Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit Renewal

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) renewed the Small MS4 General Permit, TXR040000, on Aug. 15, 2024. This general permit authorizes stormwater discharges from small MS4s located within an urban area with a population of at least 50,000 people into surface water in the state. Existing permittees and newly regulated small MS4s will have a 180-day period to renew or apply for their authorization. The renewal period ends on Feb. 11, 2025.

Notice of Intent

To obtain or renew authorization, prepare a Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) before submitting the Notice of Intent (NOI) application. TCEQ is creating a SWMP template for Level 1 and 2 small MS4s. The NOI must be submitted electronically using EPA’s Central Data Exchange (CDX) NeT-MS4 application and reporting system . The NOI application fee is $400.

Waiver Option

TCEQ may waive permitting requirements if the small MS4 meets certain requirements listed in Part II Section C of the general permit. Small MS4 operators (existing and newly regulated) that are eligible for the waiver must submit the waiver application using EPA’s CDX NeT-MS4 system . Waived MS4s do not need to develop a SWMP and there is no application fee.

Resources for Small MS4 Operators

EPA will be hosting a virtual training for Texas small MS4 operators on how to use the NeT-MS4 system on Sept. 17, 2024, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. CDT. Visit EPA’s registration website to register for the webinar.

Visit the General Permit TXR04000 for Phase II (Small) MS4s webpage to view the renewal general permit and find guidance on the application. Visit our Assistance Tools for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) for more resources.

For further assistance, contact the Small Business and Local Government Assistance hotline at 1-800-447-2827.