Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 1 of 53

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

SMALL VESSEL GENERAL PERMIT FOR DISCHARGES 

INCIDENTAL TO THE NORMAL OPERATION OF 

VESSELS LESS THAN 79 FEET (sVGP)

AUTHORIZATION TO DISCHARGE UNDER THE

NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM

In compliance with the provisions of the Clean Water Act, as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251 et 

seq.), the owner or operator of any non-recreational, non-military vessel less than 79 feet in 

length that is operating in a capacity as a means of transportation, and is eligible for permit 

coverage under Part 1 of this permit, is authorized to discharge into waters subject to this permit 

in accordance with the requirements set forth in this permit.

Required best management practices are found in Part 2. Additional requirements applicable 

to all dischargers covered under this permit are set forth in Parts 3 through 6 of this permit. State 

and tribe-specific requirements are included in Part 7. Applicable forms are in the Appendices.

This permit becomes effective on December 19, 2014.

This permit and the authorization to discharge expire at midnight 11:59 p.m. on December 

1819, 2019.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for interagency review.)

Page 2 of 53

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. PERMIT COVERAGE......................................................................................................................................4

ELIGIBLE VESSELS ...........................................................................................................................................4

WATERS COVERED/GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE .........................................................................................................4

OBTAINING COVERAGE UNDER THIS PERMIT...................................................................................................4

VESSEL DISCHARGES ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE.............................................................................................4

VESSEL DISCHARGES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE......................................................................................5

2. EFFLUENT LIMITS AND RELATED REQUIREMENTS..........................................................................6

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ...............................................................................................................................6

FUEL MANAGEMENT........................................................................................................................................7

ENGINE AND OIL CONTROL..............................................................................................................................7

SOLID AND LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT ......................................................................................................8

DECK WASHDOWN AND RUNOFF AND ABOVE WATER LINE HULL CLEANING ................................................9

VESSEL HULL MAINTENANCE..........................................................................................................................9

GRAYWATER..............................................................................................................................................1110

FISH HOLD EFFLUENT....................................................................................................................................11

BALLAST WATER ...........................................................................................................................................12

OVERBOARD COOLING WATER DISCHARGE ..............................................................................................1312

COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STATUTES AND REGULATIONS ............................................................................13

3. MONITORING AND RECORDKEEPING..................................................................................................13

RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS..................................................................................................................13

QUARTERLY VISUAL INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................14

4. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS............................................................................................................1514

CONTINUATION OF THIS PERMIT ................................................................................................................1514

ALTERNATIVE PERMITS .................................................................................................................................15

PERMIT COMPLIANCE.................................................................................................................................1615

DUTY TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................16

INSPECTION AND ENTRY ............................................................................................................................1716

PROPERTY RIGHTS .....................................................................................................................................1716

SEVERABILITY ...............................................................................................................................................17

STATE LAWS ..................................................................................................................................................17

FEDERAL LAWS..............................................................................................................................................17

STANDARD PERMIT CONDITIONS ...................................................................................................................17

WATER-QUALITY-BASED EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS ....................................................................................1817

GENERAL PROVISIONS ...................................................................................................................................19

5. DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................................20

6. EPA REGIONAL CONTACTS......................................................................................................................25

7. STATE AND TRIBE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................26

ALASKA .........................................................................................................................................................26

ARIZONA........................................................................................................................................................27

ARKANSAS .....................................................................................................................................................27

BAD RIVER BAND OF LAKE SUPERIOR TRIBE OF CHIPPEWA INDIANS ............................................................28

CALIFORNIA...................................................................................................................................................29

CONNECTICUT................................................................................................................................................31

GEORGIA........................................................................................................................................................33

HAWAII ..........................................................................................................................................................33

IDAHO ............................................................................................................................................................36

ILLINOIS .........................................................................................................................................................39
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 3 of 53

INDIANA.........................................................................................................................................................40

IOWA..............................................................................................................................................................41

KANSAS .........................................................................................................................................................41

MAINE............................................................................................................................................................42

MICHIGAN......................................................................................................................................................42

MINNESOTA ...................................................................................................................................................43

MISSOURI.......................................................................................................................................................43

NEBRASKA .....................................................................................................................................................43

NEW HAMPSHIRE ...........................................................................................................................................44

NORTH CAROLINA .........................................................................................................................................45

OKLAHOMA....................................................................................................................................................46

VERMONT ......................................................................................................................................................46

WASHINGTON ................................................................................................................................................47

WISCONSIN ....................................................................................................................................................48

APPENDIX A -PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND RECORD OF INSPECTION (PARI) FORM ................51

APPENDIX B – ANNUAL NONCOMPLIANCE FORM .....................................................................................53
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 4 of 53

1. PERMIT COVERAGE

ELIGIBLE VESSELS

All non-recreational, non-military vessels less than 79 feet (24.08 meters) in length that are 

operating in a capacity as a means of transportation are eligible for coverage under this permit.

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.

Recreational vessels, as defined by the Clean Boating Act (which amends the Clean Water 

Act), and reiterated in Part 5 (Definitions) of this permit, are not required to obtain an NPDES 

permit for discharges incidental to the normal operation of their vessels, and therefore, are not 

subject to this permit. Instead, discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel, if the 

vessel is a recreational vessel, will become subject to management practices after regulations are 

finalized establishing those practices. See 33 U.S.C. 1322(o).

The Clean Water Act section 502(25) defines a recreational vessel as any vessel that is either 

(1) manufactured or used primarily for pleasure, or (2) leased, rented, or chartered to a person for 

the pleasure of that person. The term recreational vessel does not include a vessel that is both 

subject to Coast Guard inspection and either (1) is engaged in commercial use or (2) carries 

paying passengers. Please see the Fact Sheet accompanying this permit for illustrative examples 

of vessels that are considered recreational vessels and therefore do not need NPDES permit 

coverage.

WATERS COVERED/GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE

This permit is applicable to discharges from vessels identified in Part 1.1 of this permit into 

“waters subject to this permit,” which are “waters of the United States” as defined in 40 Code of 

Federal Regulations (CFR) § 122.2. Waters subject to this permit extend to the outer reach of the 

3 mile territorial sea as defined in section 502(8) of the Clean Water Act (CWA), and include all 

navigable waters of the Great Lakes subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.

OBTAINING COVERAGE UNDER THIS PERMIT

Vessel owner/operators must complete the Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection 

Form (PARI) available in Appendix A and retain it onboard their vessel. Completion of this form 

provides written certification that the vessel owner/operator has read and understood the terms of 

the permit. Part V of the PARI form provides written certification that the vessel owner/operator 

has conducted the required quarterly visual inspections found in Part 3 of this permit.

All vessels eligible for coverage will receive coverage starting on December 19, 2014, 

provided you have signed the PARI Form and maintain a copy onboard your vessel.

VESSEL DISCHARGES ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE

Discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel, when operating in the capacity as a 

means of transportation, are covered unless they are listed in Part 1.5 of this permit. Discharges 

incidental to the normal operation of a vessel include, but are not limited to, anti-foulant hull 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 5 of 53

coating leachate, bilgewater, ballast water, deck runoff, fish hold effluent, graywater, noncontact engine cooling water, packing gland effluent, and underwater hull husbandry. For the 

purposes of this permit, not all vessel discharges are considered incidental to normal operation of 

a vessel (e.g., industrial discharges).

