst and analysis date in MM/DD/YYYY format.

Page 189 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Appendix I – Standard Discharge Monitoring Report

EPA’s Standard Discharge Monitoring Report is available at:

http://www.epa.gov/compliance/resources/publications/data/systems/icis/quickreference/icisdmr-overview-and-form.pdf

Page 190 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Appendix J – Ballast Water Treatment System Sensors, Measurement Requirements and Appropriate 

Equipment for Physical/Chemical Indicator Monitoring

Technology Type Measurement Potential Control Sensor, 

Equipment, or Procedure

Non Discharge Indicators of 

BWTS Performance

Required Metrics to be 

Reported

Alkylamines Alkylamines Chemical analysis and treatment 

monitoring

-Alkylamines concentration at 

injection

-Alkylamines dosage and usage

-Alkylamines sample 

concentration 

-Alkylamines dosage and 

usage

pH pH sensor pH pH readings

Biological agents Treatment chemical Chemical analysis and treatment 

monitoring

-Treatment chemical 

concentration at injection

-Treatment chemical dosage 

and usage

-Treatment chemical sample 

concentration

-Treatment chemical dosage 

and usage

Cavitation Pressure differential Pressure sensors (before/after) Pressure differential Pressure readings

Chlorination: (e.g., sodium 

chlorite and sodium 

hypochlorite

Chlorine In-line N,N diethyl-p-phenylene

diamine (DPD) analyzer, sample 

analysis, and treatment 

monitoring

-Chlorine concentration at 

injection

-Chlorine dosage on treatment 

and usage (if chlorine 

addition)

-Chlorine readings from both 

on-line sensor and sample 

analysis

-Chlorine dosage on 

treatment (if chlorine 

addition)

Oxidation reduction 

potential (ORP)

ORP sensor ORP at injection ORP readings

Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Chlorination module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current (if electrochlorination)

No Reporting Required

Total residual oxidizers 

(TRO)

Amperometric sensor TRO at injection TRO readings

Conductivity/salinity Conductivity and temperature 

sensor

Conductivity and temperature 

at injection

Conductivity/salinity and 

temperature readings

Chlorine Dioxide Chlorine Dioxide On-line chlorine dioxide 

amperometric sensor, Lissamine 

Green B (LGB) sample analysis, 

and treatment monitoring

-Chlorine dioxide concentration 

at injection

- Chlorine dioxide dosage and 

usage (if chlorine dioxide

addition)

-Chlorine dioxide readings 

from both on-line sensor and 

sample analysis

- Chlorine dioxide dosage and 

usage (if chlorine dioxide 

addition)

Page 191 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Coagulation (flocculent) Coagulant Chemical analysis and treatment 

monitoring

-Treatment flocculent 

concentration at injection

-Treatment chemical dosage 

and usage

- Treatment flocculent 

concentration

-Treatment chemical dosage 

and usage

Turbidity (NTU) Turbidity sensor Coagulation effluent turbidity Coagulation effluent 

turbidities

Deoxygenation Dose of inert gas (if 

used)

Treatment monitoring Deoxygenation gas dosage and 

usage

Deoxygenation gas dosage 

and usage

pH (if CO2 used) pH sensor pH pH readings

Dissolved oxygen (DO) DO sensor Deoxygenation module 

dissolved oxygen concentration

Dissolved oxygen 

concentrations

Electric pulse Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Electric pulse module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Electric pulse module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current readings

Filtration Flow rate Flow meter Filter effluent flow Flow readings

Pressure differential Pressure sensors (before/after) Filter pressure differential (e.g., 

before/after filtration)

Filter pressures (before/after)

Back flush frequency Treatment monitoring Filter backwash frequency Filter backwash frequencies

