If the project has the potential to impact any endangered or threatened species, or species of special concern, or their essential habitats, the application will require additional review by the Natural Diversity Data Base Staff. Other specific information may be required for certain discharge categories. After this notice, a 30 day comment period is provided where written comments may be submitted and a public hearing may be requested. A hearing will be held upon receipt of a petition signed by at least 25 persons and may also be held at DEP's initiative. DEP may require an applicant to post a sign on the site or to provide any other reasonable form of notice necessary to apprise the public and abutting landowners of the proposed activity.
Most discharge permits expire after a five year period.
For some discharges, DEP may issue a permit valid for a period of up to ten years. To renew a permit, the permittee must submit a sufficient renewal application at least 180 days prior to the permit expiration date. A permittee must notify DEP of a facility or process modification prior to implementing such change and either receive written notification from DEP indicating that permit modification is unnecessary, or obtain a permit modification in accordance with regulatory requirements. This overview is designed to answer general questions and provide basic information. You should refer to the appropriate statutes and regulations for the specific regulatory language of the different permit programs.