VESSEL DISCHARGES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR COVERAGE

The following types of discharges are not authorized under this permit:

(a) Vessel Discharges not Incidental to the Normal Operation of the Vessel

Discharges that are not incidental to the normal operation of a vessel for a vessel operating in 

a capacity as a means of transportation. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Discharges when the vessel is operating in a capacity other than as a means of 

transportation such as when used as an energy or mining facility, a storage facility or 

seafood processing facility, or when secured to the bed of the ocean, contiguous zone or 

waters of the United States for purpose of mineral or oil exploration or development,

2. Medical waste as defined in 33 § U.S.C. 1362(20), and 

3. Noxious liquid substance residues subject to 33 CFR Part 151, Subpart A.

(b) Sewage from Vessels

Sewage from vessels, as defined in 40 CFR § 122.2 and in Part 5 (Definitions) of this permit, 

does not require an NPDES permit. Instead, sewage from vessels is regulated under section 

312 of the CWA, 40 CFR Part 140 and 33 CFR Part 159.

(c) Used or Spent Oil

Discharges of used or spent oil no longer being used for their intended purposes. 

(d) Garbage or Trash

Discharges of rubbish, trash, garbage, or other such materials overboard. 

(e) Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene) and Trichlorethylene (TCE) Degreasers and Other 

Products

Discharges of tetrachloroethylene and trichlorethylene (TCE) degreasers or other products 

containing tetrachloroethylene or TCE.

(f) Discharges Currently or Previously Covered by Another NPDES Permit

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

permit or another NPDES general permit, unless those discharges were covered by EPA’s 

December 2008 Vessel General Permit, or unless EPA provides written authorization for 

coverage to be obtained for such discharges under this permit.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 6 of 53

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 state permitting authorities (this does not 

apply to the routine reissuance of permits every five years), unless EPA provides written 

authorization for coverage to be obtained for such discharges under this permit.

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

(BMPs)) that are technologically available and economically practicable and achievable in light 

of best marine practice.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

For all discharges, as applicable, yYou must:

(a) Minimize the potential for pollutants to accidentally enter the effluent, including spills.

(b) Not discharge garbage in the effluent.

(c) Not use any dispersants, cleaners, chemicals, or other materials or emulsifiers that would 

remove the appearance of a visible sheen in the discharge.

1

(d) Minimize the discharge of constituents of concern or pollutants, such as foam or floating 

solids.

(e) Not discharge oil, including any oily mixture, in quantities that may be harmful or cause 

a visible sheen.

(f) Minimize the discharge of antifreeze. For vessel engines that have been winterized, 

minimization can be achieved by draining antifreeze from the engine prior to startup or 

capturing antifreeze when discharged from the engine upon startup. The discharge of 

antifreeze with toxic or known carcinogenic additives, such as ethylene glycol and 

methanol, is prohibited. Not discharge antifreeze with toxic or known carcinogenic 

additives, such as ethylene glycol and methanol. Minimize the discharge of all other 

antifreeze, such as antifreeze containing propylene glycol. For vessel engines that have 

been winterized, minimizing the discharge includes capturing antifreeze drained from the 

engine.

(g) When feasible, perform major cleaning, maintenance, and repair jobs while the vessel is 

out of the water or in drydock.

(h) Use only minimally-toxic, phosphate-free, and biodegradable soaps, detergents or 

cleaners. Phosphate-free soap contains by weight 0.5% or less of phosphates or 

derivatives of phosphates.

 

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.”
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 7 of 53

(i) Immediately report any spill of oil or other harmful chemicals that are discharged in a 

quantity that may be harmful or cause a visible sheen as established under 40 CFR Part

110, 40 CFR Part 117, or 40 CFR Part 302, to the National Response Center at 1-800-

424-8802. The National Response Center can also be contacted through their website at: 

www.nrc.uscg.mil.

(j) Not add any pollutant to any discharge that is not incidental to the normal operation of a 

vessel to any discharge.

(k) While the vessel engine is operating, frequently check the area around and behind the 

vessel to ensure that no visible sheen, dust, chemicals, or discoloration is originating from 

the vessel.

FUEL MANAGEMENT

You must:

(a) For all motorized vessels constructed on or after December 19, 2014, use a functioning

fuel-air separator or a fuel tank vent to prevent a fuel spill.

(b) Prevent overfilling, and not top off fuel tanks for example, by not topping off your fuel 

tanks in a way that causes spillage.

(c) For motorized vessels, if the vessel does not have a functioning fuel-air separator or a 

fuel tank vent, use an oil absorbent material or other appropriate device while fueling the 

vessel to prevent any fuel or oil from entering waters subject to this permit.

(d) Regularly inspect the fuel and hydraulic systems for any damage or leaks, e.g., when 

fueling and/or performing routine maintenance, and if needed, repair or replace damaged 

parts as soon as possible.

(e) Unless impracticable, fill portable fuel tanks onshore, instead of on the dock or on the

vessel.

ENGINE AND OIL CONTROL

You must:

(a) Periodically inspect the engine at least once per quarter for any loose or leaking hoses, 

gaskets, and/or seals and if needed, repair or replace damaged parts as soon as possible. 

(b) Place oil absorbent material or other spill response equipment under the vessel engine or 

use other preventative practices to minimize oil entering the bilgewater.

(c) Clean up any spill or overflow of oil or other engine fluids immediately. Keep a supply of 

absorbent pads, pillows, or other materials onboard as appropriate for use in containing or 

remediating any such spills or overflows, and check supplies quarterly and restock as 

necessary.

(d) Dispose of used oil-absorbent materials onshore consistent with applicable solid waste 

regulations (e.g., in containers designed and intended for oily waste disposal).
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 8 of 53

(e) If the vessel has a bilge oily water separator, check for the presence of a visible sheen in 

surrounding waters periodically while discharging and if a visible sheen is observed as a 

result of this discharge, suspend discharge until the problem is corrected and clean up 

immediately.

(f) For vessels without a U.S. Coast Guard type-approved bilge oily water separator, use an 

oil-absorbent material to remove any oil from the bilge before discharging.

(g) Not discharge packing gland or stuffing box effluent containing oil, including oily 

materials, in quantities that may be harmful or that produce a visible sheen of oil or oily 

materials.

1. If accessible while the vessel is operational and manned, check segregated water 

which contains drips from packing gland effluent or stuffing box effluent daily for the 

presence of a visible sheen. If not accessible while the vessel is operational and 

manned, check the surrounding water for the presence of a visible sheen while the 

vessel is operating. If a visible sheen is observed, use appropriate measures, such as 

the use of oil absorbent materials, to remove the presence of oil before the effluent is

discharged. Use of dispersants or emulsifiers that remove the appearance of a visible 

sheen are prohibited.

2. If a visible sheen is observed in surrounding waters as a result of this discharge, 

suspend the discharge until the problem is corrected and clean up immediately.

(h) Unless technically infeasible, use environmentally acceptable lubricants (“EALs”) (as 

defined in Part 5 of this permit) in all machinery and equipment, including but not limited 

to stern tubes, wires, and two-stroke engines, where discharges of oil to surrounding 

waters are likely to occur. 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 manufacturer 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.

(i) Prior to pumping the bilge, inspect the bilgewater for an oily sheen if practicable. While 

pumping the bilge, examine the surrounding water for the presence of a visible sheen.

1. If a visible sheen is observed as a result of this bilge pumping, suspend the discharge 

until the problem is corrected and clean up immediately.

(j) Not add to the bilge any substance, including dispersants, detergents, emulsifiers, 

chemicals or other substances that remove the appearance of a visible sheen.

SOLID AND LIQUID WASTE MANAGEMENT

You must:

(a) Prevent trash or garbage, including food waste, cigarette butts, bottles, and caps from 

entering and being discharged in any waste stream covered by this permit. This can be 

accomplished, in part, by maintaining a tidy deck.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 9 of 53

(b) Have and maintain appropriate receptacles for retaining trash or garbage onboard the 

vessel. Examples of appropriate receptacles include secured trash bags or coolers, bins, or 

trash cans with secure lids. Store any used antifreeze, paint, out-of-date flares, or other 

toxic or hazardous materials in secure containers and dispose of them properly at onshore 

disposal facilities.

