New Jersey Water Pollution Control Rules
Official: N.J.A.C. 7:14A, New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
Reading: This is a readoption of existing NJPDES regulations without substantive amendment, extending the current permit discharge elimination system rules.
The state updated and confirmed these rules are still in effect to protect New Jersey's water quality.
In clear language
New Jersey has reapproved its rules that control what pollution companies can release into waterways, streams, and other water bodies. These rules make sure that businesses, factories, and treatment plants get permission before they can discharge waste into water and that they meet strict pollution limits. The state updated and confirmed these rules are still in effect to protect New Jersey's water quality.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Industrial facilities and manufacturers that release water or wastewater
- Municipal sewage treatment plants and water utilities
- Construction companies and stormwater operations
- Anyone living near or dependent on New Jersey's rivers, streams, and coastal waters
- Businesses applying for permits to discharge materials into water
What can you do?
- Review your local utility's pollution discharge permit if you work in water management or industrial operations
- Report illegal dumping or suspicious water discharges to the NJ DEP hotline
- Attend public comment periods if new discharge permits are proposed in your area
Timeline
- 2022-11-07
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
Related policies
- DEPJun 15, 2026New Jersey Updates Rules to Protect Coastal Areas, Wetlands, and Flood-Risk Zones
New Jersey is adopting updated rules for coastal zone management, freshwater wetlands protection, and flood hazard areas to better manage environmental risks. These changes apply to how the state regulates development and activities in sensitive water and coastal environments. The updates aim to strengthen protections for these areas in response to changing conditions and environmental needs.
- DEPJun 15, 2026New Jersey Updates Cleanup Standards for GenX Contamination in Groundwater
New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection has adopted new rules that set cleanup standards for GenX, a chemical used in manufacturing that can contaminate groundwater and drinking water. These standards tell property owners and cleanup companies how clean the soil and water must be before a contaminated site is considered safe. The rules apply to sites across New Jersey that need remediation.
- DEPJun 1, 2026New Jersey's Plan to Keep Its Pollution-Reduction Program Going
New Jersey is proposing to extend NJPACT – REAL, a program that rewards businesses for reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The state is asking for public comments on this extension plan through July 31, 2026. If approved, the program will continue helping companies meet environmental targets and improve air quality.
- DEPApr 22, 2026New Jersey Awards $14.8 Million to Protect Communities from Flooding Through Coastal Ecosystem Restoration
New Jersey is giving $14.8 million to three projects in Cape May, Cumberland, and Ocean counties to protect communities from flooding by restoring coastal ecosystems like wetlands and marshes that naturally absorb storm surge and floodwaters. These grants are part of the state's Natural Climate Solutions Grant Program. The money helps communities adapt to flooding risks while improving the natural environment.