National Pollutant Discharge

Elimination System (NPDES)

The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, or NPDES,  was enacted by the Federal Government in1972 as part of the Clean Water Act. It regulates discharges of pollutants into waters of the United States. In Florida, the Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) administers the program.

As a county government that owns and maintains stormwater infrastructure, such as roadside ditches, underground stormwater pipes, and stormwater ponds, Leon County is required to obtain a NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. The MS4 permit requires that Leon County carry out and document the implementation of pollution control measures. When followed, these control measures should result in a reduction of pollutants discharged into receiving waters. The six minimum pollution control measures include:

1. Public Education/Outreach

2. Public Involvement/Participation

3. Construction Site Runoff Control

4. Post-Construction Runoff Control

5. Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping

6. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

For more on the NPDES program, click on the following links:

EPA's Overview of the NPDES Program

EPA's NPDES Stormwater Program Overview

FDEP's NPDES MS4 Program Overview

What is an illicit discharge?

How do I report an illicit discharge?


Public Education/Outreach
Calendar of Events

Public Involvement/Participation
Citizen Committees

Construction Site Runoff Control 
Development Support and Environmental Management Department - Site Plan Review and Environmental Inspection and Compliance

Post-Construction Runoff Control
Development Support and Environmental Management Department - Environmental Inspection and Compliance

Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping 
Public Works Department - Operations Division - Stormwater Maintenance

Staff Training

Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
Public Works Department - Engineering Services Division - Proactive and Reactive Illicit Activity Program