(c) Secure or otherwise prevent loose items on deck from entering any waste stream covered 

by this permit.

(d) Prevent monofilament line, fishing nets, lines, lures, rope, bait boxes, and hooks from 

entering any waste stream covered by this permit.

(e) Not discard any unused live bait overboard, except for bait caught 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 or watershed. 

(f) To the extent practicable, rRemove all accumulated bilgewater prior to transporting the 

vessel from one waterbody to another over land to reduce the risk of transporting invasive 

species and to remove other potential pollutants.

DECK WASHDOWN AND RUNOFF AND ABOVE WATER LINE HULL CLEANING

You must:

(a) Use all soaps and cleaners as directed by the label.

(b) Use only minimally-toxic, phosphate-free, and biodegradable soaps, detergents, or 

cleaners on the vessel. The use of soaps that are labeled toxic or highly toxic is prohibited 

under this permit.

(c) Prevent the introduction of on-deck debris, garbage, residue, and spills into deck 

washdown and runoff discharges.

(d) Minimize the discharge of paint chips and residue, especially during cleaning, 

maintenance, paint application, and reapplication. When performing these activities, 

collect and then dispose of chips and residues onshore in accordance with applicable 

requirements for the facility where operations are performed. 

VESSEL HULL MAINTENANCE

You must:

(a) If the vessel is equipped with an anti-foulant system, minimize the impact of that system 

or the discharges resulting from anti-foulant paints on to the aquatic environment, 

including:

1. Consider whether the use of non-copper based paints adequately meets vessel antifoulant needs and use less toxic alternatives to the extent practicable and available.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 10 of 53

2. Where drying or hull cleaning at haul-out is adequate for managing fouling (e.g., for 

vessels that are hauled frequently or for over-winter storage), not use anti-fouling 

coatings.

3. Not discharge tributyltin (TBT) (i.e., zero-discharge standard). Two potential ways to 

meet this standard are to:

 Have no TBT coatings; or

 Have an effective overcoating that completely eliminates TBT discharges.

4. Not use any other organotin compound (e.g., dibutyltin) as a hull coating except when 

the organotin compound is used as a catalyst and the hull coating contains no more

than 2,500 milligrams 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.

(b) Not clean anti-foulant paint, which releases biocides, for the first 90 days after 

application unless the vessel’s hull is substantially fouled.

(c) If the anti-foulant paint requires cleaning, gently clean hulls on a regular basis (this 

minimizes the need for stronger cleaners and more abrasive brushes).

(d) Examine the water while cleaning hulls coated with anti-fouling paint while the vessel is 

in the water to assure that it is not causing a plume or cloud of paint to form. Stop 

immediately if any visible plume or cloud of paint appears in the water. 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). Consider hiring a qualified, professional hull 

cleaner to do the work, and ensure that they follow environmental guidelines.

(e) When cleaning hulls coated with anti-fouling paint while the vessel is out of the water, 

always work away from the water in a location where paint chips and dust will not be 

washed into the water. Place a tarp under the area to catch loose particles, and properly 

dispose of paint chips, dust, and other particles. If working in an area that is covered by 

an NPDES permit (e.g. marina or drydock), follow the cleaning requirements of that 

permit.

(f) Inspect the vessel hull at least once per quarter for any attached living organisms and 

clean, if necessary, to prevent the spread or dispersal of potentially invasive species.

(g) Minimize the transport of any visible living aquatic organisms from one waterbody to 

another by regularly cleaning and maintaining the hull.

(h) Prior to transporting the vessel from one waterbody to another overland, inspect the 

visible areas of the vessel for any attached or visible stowaway living organisms. If 

organisms are found, remove and appropriately discard these organisms onshore. Do not 

discharge removed organisms into waters subject to this permit.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 11 of 53

GRAYWATER

You must:

(a) Minimize graywater discharges in areas that have heavy vessel traffic or heavy

recreational use and in marine sanctuaries, national wildlife refuges, national wild and 

scenic rivers, and national wilderness areas. If the vessel has the capacity to store 

graywater, it should be stored and discharged outside these waters, preferably at an 

appropriately equipped and permitted onshore facility or outside these waters where 

available.

(b) Minimize the production of graywater while the vessel is stationary in confined waters 

(e.g., marinas, harbors). If the vessel has the capacity to store graywater, it should be 

stored and discharged at an appropriately equipped and permitted onshore facility or 

discharged while the vessel is underway. 

(c) Use soaps, detergents and cleaners that are phosphate free, minimally-toxic, and 

biodegradable for any activities that may result in their introduction into graywater. Do 

not add excess oils (e.g., residual frying oils from pans), including animal fats and 

vegetable oils used during cooking, to the graywater system or into any other discharge 

covered by this permit. 

FISH HOLD EFFLUENT

You must:

(a) Take all reasonable steps 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).

(b) Dispose of solid fish waste 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)).

(c) 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 shore-based seafood processor or other pier and a shore-based discharge 

facility is available, discharge your effluent (including dirty ice) to that shore-based 

facility instead of discharging to surrounding waters if Discharge your effluent (including 

dirty ice) to an available shore-based facility if you are unloading your catch at a shorebased seafood processor or other pier and:

 The shore-based facility’s use is economically achievable, and

 The shore-based facility has a valid NPDES permit, or 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 12 of 53

 That shore-based facility discharges to an NPDES-permitted sewage treatment 

facility.

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) are not subject to this 

requirement.

(d) When cleaning the fish hold, use minimally-toxic, phosphate-free, and biodegradable 

soaps and cleaners. Furthermore, while pierside and stationary, do not wash any residual 

solids into surrounding waters.

BALLAST WATER

You must:

(a) Minimize or aAvoid the discharge or uptake of ballast water in areas within, or that may 

directly affect marine sanctuaries, marine preserves, marine parks, shellfish beds, or coral 

reefs. 

(b) Minimize or avoid uptake of ballast water in the following areas and situations: 

1. Areas known to have infestations or populations of harmful organisms and pathogens 

(e.g., toxic algal blooms).

2. Areas near sewage outfalls. 

3. Areas near dredging operations. 

4. Areas where tidal flushing is known to be poor or times when a tidal stream is known 

to be turbid. 

5. In darkness, when bottom-dwelling organisms may rise up in the water column. 

6. Where propellers may stir up the sediment. 

7. Areas with pods of whales, convergence zones, and boundaries of major currents. 

(c) Discharge only the minimal amount of ballast water essential for vessel operations.

(d) When feasible and safe, use ballast water pumps instead of gravity draining to empty 

your ballast water tanks.

(e) When feasible, use one of the following measures to reduce the potential for transfer or 

introduction of organisms to waters of the U.S.:

1. Use potable water for ballasting.

2. Use onshore treatment or disposal methods for ballast water.

3. For vessels that conduct fixed routes, capture and reuse ballast water in each port, for 

example, by internally transferring ballast water within a vessel’s ballast tanks rather 

than discharging it.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 13 of 53

OVERBOARD COOLING WATER DISCHARGE

You must:

(a) To reduce the production and discharge of cooling overboard discharge, consider using 

shore-based power when the vessel is in port if: 

1. Shore power is readily available for vessel owner/operators from utilities or port 

authorities;

2. Shore-based power supply systems are capable of providing all electricity required 

for vessel operations; and

3. The vessel is equipped to connect to shore-based power and such systems are 

compatible with the available shore power.

COMPLIANCE WITH OTHER STATUTES AND REGULATIONS

You must:

(a) As a condition of this permit, comply with all Federal laws related to discharges 

incidental to the normal operation of a vessel. Examples of applicable Federal laws 

follow:

1. Section 311 of the Clean Water Act, 33 § U.S.C. 1321 and its implementing 

regulations, including 40 CFR Part 110.

