Programs
The programs include an approved pretreatment program, waste hauler permitting program, on-site sewage facility program, and education opportunities. For more information on any of the programs, please contact the Industrial Pretreatment Division at 940-349-8619.
Approved Pretreatment Program
The pretreatment program is required by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The major elements of the program include:
- Conducting waste surveys at all commercial and industrial facilities
- Permitting facilities that meet the definition of Significant Industrial User
- Inspecting and sampling businesses and the collection system to assess compliance with discharge limits
- Identifying the source of any pollutants discharged to the wastewater treatment plant that may pass-through or interfere with treatment
The City permits, inspects, and collects samples to ensure compliance with federal prohibited discharge standards and specific pollutant limitations. The pretreatment standards and limitations can be found in Ordinance 21-242a (PDF).
Significant Industrial Users (SIUs) are required to obtain a wastewater discharge permit prior to discharging any process wastes into the sanitary sewer. A facility is determined to be an SIU if it is subject to categorical pretreatment standards, discharges 25,000 gallons per day or more of process wastewater, contributes a large organic loading, or has a reasonable potential for adversely affecting the collection system or treatment plant.
Waste Hauler Permitting & FOG Programs
In order to facilitate proper handling and disposal of wastes generated throughout the City, waste haulers are permitted. The permit program requires registration of all waste vehicles. For liquid waste transporters, such as grease and grit waste, specific reporting requirements are in place to provide tracking of proper disposal.
If you would like to apply for a permit or need your grease or grit interceptor pumped, please visit Permitted Waste Haulers for more information.
On-Site Sewage Facilities
On-site sewage facilities (OSSFs), sometimes referred to as septic systems, need proper installation and maintenance in order to safely treat and dispose of wastewater at residences and businesses that are not connected to the sanitary sewer system. For all installations, repairs, and alterations, a permit should be obtained. Please visit the City of Denton Building Safety page to apply for an OSSF permit.
When OSSFs malfunction, a discharge of untreated wastewater can occur which poses a threat to public health and the environment. The City's Designated Representative conducts plan review and inspections for installations as well as investigates complaints regarding malfunctioning systems. Regular maintenance of an OSSF is vital to the effective operation of the system.
Education Opportunities
Staff interacts with the public during wastewater plant tours, special events, and media events to encourage proper disposal of items that can clog the sanitary sewer. Residents help to prevent sewer backups and overflows by properly disposing of:
- Cooking oil
- Diapers
- Grease
- Paper towels
- Wipes
Visit our Maintain Your Drain page to learn more about recycling and proper disposal options.