Vessel Deconstruction General Permit
The Vessel Deconstruction General Permit (VDGP) is a National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit that regulates the deconstruction of vessels. The permit controls the discharge of pollutants from stormwater, drydock floodwater, and non-stormwater discharges associated with vessel deconstruction activities into waters of the state.
Older vessels near the end of their lifecycle pose significant risks to public health, safety, and the environment. Because the decommission and disposal of these vessels is a high priority, we have developed and issued this general permit to create additional options for deconstruction of vessels.
The new permit is effective on Aug. 1, 2024, and expires on July 31, 2029.
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Current permit documents
- Vessel Deconstruction General Permit (effective Aug. 1, 2024)
- Fact Sheet (This is a reference document for the Vessel Deconstruction General Permit)
- Small Business Economic Impact Analysis
Permit reissuance
We are pleased to announce that we issued the final Vessel Deconstruction General Permit. Previously, we invited comments on the draft general permit documents beginning Oct. 18 to Dec. 6, 2024. We also held online workshops and public hearings. During the workshops in November, we explained the proposed changes to the permit and answered questions. The hearings began immediately following the public workshops. Appendix C of the fact sheet shows our response to comments received.
Do I need a permit?
You are required to obtain coverage under the vessel deconstruction general permit for any activities involving dismantling any portion of a vessel hull, topside, or superstructure while the vessel is over water, on a dry-dock, or on a barge. Our focus sheet explains the different types of permit coverage related to vessel deconstruction and when you would need to obtain coverage under this permit.
Deconstruction activities conducted within a facility already covered by an individual or other applicable general NPDES permit for this work do not require coverage under the vessel deconstruction permit. You are not required to obtain coverage under this permit for activities related to vessel retrieval.
Permit application and forms
Historic permit documents
Related links
Contact information
Eric Daiber
Vessel Deconstruction General Permit Writer
eric.daiber@ecy.wa.gov
360-742-1511