2. National Marine Sanctuaries Act, 16 § U.S.C. 1431 et seq. and its implementing 

regulations found at 15 CFR Part 922 and 50 CFR Part 404.

3. United States Department of Agriculture Federal Noxious Weed Act, 7 § U.S.C. 2801 

et seq. and its implementing regulations found at 7 CFR Part 360.

4. Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships, 33 § U.S.C. 1901 et seq.

5. Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, 7 § U.S.C. 136 et seq.

3. MONITORING AND RECORDKEEPING

RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

You must:

(a) Read and sign the PARI Form found in Appendix A of this permit. This form must be

signed and kept on board the vessel at all times to maintain valid sVGP coverage. The 

person signing the PARI Form must be a signatory under 40 CFR § 122.22. A signatory 

includes the person in charge (e.g., the Master), or their duly authorized representative.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 14 of 53

(b) Conduct quarterly visual inspections in accordance with Part 3.2 of this permit and certify

on the PARI Form that the inspections were completed. The person in charge (e.g., the 

Master) or their duly authorized representative may certify the PARI form.

(c) Retain all records required under this permit (e.g., PARI form and inspection records as 

applicable) for a period of at least 3 years from the date the permit expires or the date the 

owner’s or operator’s authorization to discharge under this permit is terminated. For 

purposes of this permit, records may be kept electronically if the records are: 

1. In a format that can be read in a similar manner as a paper record;

2. Legally dependable with no less evidentiary value than their paper equivalent; and 

3. 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.

QUARTERLY VISUAL INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

You must:

(a) Conduct a quarterly visual inspection of each vessel covered by this permit. The 

inspection can be conducted by you or your duly authorized representative.

1. The inspection must cover all discharges and all applicable areas which impact 

discharges covered by the permit and at minimum, the visible portions of the hull.

2. The inspection must ensure that all areas are clear of garbage, exposed raw materials, 

oil, or any other materials that could be discharged into any waste stream or receiving 

waters, and that there are no uncontrolled or unmanaged sources of these pollutants.

(b) While the vessel engine is operating, frequently check the area around and behind the 

vessel to ensure that no visible sheen, dust, chemicals, or discoloration is originating from 

the vessel.

(c) Check to ensure that all equipment on board is in proper working condition. This 

equipment includes, as appropriate, oily water separators, monitors, bilges, pumps, and 

generators.

(d) Check all protective seals for lubrication and hydraulic oil leaks.

(e) Correct any problems identified during the quarterly inspection as soon as possible.

(f) During the quarterly visual inspection, document any problem(s) requiring corrective 

action and corrective actions that were taken to resolve the problem(s).

(g)(f) Document the dates of these inspections on the sVGP PARI Form along with any

problem(s) identified and corrective actions taken to resolve the problem(s).

(h)(g) If vessels are being maintained on land for a full quarter, they need not be 

inspected. Vessel owner/operators must document that the vessel was not in waters for 

that quarter on their PARI form before placing the vessel back into service.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 15 of 53

4. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

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 and EPA regulations at 40 CFR § 122.6 and all permit limitations and conditions will 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; or 

 Issuance of a new general permit which covers your vessel discharges or vessel type and 

provides you coverage without requiring you to submit a notice of intent 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.

ALTERNATIVE PERMITS 

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 for 

alternative permits. 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, unless EPA explicitly 

authorizes your continued coverage under this general permit at the time of the individual permit 

denial.

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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 16 of 53

4.2.1 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. 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 Part 13 of this permit, no later than 90 days after the 

date of publication of final permit in the Federal Register. 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.

PERMIT COMPLIANCE

Any noncompliance with the requirements of this permit constitutes a violation of the Clean 

Water Act. Each day a violation continues is a separate violation of this permit.

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

inaccurate any monitoring device or method required to be maintained under this permit 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 further 

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

certification in any record or other document submitted or required to be maintained under this 

permit, including monitoring reports or reports of compliance or noncompliance 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 U.S.C. § 1001 or 18 U.S.C. § 1519.

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.

DUTY TO PROVIDE INFORMATION

EPA may request any information required to determine whether cause exists for modifying, 

revoking and reissuing, or terminating this permit, or to determine compliance with this permit.

You must provide any requested information within a reasonable time following the request.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 17 of 53

INSPECTION AND ENTRY

The vessel owner or operator shall allow EPA or an authorized representative to:

1. Inspect any vessel, equipment (including monitoring and control equipment), practices, 

or operations regulated or required under this permit; and

2. Sample or monitor, for the purpose of assuring permit compliance or as otherwise 

authorized by the Act, any substances or parameters at any location.

Authorized representatives include the U.S. Coast Guard, an authorized contractor acting as a 

representative of the Administrator or Director, or an appropriate state agency. Authorized 

representatives should present their credentials to the vessel owner or operator before inspecting 

or entering any vessel. 

This section does not limit or replace EPA’s authorities under Section 308 of the CWA, 

including the authority to enter, access, inspect, sample, monitor, and obtain information to 

verify compliance with the CWA.

PROPERTY RIGHTS

The issuance of this permit does not convey any property rights of any sort, or any exclusive 

privileges, nor does it authorize any injury to private property or any invasion of personal rights, 

nor any infringement of federal, state, or local laws or regulations.

SEVERABILITY

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

The permit stands even if portions are remanded unless, as a result of the remand, the permit 

would not meet the minimum legal requirements for NPDES permits under the CWA or its 

implementing regulations.

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.

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.

STANDARD PERMIT CONDITIONS

Permittees must follow all standard conditions required in 40 CFR § 122.41.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 18 of 53

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 transportation, handling, carriage, and storage of pollutants.

In addition, discharges under this permit into the Great Lakes System (as defined in 40 CFR 

§ 132.2) must comply with any conditions promulgated by the State, Tribe, or EPA pursuant to 

40 CFR Part 132 that are applicable to the discharges that are incidental to the normal operation 

of your vessel.

Additionally note that the standard permit condition at 40 CFR § 122.44(i)(5) requires all 

instances of noncompliance be reported to EPA at least once per year. A list of appropriate 

Region contacts can be found on the EPA webpage at 

http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/vessels/monitoringreporting.cfm.

As a requirement of the sVGP, noncompliance reports for the previous calendar year must be 

reported by February 28th of the following calendar year. The sVGP contains an annual 

noncompliance form in Appendix B which must be used when submitting noncompliance 

reports.

WATER-QUALITY-BASED EFFLUENT LIMITATIONS

The requirements in this Part constitute the water quality-based effluent limitations in this 

permit. These water-quality-based effluent limitations supplement this permit’s technologybased limitations in Part 2 of this permit.

Your discharge must be controlled as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards in 

the receiving waterbody or another waterbody impacted by your discharges. EPA expects that 

compliance with the other conditions in this permit 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 action to bring your vessel discharge into compliance, and you must report 

exceedances of water quality standards and the steps you take to bring your vessel into 

compliance on your annual noncompliance report.

EPA may impose additional water quality-based limitations on a site-specific basis or require 

you to obtain coverage under an individual permit if any information indicates that your 

discharges are not controlled as necessary to meet applicable water quality standards, either in 

the receiving waterbody or another waterbody impacted by your discharges. EPA or an 

authorized representative of EPA may inform vessel operators of specific requirements.

4.11.1 Dischargers to Water Quality Impaired Waters

Impaired waters or “water quality limited segment[s]” are those which have been identified 

by a tribe, state, or EPA pursuant to Section 303(d) of the CWA as not meeting applicable state 

or tribal 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 19 of 53

If you discharge to an impaired water without an EPA-approved or established TMDL, you 

are required to comply with the requirements of this section, including any additional 

requirements that EPA may impose pursuant to this section. 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.

