Informal Public Feedback Period

The current permit expires on March 31, 2026. We are taking the first step in developing the new permit. We are seeking preliminary feedback on the current 2021 permit to develop that next permit. Ecology invites early informal feedback through March 12, 2025.

The permit reissuance process includes informal public feedback on the current permit, a formal public comment period on the draft permit, and formal public meetings and hearings.

In fall 2025, Ecology will release a draft permit for a formal public comment period. We will consider the informal comments collected during the informal public comment period as we develop the draft permit. Comments received during the informal public feedback period are not included in the official response to comments for the permit’s 2026 reissuance. We plan to make a permit reissuance decision at the end of this process in early 2026.

Background

The Sand & Gravel General Permit provides coverage for facilities that engage in sand and gravel, rock quarry, and similar mining operations. The permit also covers facilities that participate in concrete batch and hot mix asphalt operations. The purpose of the permit is to control the discharge of pollutants associated with sand and gravel activities.

Under the Federal Clean Water Act and State Water Pollution Control Act, a permit is required for the discharge of wastewaters either directly or indirectly to waters of the state. Learn more about the Sand and Gravel General Permit and view related documents.