DEQ releases Reuse Permit Writer’s Manual

July 1, 2024

Contact: Tressa Nicholas, Wastewater and Reuse Analyst, [email protected]

BOISE - The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the publication of the Reuse Permit Writer's Manual, which outlines technical considerations for developing water reuse permits.

Water reuse is the practice of reclaiming water from a variety of sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes such as crop irrigation or other uses.

The reuse of recycled water in Idaho is regulated by the "Recycled Water Rules" (IDAPA 58.01.17) and requires a permit from DEQ. The permit writing process involves a series of pre-application meetings and submittals where the applicant is required to provide sufficient documentation to develop a comprehensive understanding of the proposed site, treatment method, recycled water uses, and any other details.

The Permit Writer's Manual is designed to acquaint DEQ permit writers with the Reuse Program and methods to evaluate materials submitted during the pre-application phase. The guidance is also intended to help new and experienced permit writers successfully complete a new reuse permit and inform users of the legal and technical aspects associated with developing reuse permits.

The Permit Writer's Manual is available on DEQ's Guidance page. Learn more about water reuse permits on DEQ's Municipal and Industrial Permits web page.