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 if applicable, 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 discharges 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 4.2. 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 operators of specific requirements via dock side postings, information made 

available from the Captain of the Port, or by specifically contacting your vessel.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Note that:

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

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

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

sVGP.

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

with any applicable implementing regulations.

 EPA intends to implement the sVGP in accordance with the Clean Water Act 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. 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 20 of 53

5. 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. [source: intro to 40 CFR § 122.2]

“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” 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 CFR § 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).

“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 otherwise eliminate organisms onboard the vessel.

“Biodegradable” means, the following for purposes of the sVGP:

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 

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).
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 21 of 53

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). 

“Constructed” means a state of construction of a vessel at which—

(A) the keel is laid; 

(B) construction identifiable with the specific vessel begins; 

(C) 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 

(D) 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.

“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] 

“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.

“Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants” or “EALs” means lubricants that are “biodegradable” 

and “minimally-toxic,” and are “not bioaccumulative” as defined in this permit. 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 Standard 

SS 155434 and SS 155470, Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the 

North-East Atlantic (OSPAR) requirements, and EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE).
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 22 of 53

“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.

“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]

“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.

“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]

“Mile” means nautical mile as used in this permit, or 6076.1 feet or 1.852 kilometers.

“Minimally-Toxic” means a substance must pass both OECD 201, 202, and 203 for acute 

toxicity testing, and OECD 210 and 211 for chronic toxicity testing. For purposes of the sVGP, 

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. 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 23 of 53

“Minimize” means to reduce and/or eliminate to the extent achievable using control measures 

(including best management practices (BMPs)) that are technologically available and 

economically practicable and achievable in light of best marine practice.

“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 nm;

 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 Substances” (“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. [source: 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 

“Owner/operator” means a party, including a charterer by demise, who:

(1) has operational control over vessel activities, including the ability to modify those 

activities; or

(2) 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. 

“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% or less of phosphates or derivatives of phosphates.

“Port” see “In Port.”
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 24 of 53

“Recreational vessel” means any “vessel” that is either (1) manufactured or used primarily 

for pleasure or (2) leased, rented, or chartered to a person for the pleasure of that person. The

term does not include a vessel that is both subject to Coast Guard inspection and either (1) 

engaged in commercial use or (2) carries paying passengers. [source: 33 U.S.C. 1362(25)]

“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.

“Sewage from vessels” 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 (as that term is defined in Section 312(a)(10) of the 

CWA) on the Great Lakes, the term “sewage from vessels” also includes galley, bath, and 

shower water.

“Territorial sea” has the meaning assigned by section 502(8) of the Federal Water Pollution 

Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1362(8)).

“Toxic and hazardous materials” means, for purposes of the sVGP: any substance identified 

in 40 CFR § 116.4; any toxic pollutant identified in 40 CFR § 401.15; and any hazardous 

material as defined in 49 CFR § 171.8.

“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. [source: modified from 33 U.S.C. 1362(3)]

“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 § 312(a)]

“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].

“Waters subject to this permit” means “waters of the US” 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 7 of the permit.

“You” means the “owner” or “operator” of a permitted vessel. 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 25 of 53

6. 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

Mail Code OEP06-1

Boston, MA 02109-3912

Region 2 – NJ, NY, PR, VI, and 7 Tribal Nations

290 Broadway, 24th Floor 

New York, NY 10007-1866 

Region 3 – DE, DC, MD, PA, VA, WV

1650 Arch St

Philadelphia, PA 19103 

Region 4 – AL, FL, GA, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN, and 2 Tribes

Atlanta Federal Center 

61 Forsyth St SW 

Atlanta, GA 30303-8960 

Region 5 – IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI, and 35 Tribes 

Ralph Metcalfe Federal Building

77 W Jackson Blvd 

Chicago, IL 60604-3507 

Region 6 – LA, AR, OK, NM, TX, and 65 Tribes

1445 Ross Ave 

Dallas, TX 75202-2733 

Region 7 – IA, KS, MO, NE, and 9 Tribes

11201 Renner Boulevard 

Lenexa, Kansas 66219

Region 8 - CO, MT, ND, SD, UT, WY, and 27 Tribal Nations

1595 Wynkoop St 

Denver, CO 80202-1129 

Region 9 – AZ, CA, HI, NV, and Pacific Islands

75 Hawthorne St 

San Francisco, CA 94105-3901 

Region 10 – AK, ID, OR, WA, and Native Tribes

1200 6th Ave 

Seattle, WA 98101-11
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 26 of 53

7. STATE AND TRIBE SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

Permit conditions applicable to specific states, Indian Country, or territories, as added through the CWA Section 

401 certification process, are provided below.

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 permit.2

The sVGP is effective in every State and Indian Country Land except as otherwise noted below. States and 

Indian Tribes which are not listed below have either certified without conditions or waived their right to certify. 

The following States or Tribes included additional permit requirements in their CWA § 401 certification:

Alaska

Alaska certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.1.1 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).

7.1.2 All discharges authorized by the sVGP to waters of the United States extending to the three-mile 

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 implement the BMPs in the sVGP to the degree necessary to ensure 

discharges comply with the applicable water quality criteria for the subject water body.

7.1.3 Permittees covered under the sVGP shall undertake immediate corrective actions to mitigate 

noncompliance or violations with any terms or conditions specified in this Section 401 certification. EPA's 

regulations of vessels under the sVGP 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 EPA-issued sVGP. 

However, the Department does not waive their rights to regulate vessels and or take enforcement action in 

accordance with Alaska law.

7.1.4 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 EPA- approved 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.

 

2 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 27 of 53

Arizona

Arizona certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.2.1 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. R1-8-11-123(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. (A.A.C. R18-11-108(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)).

7.2.2 If ballast water receives chlorination treatment prior to discharge, the discharge must not exceed a 

maximum level of 19 ug/L of total residual chlorine (A.A.C. Title 18, Chapter 11, Article 1, Appendix A, 

Table 1).

7.2.3 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.

7.2.4 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)).

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:

i. CLEAN, DRAIN (remove the bilge plug) and DRY

ii. REMOVE all attached mussels

iii. 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.

Arkansas
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 28 of 53

Arkansas certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.3.1 If a discharger has any violation of any effluent limit in the 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.

7.3.2 All uncontained spills not covered by the 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.

7.3.3 This Department does not support coverage under the 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.

Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians

The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians certified the sVGP with the following additional 

permit conditions:

7.4.1 Only those activities specifically authorized by the sVGP are authorized by this Certification. This 

Certification does not authorize impacts to cultural properties, or historical sites, or properties that may be 

eligible for listing as such. (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians Water Quality 

Standards adopted by Resolution No. 7-6-11-441 (hereafter, Tribe’s WQS); 36 C.F.R. § 800.16(l)(2).)

7.4.2 All projects which are eligible for coverage under the sVGP and are located within the exterior boundaries 

of the Bad River Reservation shall be implemented in such a manner that is consistent with the Tribe’s 

Water Quality Standards (WQS). (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians Water 

Quality Standards adopted by Resolution No. 7-6-11-441 (hereafter, Tribe’s WQS).

7.4.3 All vessels which are eligible for coverage under the sVGP within the exterior boundaries of the Bad River 

Reservation must comply with the Bad River Band Sloughs Protection Ordinance, or Chapter 340 of the 

Bad River Tribal Ordinances. Questions regarding Chapter 340 can be directed to the Tribe’s Natural 

Resources Department at (715) 682-7123.

