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Questions or Comments: eapp@tceq.texas.gov

Edwards Aquifer Exception Request

Outlines when it is appropriate to request an exception from provisions of the Edwards Aquifer rules and the forms that are required.

Under what circumstances is an exception request appropriate?

You may request an exception from any or all of the substantive provisions of the Edwards Aquifer rules. Two examples include:

  • an activity that does not involve construction, but does include minor soil disturbance and stabilization.
  • an exception from submitting a water pollution abatement plan because your site has been developed before, and you plan on adding a negligible increase in impervious cover.

As part of your request, you must provide evidence that water quality will be protected.
We cannot grant an exception for a prohibited activity (30 TAC 213.8

Under what circumstances is an exception request not necessary?

Some types of exception requests are appropriate elements of the plan application, so you do not need to make a separate exception request for things such as:

  • a request to use innovative technology as your permanent best management practice;
  • to use an existing geologic assessment for your application; or
  • a variance from the minimum or maximum flow rate for sewage lines for your organized sewage collection system plan.

When should an exception request be submitted?

The request must go through the application submission and review process and be approved prior to the commencement construction or other regulated activities.

How much is the fee?

The fee for each exception request is $500. For additional information on fees, view the Application Fee Form TCEQ-0574 ( PDF, Word), which includes a complete fee schedule.

Are there any tips for completing this request?

Do not leave any questions unanswered. If a question does not apply to your site, enter “N/A” in the blank and briefly explain why the question does not apply.

How do I know what forms to complete?

The forms listed below are grouped by Recharge and Transition Zones or Contributing Zone. Select the appropriate link to expand your view of available forms based on which type you need. Use the applicable forms to prepare your exception request.

The following forms are required when requesting an exception in the Recharge or Transition Zones of the Edwards Aquifer.

Application Cover Page
General Information
Geologic Assessment
Recharge and Transition Zone Exception Request
Temporary Stormwater Section (if applicable)
Permanent Stormwater Section (if applicable)
Agent Authorization
  • Form TCEQ-0599 ( PDF, Word), if application submitted by agent
Application Fee
  • Form TCEQ-0574 ( PDF, Word)
  • Check payable to the “Texas Commission on Environmental Quality”
Core Data Form
  • Form TCEQ-10400 ( Word)
  • Instructions TCEQ-10400-Instructions ( PDF)

The following forms are required when requesting an exception in the Contributing Zone of the Edwards Aquifer.

Application Cover Page
Contributing Zone Exception Request
Temporary Stormwater Section (if applicable)
Agent Authorization
  • Form TCEQ-0599 ( PDF, Word), if application submitted by agent
Application Fee
  • Form TCEQ-0574 ( PDF, Word)
  • Check payable to the “Texas Commission on Environmental Quality”
Core Data Form
  • Form TCEQ-10400 ( Word)
  • Instructions for TCEQ-10400 ( PDF)

Who can I contact if I need help?

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.