Operation Permits

12VAC5-590-190 of the Waterworks Regulations requires all waterworks in Virginia to be operated under the authorization of an Operation Permit issued by the Commissioner.

A new Operation Permit is issued for

• New waterworks; or
• Waterworks that have a change in ownership.

An Operation Permit may be amended for

• Changes in source, treatment, storage, pumping or distribution facilities; or
• Operating conditions.

The permitted capacity of the waterworks is the limiting hydraulic capability of the waterworks, taking into consideration the source water withdrawal, treatment facilities, finished water storage, delivery and distribution system.

ODW issues 2 types of Operation Permits: Standard and Temporary.

• Standard Operation Permits have no expiration date.
• Temporary Operation Permits have an expiration date; typically 12 – 18 months from the issuance date. A Temporary Operation Permit allows additional time for the waterworks to achieve required reliability, collect additional data, and perform tests and/or determinations to establish hydraulic capacity and treatment performance.