7.4.4 An owner or operator of a vessel, which is eligible for coverage under the sVGP, that would result in an 

allowable discharge under the sVGP occurring within the exterior boundaries of the Bad River Reservation, 

must notify the Tribe of coverage under the sVGP. (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa 

Indians Water Quality Standards adopted by Resolution No. 7-6-11-441 (hereafter, Tribe’s WQS)). An 

owner or operator must submit a copy of the Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection Form to the 

following address prior to the commencement of coverage under the sVGP:

Bad River Tribe’s Natural Resources Department

Attn: Water Resources Specialist

P.O. Box 39

Odanah, WI 54861
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 29 of 53

7.4.5 Graywater discharges in Outstanding Tribal Resource Water (or Tier 3 water) are not authorized under the 

sVGP. (Tribe’s WQS: See provisions E.3.ii. and E.4.iv). Outstanding Tribal Resource Waters, or Tier 3 

waters, include the following: Kakagon Slough and the lower wetland reaches of its tributaries that support 

wild rice, Kakagon River, Bad River Slough, Honest John Lake, Bog Lake, a portion of Bad River, from 

where it enters the Reservation through the confluence with the White River, and Potato River. (Tribe’s 

WQS: See provision E.2.iii.) 

7.4.6 Any spill of oil or other harmful chemicals that are discharged in a quantity that exceeds criteria contained 

in the Tribe’s Water Quality Standards must be reported within 48 hours to the Bad River Natural 

Resources Department at (715) 682-7123. (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians 

Water Quality Standards adopted by Resolution No. 7-6-11-441 (hereafter, Tribe’s WQS).)

7.4.7 A copy of the annual noncompliance report must be submitted to the following address at the same time it 

is submitted to the U.S. EPA:

Bad River Tribe’s Natural Resources Department

Attn: Water Resources Specialist

P.O. Box 39

Odanah, WI 54861 

California

California certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

This Certification includes Attachments 1-3.3 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 Basin 

Plans

7.5.1 All discharges shall be minimized to the extent practicable in State Water Quality Protection Areas as 

defined in the Public Resources Code, sections 36700 - 36900 inclusive, and the California Ocean Plan. 

(Auth: Pub. Resources Code, § 36710. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards.)

7.5.2 If the ballast water receives chlorination treatment, the discharge to the ocean shall not exceed a maximum 

level of 60 micrograms per liter (μ/L) of total residual chlorine, and if the discharge is to enclosed bays and 

inland waters, then it 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 [Basin 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.)

7.5.3 None of the discharges permitted by the sVGP 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 document which includes bilgewater. Additionally, the following 

wastes are prohibited from being discharged into waters of the State: sewage sludge, used or spent oil, and 

garbage or trash (including plastic). By signing USEPA's PARI form, the vessel owner/operator certifies 

 

3 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 30 of 53

that hazardous wastes as defined under California law, and prohibited wastes, will not be discharged from 

covered vessel or vessels. (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, 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.)

7.5.4 Vessel discharges shall comply with all requirements set forth in all applicable statewide water quality 

control plans and policies, and regional water quality control plans. Attachment 3 lists the effluent 

limitations based on narrative water quality objectives 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.)

7.5.5 Owner/operators of vessels subject to the sVGP shall comply with California Fish and Game Code section 

2301, regarding dreissenid mussels (e.g. quagga and zebra mussels). Owner/operators shall submit to 

inspections by the California Department of Fish and Game at launch ramps or at any other location around 

the state to prevent the transportation of the dreissenid mussels. If owner/operators of vessels discover 

dreissenid mussels within California water bodies, that discovery shall be immediately reported to the 

California Department of Fish and Game. (Auth: Fish & G. Code, § 2300 et seq. This condition cannot be 

made less stringent without violating the requirements of state law, including water quality standards.)

7.5.6 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. (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.)

7.5.7 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 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 waterbodies (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.)

7.5.8 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 (see 

Attachment 1). 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 7.5.9 below. (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

ADMINISTRATIVE CONDITIONS:

7.5.9 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: 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 31 of 53

Wat. Code, §§ 13267, 13383. This condition cannot be made less stringent without violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards.)

Connecticut

Connecticut certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions: 

GENERAL CONDITIONS

7.6.1 Any vessel that discharges or intends to discharge into Connecticut waters under the sVGP 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. This condition is necessary for compliance with CGS sections 22a-430, 22a430b, 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

7.6.2 The operator of any vessel covered under the 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-450.4

7.6.3 All work and activities conducted by the permittee in accordance with the 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 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 noncompliance with this certification must be immediately 

reported to DEEP pursuant to CGS section 22a-450 as set forth in General Condition 7.6.2 above.

7.6.4 All vessels covered by the 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.5

7.6.5 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

 

4 For additional information see the webpage to Report an Environmental Concern or Problem at www.ct.gov/dep.

5 As identified in Part 2 of the sVGP 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 32 of 53

7.6.6 Discharge of treated or untreated bilgewater into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered under the 

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).6 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.

7.6.7 Discharge of treated or untreated graywater into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered under the 

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).7

7.6.8 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 sVGP is prohibited. This condition is necessary for compliance 

with CGS section 22a-430 or 22a-430b and Standards No. 1, 2, 12, 14, and 15 of the CT WQS.8

7.6.9 Discharge of exhaust gas scrubber washwater into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered under the 

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 CTWQS.

7.6.10 Discharges containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) into Connecticut waters from any vessel covered 

under the 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.

7.6.11 Discharge of fish hold effluent from any vessel covered under the 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.

7.6.12 Any discharge from any vessel covered under the 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.9

7.6.13 Discharges to impaired waters in Connecticut shall be consistent with the requirements of the 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 

Eliminate the discharge of such 

substances or minimize 

discharge of these substances to 

 

6 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 Part 5 of the sVGP.

7 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 Part 5 of the sVGP.

8 Point Source" and "Non-point Source" pollution are defined in Appendix A of the CT WQS.

9 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 33 of 53

a decrease in the amount of 

dissolved oxygen in the 

receiving water body

the greatest extent practicable if 

discharge is unavoidable

Within Long Island Sound, 

waters between the 50 ft 

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 I 100 ml with 

no single sample exceeding 104 

CFU/100 ml

7.6.14 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.

Georgia

Georgia certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.7.1 All discharges from vessels covered by these permits will be conducted in a manner so as not to violate 

Georgia's water quality standards.

7.7.2 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.

Hawaii

Hawaii certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.8.1 Coverage of this Conditional WQC

a) Discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel are covered under this conditional Section 401 

WQC unless they are listed in § 1.5 of the sVGP. Discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel, 

when operating as a means of transportation, include, but are not limited to: 

(1) Anti-foulant hull coating leachate.

(2) Bilgewater.

(3) Deck runoff.

(4) Fish hold effluent.

(5) Graywater. 

(6) Non-contact engine cooling water.

(7) Packing gland effluent.

(8) Underwater hull husbandry.

For the purposes of the sVGP, not all vessel discharges are considered incidental to the normal operation of 

a vessel (e.g., industrial discharges).
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 34 of 53

b) Vessel discharges not eligible for coverage under this conditional Section 401 WQC includes:

(1) Vessel discharges not incidental to the normal operation of a vessel.

(2) Sewage.

(3) Used or Spent Oil.

(4) Garbage or Trash.

(5) Tetrachloroethylene (Perchloroethylene) Degreasers and other products. 

(6) Discharges currently or previously covered by another NPDES permit.

c) Geographical Area Exclusions:

Discharges from a vessel eligible for coverage under the proposed sVGP may submit an individual 

Application to the Clean Water Branch (CWB), DOH, for review, processing, and consideration for an 

individual Section 401 WQC if the proposed discharges will enter the following waterbodies:

(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)]

7.8.2 Terms of this conditional Section 401 WQC:

a) This conditional Section 401 WQC for discharges eligible for coverage under EPA proposed sVGP as 

listed in item 7.8.1.a above, shall become effective on December 19, 2014.

These actions shall not preclude the DOH from taking appropriate enforcement action authorized by 

law.