Heat Temperature Thermistors Treatment temperature Temperature readings

Hydrocyclone Back flush frequency Treatment monitoring Hydrocyclone back flush 

frequency

Hydrocyclone back flush 

frequencies

Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Hydrocyclone power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Hydrocyclone power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Menadione/Vitamin K Menadione/Vitamin K Chemical analysis and treatment 

monitoring

-Menadione/Vitamin K 

concentration at injection

-Menadione/Vitamin K dosage 

and usage

-Menadione/Vitamin K 

concentration at injection

-Menadione/Vitamin K dosage 

and usage

Ozone TRO Amperometric sensor TRO at ozone injection TRO readings

Ozone On-line ozone sensor (if used) 

and sample analysis

Ozone concentration at 

injection

Ozone readings from both online sensor (if used) and 

sample analysis

Bromate Sample analysis Bromate at ozone injection Bromate measurements

Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Ozonation module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

No Reporting Required

Conductivity/salinity Conductivity and temperature 

sensor

Conductivity and temperature 

at injection

Conductivity/salinity and 

temperature readings

Peracetic acid Hydrogen peroxide On-line sensor, chemical -Hydrogen peroxide -Hydrogen peroxide readings 

Page 192 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

analysis, treatment monitoring concentration at injection

-Hydrogen peroxide dosage 

and usage

from both on-line sensor and 

sample analysis

-Hydrogen peroxide dosage 

and usage

Peracetic acid On-line sensor, chemical 

analysis, treatment monitoring

-Peracetic acid concentration at 

injection

-Peracetic acid dosage and 

usage

-Peracetic acid readings from 

both on-line sensor and 

sample analysis

-Peracetic acid dosage and 

usage

pH pH sensor pH at injection pH readings

Plasma pulse Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Plasma pulse module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Plasma pulse module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current readings

Temperature Thermistors Treatment temperature Temperature readings

Shear Pressure differential Pressure sensors (before/after) Pressure differential Pressure readings

Ultrasound Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics Ultrasound power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Ultrasound module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current readings

UV and UV+TiO2 Power consumption, 

voltage and current

System power diagnostics UV module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

UV module power 

consumption, voltage and 

current

Lamp status and age Treatment monitoring UV lamp status and age No Reporting Required

UV dose, intensity, 

transmittance

UV sensors and monitors UV dose, intensity, 

transmittance

UV dose, intensity, 

transmittance

Flow rate Flow meter UV effluent flow Flow readings

Page 193 of 194
Final 2013 VGP

Appendix K – Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection Form (PARI) 

(for vessels which need not complete NOIs)

VGP Authorization and Record of Inspection (PARI) Form 

I. Vessel Owner/Operator Information

Vessel Owner/Operator ____________________________ Phone ________________________

Address and Email Address: ________________________________________________________

II. Vessel Information

Vessel Name _____________________________ Vessel Type ___________________

Vessel Identifier ___________________________ □ Registered number/operating number □ IMO number

III. Owner/Operator Acknowledgement

By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have read and am familiar with the VGP and that I am 

implementing all permit requirements contained in the VGP.

IV. Certification Information

I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or 

supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and 

evaluated the information contained therein. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the 

system, or those persons directly responsible for gathering the information, the information contained is, to the 

best of my knowledge and belief, true, accurate, and complete. I have no personal knowledge that the 

information submitted is other than true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties 

for submitting false information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment for knowing violations. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

V. Annual Inspections by Year

A. 2014

I certify that I have completed an annual inspection for 2014 in accordance with Part 4.1.3 of the VGP. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

B. 2015

I certify that I have completed an annual inspection for 2015 in accordance with Part 4.1.3 of the VGP. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

C. 2016

I certify that I have completed an annual inspection for 2016 in accordance with Part 4.1.3 of the VGP. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

D. 2017

I certify that I have completed an annual inspection for 2017 in accordance with Part 4.1.3 of the VGP. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

E. 2018

I certify that I have completed an annual inspection for 2018 in accordance with Part 4.1.3 of the VGP. 

_________________________________

Signature and Date

Page 194 of 194