Edwards Aquifer Protection Plans
Defines Edwards Aquifer protection plans, explains why they are necessary, and outlines who is required to prepare and submit them to TCEQ.
What is an Edwards Aquifer protection plan?
An Edwards Aquifer protection plan (EAPP) outlines the best management practices that will be implemented and maintained, both during and after construction activities, to prevent contaminants found in storm water from reaching the Edwards Aquifer.
The EAPP may include a:
- water pollution abatement plan
- organized sewage collection system plan
- underground storage tank facility plan
- aboveground storage tank facility plan
- contributing zone plan
Or one of the following requests to be granted by the executive director:
These plans are necessary to ensure that steps are taken to protect groundwater and maintain Texas Surface Water Quality Standards in areas that will impact the Edwards Aquifer.
If you plan to conduct a regulated activity (such as construction, land clearing, aboveground or underground storage tank installation) over the Edwards Aquifer, you must submit your plan to the TCEQ for approval prior to disturbing soil at the site.
A complete list of regulated activities for the contributing zone of the Edwards Aquifer, including exclusions, can be found in both 30 TAC 213.3(28) and 30 TAC 213.22(6)
There are a number of forms that are required for each plan type. In order to help you figure out what forms are required, visit Edwards Aquifer Protection Plan: What Forms You Might Need.
You can find additional information on the Edwards Aquifer Protection Program Web page.
If you have any questions about whether you need an exception request, contact the Edwards Aquifer Protection Program staff in your local regional office.
If you are located in Williamson, Travis, or Hays County, call the TCEQ’s Austin Regional Office at
(512) 339-2929.
For help in Comal, Bexar, Medina, Uvalde, or Kinney County, call TCEQ’s San Antonio Regional Office
at (210) 490-3096.