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 sVGP. All terms, requirements, limitations, and restrictions specified in this conditional 

Section 401 shall constitute as Part 7 of the proposed sVGP conditions and shall be primarily enforced 

by the EPA, Region 9, through the compliance of the proposed sVGP. DOH reserves the right to take 

appropriate enforcement action authorized by law.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 35 of 53

7.8.3 Validation of this conditional Section 401 WQC coverage

Vessel “owner” or “operator” must complete the “Permit Authorization and Record of Inspection Form 

“PARI) available in Appendix A of the sVGP and retain it onboard their vessel. Completion of this form 

provides written certification that the vessel “owner” or “operator” has read and understood the terms of the 

sVGP, including the requirements contained in this conditional Section 401 WQC as specified in Part 7 of 

the sVGP. Part IV of the PARI Form also provides written certification that the vessel “owner” or 

“operator” has conducted the required quarterly visual inspections found in Part 3 of the permit. 

All vessels eligible for coverage will receive coverage starting on December 19, 2014, provided vessel 

“owner” or “operator” has signed the sVGP PARI Form and maintain a copy onboard the vessel.

7.8.4 “Owner” or “operator” of the vessel eligible for coverage under sVGP shall conduct the required best 

management practices found in Part 2 of the sVGP and comply with the additional requirements as set forth 

in Parts 3 and 4 of the sVGP. 

7.8.5 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:

a) Materials that will settle to form objectionable sludge or bottom deposits.

b) Floating debris, oil, grease, scum, or other floating materials.

c) 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.

d) 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.

e) Substances or conditions or combinations thereof in concentrations which produce undesirable aquatic 

life.

f) 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.

7.8.6 Ballast water discharges from “Qualifying Vessels” shall also comply with the provisions of HAR, Chapter 

13-76.

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.

7.8.7 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 VI of HRS, Chapter 342D 

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:
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 36 of 53

(1) Authorized to carry fewer than fifty passengers;

(2) That does not provide overnight accommodations for at least fifty 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.

7.8.8 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. 

7.8.9 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.

7.8.10 The discharge incidental to normal operation of commercial vessels and commercial fishing vessels 

permitted under the authorization of proposed sVGP 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. 

7.8.11 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 sVGP, 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.

Idaho

Idaho certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.9.1 Receiving Water Body Level of Protection

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-bycase 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.

7.9.2 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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 37 of 53

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 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.

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 sVGP, 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.

7.9.3 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 sVGP for 

the first time, contact the appropriate DEQ Regional Office (Table 7.9.2) 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.

7.9.4 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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 38 of 53

term of these permits. Because of this possibility, DEQ has evaluated whether the proposed draft 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).

7.9.5 Permittee Responsibility

Owners and operators of vessels covered by 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.deg.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/monitoring-assessment/integratedreport.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.deg.idaho.gov/wg2010/.

The information provided in Table 7.9.1 (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 7.9.1. 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

7.9.6 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 sVGP for 

the first time, contact the appropriate DEQ Regional Office (Table 7.9.2) to determine whether additional 

controls are necessary in order to ensure that high quality waters are not degraded.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 39 of 53

7.9.7 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 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.).

7.9.8 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 7.9.2). 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 7.9.2. DEQ Regional Office contact information

Regional Office Contact Name Phone Number Email

Coeur d’Alene June Bergquist 208-769-1422 june.bergquiest@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).

7.9.9 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).

Illinois

Illinois certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.10.1 Discharges of wastestreams containing Bioaccumulative Chemicals of Concern (BCC's) from vessel 

covered by the Small Vessel General Permit shall be consistent with the provisions of 35 Ill. Adm. Code 

302.520, 302.521, and 302.530.

7.10.2 No effluent from any vessel covered by the Small 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 40 of 53

7.10.3 The discharge from any vessel covered by the Small 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.

7.10.4 No bilge or ballast water from vessels covered by the Small 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.

7.10.5 Any discharge of sewage from a vessel shall comply with 35 Ill. Adm. Code Part 308 - Disposal of Wastes 

from Watercraft.

7.10.6 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.

7.10.7 All discharges to Waters of the State from vessels covered by the Small 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.

Indiana 

Indiana certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.11.1 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.

7.11.2 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 IOEM or any other 

agency or person

7.11.3 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

d. Preempt any duty to obtain federal, state or local permits or authorizations required by law.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 41 of 53

7.11.4 The IDEM, for any vessel that qualifies under the terms and conditions of this certification, may choose to 

require an individual who 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.

7.11.5 Activities authorized by this general permit shall not violate or exceed Indiana's Water Quality Standards at 

327 IAC 2.

Iowa

Iowa certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.12.1 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.

7.12.2 All discharges to waters of the state of Iowa from vessels covered by the sVGP 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

7.12.3 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.

7.12.4 It is illegal for anglers to possess, introduce, purchase, sell, or transport aquatic invasive species in Iowa 

except when a species is being removed from watercraft or equipment, is caught and immediately killed or 

returned to the water from which it came, or is being transported in a sealed container for identification 

purposes. It is also illegal to introduce any live fish, except for hooked bait, into public waters.

7.12.5 Recreational vessels with installed toilets must have an operable marine sanitation device on board. All 

installed devices must be U.S. Coast Guard-certified.

Kansas

Kansas certified the sVGP 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 [KAR 28-16-28E(B)]:

7.13.1 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.

7.13.2 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 wellbeing of livestock, domestic animals, terrestrial wildlife, or aquatic or semiaquatic life.

7.13.3 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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 42 of 53

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.

7.13.4 Surface waters shall be free of floating debris, scum, foam, froth, and other floating materials directly or 

indirectly attributable to artificial sources of pollution.

7.13.5 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.

7.13.6 Surface waters shall be free of deposits of sludge or fine solids attributable to artificial sources of pollution.

7.13.7 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.

7.13.8 The natural appearance of surface waters shall not be altered by the addition of color-producing or 

turbidity-producing substances of artificial origin.

Maine

Maine certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.14.1 Draft permit generally. All the conditions set forth in the draft sVGP 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.

7.14.2 No vessel covered by the sVGP that is coated with a pesticide containing antifouling paint 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.10

Michigan

Michigan certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

 

10 38 MRSA § 420(2) and 38 MRSA § 465-B
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 43 of 53

7.15.1 Discharges of blackwater and graywater from vessels covered by the sVGP are prohibited to Michigan 

waters. (Part 95, Watercraft Pollution Control, of the NREPA)

7.15.2 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)

7.15.3 Each condition in the proposed sVGP cannot be made less stringent without potentially violating the 

requirements of state law, including water quality standards. (Part 31 of the NREPA)

7.15.4 All discharges to Michigan waters from vessels covered by the USEPA's sVGP 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

Minnesota

Minnesota certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.16.1 The conditions in the draft sVGP cannot be made less stringent without violating water quality standards 

and other requirements of State law. See 40 CFR § 124.53 (e)(3). The MPCA has not identified any 

additional conditions that are needed to meet the requirements of either the CWA or Minnesota Rules, 

provided the conditions of the final sVGP are at least as stringent as the conditions of the draft sVGP.

7.16.2 The Permittee shall report all instances of noncompliance with this certification as soon as possible, and in 

no case longer than 30 days of the discovery of the noncompliance (Minn. R.7001.0150, subp.2[K][L]).

Missouri

Missouri certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.17.1 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.

7.17.2 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.

7.17.3 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.

