Indiana Administrative Code Title 330.1 - WATER POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD
Indiana Administrative Code
Title 330.1 – Water Pollution Control Board
Overview
Title 330.1 governs the Water Pollution Control Board (WPCB) in Indiana, the agency responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations related to the prevention, control, and abatement of water pollution in the state. The Board plays a critical role in safeguarding Indiana's water resources by setting standards and policies to ensure water quality.
The rules within this title outline the procedures, standards, and enforcement mechanisms for protecting surface and groundwater from pollution caused by industrial, municipal, agricultural, and other sources.
Key Areas Covered in Title 330.1
1. Purpose and Authority
The WPCB operates under the Indiana Water Pollution Control Act.
The Board is empowered to:
Adopt water quality standards.
Issue permits for discharges into waters of the state.
Establish effluent limitations and pollution control requirements.
Conduct hearings and enforce compliance.
It works closely with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM).
2. Water Quality Standards
Sets water quality criteria to protect:
Public health.
Aquatic life.
Recreational uses.
Agricultural uses.
Standards include allowable concentrations of pollutants such as heavy metals, nutrients, bacteria, and toxic chemicals.
Establishes classifications for different water bodies based on use and sensitivity.
3. Permitting Process
Details requirements for obtaining National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.
Permits regulate discharges from:
Municipal wastewater treatment plants.
Industrial facilities.
Stormwater systems.
Concentrated animal feeding operations.
Includes application procedures, conditions, monitoring, and reporting requirements.
4. Effluent Limitations and Controls
Defines limits on pollutant levels that can be discharged.
Specifies technology-based and water quality-based controls.
Requires periodic monitoring and submission of discharge reports.
Sets guidelines for spill prevention and response.
5. Compliance and Enforcement
Procedures for inspection and investigation of suspected violations.
Penalties for non-compliance, including fines and orders for corrective action.
Authority to issue cease and desist orders.
Legal remedies to enforce water pollution laws.
6. Public Participation and Hearings
Guidelines for public notice and comment on permits and rulemaking.
Procedures for public hearings on contested cases, permit denials, or enforcement actions.
Ensures transparency and opportunity for stakeholders to participate.
7. Definitions and General Provisions
Clarifies terminology related to water pollution control.
Establishes general administrative procedures for the Board.
Includes rules for record keeping and confidentiality.
Summary Table
| Section | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Purpose & Authority | Powers to regulate water pollution and enforce laws |
| Water Quality Standards | Criteria to protect health, environment, and water uses |
| Permitting Process | NPDES permits for discharges, application and conditions |
| Effluent Limitations | Pollutant limits, monitoring, and reporting |
| Compliance & Enforcement | Inspections, penalties, corrective orders |
| Public Participation | Notice, hearings, and stakeholder input |
| Definitions & Provisions | Terminology and administrative rules |
Conclusion
The Indiana Administrative Code Title 330.1 establishes the framework for controlling water pollution in Indiana through the Water Pollution Control Board. By setting water quality standards, regulating discharges, and enforcing compliance, the Board helps protect Indiana’s water resources for public health, environmental sustainability, and economic use.
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