Nebraska
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 44 of 53

Nebraska certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.18.1 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.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.19.1 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.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/publications/wd/documents/no_discharge_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 2.7 requires, among other things, the minimization of graywater discharges to waters in national 

wildlife refuges and waters with heavy recreational use. This part also states that vessels withholding 

tanks should hold and discharge graywater outside of these areas. Discharges of graywater should be 

avoided/minimized as appropriate in the waters of Great Bay, the location of the Great Bay National 

Wildlife Refuge. Further, for all practical purposes for this part, New Hampshire waters with heavy 

recreational use include all tidal rivers and tributaries, with the exception of the Piscataqua River east 

of the Interstate 95 Bridge, and within 150 feet of the shoreline of all other waters.

d. Bilgewater may contain fuel, oil, paint chips and other pollutants associated with the cargo or 

processes occurring on the vessel. Part 2.3(i) 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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 45 of 53

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).

7.19.2 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.htm. Information on 

pumpout facilities on Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Sunapee and Squam Lake can be found at 

http://des.nh.gov/organization/commissioner/pip/publications/wd/documents/lakes_region_pumpout.p

df. 

b. Bilgewater may contain fuel, oil, paint chips and other pollutants associated with the cargo or 

processes occurring on the vessel. Part 2.3(i) 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).

North Carolina

North Carolina certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.20.1 This Certification is valid only for those activities that fully comply with all terms and conditions of the 

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 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.

7.20.2 Discharges that are not eligible for coverage under the sVGP that require an individual permit must also 

obtain an individual Water Quality Certification or waiver from the Division.

7.20.3 This General Certification does not relieve the applicant/permittee of the responsibility to obtain all other 

required Federal, State, or Local approvals.

7.20.4 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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 46 of 53

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. 

Oklahoma

Oklahoma certified the sVGP with the noted exception that the sVGP is not effective in the listed Oklahoma 

Outstanding Resource Waters.11

Vermont

Vermont certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.22.1 The Department certifies there is a reasonable assurance that discharges from vessels covered by EPA's 

sVGP will comply with the applicable provisions of 33 U.S.C §§ 1311, 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.

7.22.2 The operator of any vessel covered under the 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.

7.22.3 All work and activities conducted by the permittee in accordance with the 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 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 noncompliance with this certification must be immediately 

reported to the Department at (802) 828-1535.

7.22.4 The discharge of wastewaters from pressure washing the bottom of vessels and any point source or nonpoint source pollution from spillage, sanding, sand blasting, or scraping vessels into Vermont waters from 

any vessel covered under the sVGP is prohibited.

7.22.5 Any discharge from any vessel covered under the 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.

7.22.6 This certification is only valid for those activities that fully comply with all terms and conditions of EPA's 

final sVGP and all other state laws applicable to such discharges. The Department reserves the authority to 

 

11 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.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 47 of 53

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.

7.22.7 Discharges that are not eligible for coverage under the sVGP and that require an individual permit must

obtain an individual water quality certification or waiver from the Department.

7.22.8 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.

Washington

Washington certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

7.23.1 Conditions Related to Washington State Geography

1. The conditions and requirements of the Small Vessel General Permit (sVGP) shall extend to all surface 

waters of the state. (Authority- Article XXIV of the Washington State Constitution and 43 USC § 

1312.)

2. Many of the instructions in the sVGP involve using onshore disposal if available. Proper interpretation 

of these instructions requires knowledge on pumpout facility locations. The VGP/sVGP webpage 

contains links to information showing where pumpout facilities are available and providing guidance 

on other vessel-related environmental issues.

7.23.2 Conditions Related to State Law

1. Except for firefighting foam discharged during an emergency, maintenance, or training, 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 or sVGP, the discharge of fish hold effluent while at a dock, pier, or mooring is 

prohibited.

3. 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. The sVGP Part 2.6(f) requires vessel operators to periodically inspect and clean vessel hulls if 

necessary to prevent the spread or dispersal of invasive species. The sVGP Part 2.6(g) requires vessel 

operators to minimize the transport of visible living organisms from one waterbody to another. The 

sVGP Part 3.2 requires quarterly inspection of the visible portions of the hull. 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 7.22.5 contains 

contact information and instructions for seeking WDFW approval.

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 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 paragraphs 2.6(f) 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 48 of 53

and 2.6(g) of the sVGP, vessel operators must periodically conduct hull inspections and perform hull 

cleaning if needed.

7.23.3 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 sVGP Part 2.7.

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.

7.23.4 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 sVGP, 

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.

7.23.5 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/index.html. 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.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin certified the sVGP with the following additional permit conditions:

GENERAL CONDITIONS:

7.24.1 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(1)(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 
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 49 of 53

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:

7.24.2 Discharges of graywater or sewage into Lake Michigan, a No Discharge Zone, are subject to penalties [s. 

29.601(3), Wis. Stats.].

7.24.3 All instances of noncompliance with this certification must be reported to WDNR immediately [s. NR 

205.07(1)(s), Wis. Adm. Code].
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 50 of 53

(This page left blank intentionally.)
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 51 of 53

APPENDIX A -PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND RECORD OF INSPECTION (PARI) 

FORM

Small Vessel General Permit (sVGP) 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 sVGP and that I am implementing all permit 

requirements contained in the sVGP.

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. Quarterly Inspections by Year

A. 2015 1

st Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

2

nd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

3

rd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

4

th Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

Date

Sign Here

_ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _

I certify that I have completed all of my quarterly inspections for 2014 in accordance with Part 3.2 of the sVGP

___________________________________________ (Signature and Date)

B. 2016 1

st Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

2

nd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

3

rd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

4

th Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

Date

Sign Here

_ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _

I certify that I have completed all of my quarterly inspections for 2015 in accordance with Part 3.2 of the sVGP

___________________________________________ (Signature and Date)

C. 2017 1

st Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

2

nd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

3

rd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

4

th Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

Date:

Sign Here

_ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _

I certify that I have completed all of my quarterly inspections for 2016 in accordance with Part 3.2 of the sVGP

___________________________________________ (Signature and Date)

D. 2018 1

st Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

2

nd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

3

rd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

4

th Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

Date

Sign Here

_ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _

I certify that I have completed all of my quarterly inspections for 2017 in accordance with Part 3.2 of the sVGP

___________________________________________ (Signature and Date)

E. 2019 1

st Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

2

nd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

3

rd Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

4

th Qtr Inspection 

Completed: □

Date

Sign Here

_ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _ _ _ / _ _ / _ _ _ _

I certify that I have completed all of my quarterly inspections for 2018 in accordance with Part 3.2 of the sVGP

___________________________________________ (Signature and Date)
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 52 of 53

Corrective Action Records for the sVGP

If you need to take any corrective actions resulting from your quarterly visual inspections please record your findings on the next page

Date sVGP Requirement 

Affected

Description Cause Description of Corrective Action 

Performed or Scheduled

Please include additional pages as necessary.
Final 2014 sVGP

(Notable changes to sVGP based on 1/10/13 version sent to OMB for E.O. 12866 interagency review.)

Page 53 of 53

APPENDIX B – ANNUAL NONCOMPLIANCE FORM

United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460

Annual Noncompliance Form for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation

of a Vessel under the NPDES small Vessel General Permit (sVGP)

A. Vessel Owner/Operator Information:

Name: 

Street:

City: State: Zip:

Country:

Phone: Fax (optional):

E-mail:

B. Vessel Information:

Vessel Name:

Vessel ID/ Registered Number/ IMO number:

Vessel Call Sign: 

Flag State/Port of Registry:

Type of Vessel (select one):

□ Commercial Fishing Vessel □ Barge

□ Ferry □ Research Vessel

□ Rescue Vessel □ Other: __________________________

□ Passenger Vessel

Vessel Weight: □ Gross Tons □ Gross Registered Tons

Vessel Length: □ Feet □ Meters

C. Instances of Noncompliance

Please fill out the information below describing your instances of noncompliance (e.g., not using phosphate free soaps). Use additional pages if 

necessary

Date sVGP Requirement 

Affected

Description of 

Noncompliance

Cause of 

Noncompliance

Description of Corrective Action 

Performed or Scheduled

D. 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

Print Name:

Title:

E-mail: