DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY  
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSE DIVISION  
GENERAL RULES  
(By authority conferred on the water resources commission by sections 2 and 5 of  
Act No. 245 of the Public Acts of 1929, as amended, sections 33 and 63 of Act No.  
306 of the Public Acts of 1969, as amended, and Executive Order No. 1976-8a,  
being §§323.2, 323.5, 24.233, and 24.263 of the Michigan Compiled Laws)  
PART 22. GROUNDWATER QUALITY  
R 323.2201 Purpose; scope.  
Rule 2201. As used in these rules:  
(a) "Act" means Act No. 451 of the Public Acts of 1994, as amended, being section  
324.101 et. seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the natural resources  
and environmental protection act.  
(b) "Additive" means a substance added to water to enhance its effectiveness  
for uses such as, but not limited to, cleaning, disinfecting, heating, and cooling.  
A
substance may be added to water directly or indirectly by being added to a process in  
such a way that it becomes a constituent of the wastewater.  
(c) "Aquifier" means a geological formation, group of formations, or partof a  
formation capable of yielding significant quantities of groundwater to wells or springs.  
(d) "Background groundwater quality" means the concentration or level of  
asubstance in groundwater within an aquifer and hydraulically connected aquifers at  
the site receiving a discharge, if the aquifer has not been impacted by a discharge  
caused by human activity.  
(e) "Cluster well" means a grouping of more than 1 well at a single location  
where the screen for each well in the group is set either at a different depth within  
the same aquifer or set in different aquifers separated by a confining or semi-  
confining layer.  
(f) "Controlled application" means the noninjurious application of a substance  
for its intended purpose in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or  
normally accepted or regulated practices.  
(g) "Department" means the department of environmental quality or a local health  
department that has been certified to exercise the pertinent authority under R 323.2209.  
(h) "Designated wellhead protection area" means a specific geographic area  
which is approved by the department as the surface and subsurface area surronding a  
water well or well field that supplies a public water system and through which  
contaminants are reasonably likely to move toward and reach the water well or well field.  
(i) "Discharge" means any direct or indirect discharge of any of the following  
into the groundwater or on the ground:  
(i) Waste.  
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(ii) Waste effluent.  
(iii) Wastewater.  
(iv) Pollutant.  
(v) Cooling Water.  
(vi) A combination of the items specified in paragraphs (i) to (v) of this  
subdivision.  
(j) "Discharger' means a person who directly or indirectly discharges any of the  
following into the groundwater or on the ground:  
(i) Waste.  
(ii) Waste Effluent.  
(iii) Wastewater.  
(iv) Pollutant.  
(v) Cooling water.  
(vi) A combination of the itmes specified in paragraphs (i) to (v) of this  
subdivision.  
For a treatment facility that has been or is being closed, the discharger is the person  
who formerly discharged at the site while using the facility or is the owner of the facility,  
or both.  
(k) "Domestic activity" means an activity which normally takes place as a result of  
occupying a household, but which does not include a commercial or industrial activity  
conducted in a household.  
(1) "Domestic equivalent activity" means an activity at a commercial, municipal,  
or industrial facility, such as lawn watering, that is comparable to a domestic activity.  
(m) "Effluent" means waste or wastewater during or subsequent to treatment  
but before discharge.  
(n) "Existing groundwater quality" means the concentration or level of a substance  
in groundwater within an aquifer and hydraulically connected aquifers at the site  
receiving the discharge whether or not it is impacted by human activity. A discharge or  
release by the applicant or a predecessor in interest of the applicant cannot be  
considered in determining existing groundwater quality.  
(o) "General purpose floor drain" means a point source, such as a pipe, conduit, or  
other conveyance, that originates in a structure and discharges, or is capable of  
discharging, a release defined by part 201 or waste or wastewater not authorized  
under these rules eigher directly or indirectly to the ground or groundwater.  
(p) "Groundwater" means water below the land surface in a zone of saturation.  
(q) "Hydrogeological report" means a document presenting and interpreting field  
information or published hydrogeologic information, or both, gathered at a location for  
the purpose of describing the existing hydrogeologic conditions and predicting the  
potential impact on waters of the state from a discharge at the location.  
(r) "Influent" means the wastewater received by or generated at a facility  
before treatment.  
(s) "Injurious" means any damage to or change in the condition of background  
groundwater quality that causes or may cause groundwater to no longerbe fit for 1 or  
more protected uses.  
(t) "Local health department" means a county, district, or city health department.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
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R 323.2202 Definitions; M to P.  
Rule 2202. As used in these rules:  
(a) "Monitoring well" means a well that is specifically designed and located to  
allow for the collection of hydrogeologic data and represent- ative samples in order to  
measure the impact of a discharge on groundwater.  
(b) "Noncontact cooling water" means water used for cooling that does not come  
into direct contact with any of the following:  
(i) Raw material.  
(ii) Intermediate product.  
(iii) By-product.  
(iv) Waste product.  
(v) Finished product.  
(c)  
"Nuisance conditions" means conditions that cause  
a
substantial  
unreasonable interference with another person(s) use or enjoyment of the person's  
property, including but not limited to, interference caused by any of the following:  
(i) Odors.  
(ii) Vectors.  
(iii) Noise.  
(iv) Pathogens.  
(v) Changes in aesthetic qualities of groundwater.  
(d) "Observation well" means a well that is specifically designed and located to  
allow for the determination of existing hydrogeological conditions.  
(e) "Parameters" means the specific characteristics describing the physical,  
chemical, biological, and radiological conditions of influent, effluent, or groundwater.  
(f) "Part 31" means part 31 of the act, water resources protection, being  
§§324.3101 to 324.3119 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(g) "Part 111" means part 111 of the act, hazardous waste management, being  
§§324.11101 to 324.11152 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(h) "Part 115" means part 115 of the act, solid waste management, being  
§§324.11501 to 324.11549 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(i) "Part 201" means part 201 of the act, environmental remediation, being  
§§324.20101 to 324.20141 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(j) "Part 213" means part 213 of the act, leaking underground storage tanks,  
being §§324.21301 to 324.21331 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(k) "Part 615" means part 615 of the act, supervisor of wells, being  
§§324.61501 to 324.61527 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(l) "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, association,  
governmental entity, or other legal entity.  
(m) "Pollutant" means any substance that may adversely affect a protected use of  
waters of the state.  
(n) "Protected uses" means uses of groundwater and interests related to  
groundwater quality specified in section 3109(1) of the act including all of the following  
uses:  
(i) Public health, safety, and welfare.  
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(ii) Domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, and other uses  
that are being made or may be made of groundwater.  
(iii) The value or utility of riparian lands.  
(iv) Livestock, wild animals, birds, fish, and aquatic life or plants or the growth or  
propagation of, and the value in, livestock, wild animals, birds, fish, and aquatic life or  
plants.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2203 Definitions; R to W.  
Rule 2203. As used in these rules:  
(a) "Remediation plan" means a remedial action plan approved by the  
department under part 115, 201, or 615, a corrective action plan prepared by the  
qualified consultant and certified professional under part 213, or a corrective action  
plan or closure plan approved by the department under part 111.  
(b) "Sanitary sewage" means treated or untreated wastes that contain only human  
metabolic wastes or wastes generated and discharged as a result of domestic or  
restaurant activities.  
(c) "Secondary containment facility" means a unit, other than the primary container  
in which polluting material is packaged or held, which is designed and constructed so  
that the polluting material cannot escape from the unit by gravity through sewers, drains,  
or other means directly or indirectly into a sewer system or to the waters of the state.  
(d) "Solum" means soil from the surface to a maximum depth of 60 inches.  
(e) "Standard" means an effluent or groundwater quality standard established  
under R 323.2222.  
(f) "Substance" means any of the following that may be injurious or that can be  
used as a parameter to determine water quality:  
(i) A naturally occurring or human-produced chemical.  
(ii) A solid, liquid, semisolid, dissolved solid or gaseous material.  
(iii) A virus or biological organism.  
(iv) A metabolite, degradation product, or waste product.  
(g) "Surface water" means all waters of the state excluding groundwater, but does  
not include drainageways and ponds used solely for wastewater conveyance,  
treatment, or control.  
(h) "Total inorganic nitrogen" means the total of ammonia plus nitrate plus nitrite  
expressed as nitrogen.  
(i) "Totals analysis" means the concentration of a substance in a medium such as  
soil or sediments based on the weight of the substance per dry weight of the medium and  
usually expressed in milligrams of the substance per kilogram dry weight of the  
medium.  
(j) "Unusable aquifer" means an aquifer that is not a usable aquifer.  
(k) "Usable aquifer" means an aquifer, or that portion of  
a
formation  
hydraulically connected to an aquifer, that is capable of providing water in sufficient  
quantity and of satisfactory quality to serve 1 or more protected uses. Usable aquifers do  
not include aquifers from which minerals, oil, or gas is extracted or fluids are injected  
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and regulated by part 615 or part 625 of the act, mineral wells, being §§324.62501 to  
324.62518 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(l) "Venting" means the recharging of surface water by groundwater.  
(m) "Unsaturated soil column" means the depth of unconsolidated material from  
the ground surface to the top of the highest seasonal groundwater table.  
(n) "Waste" means any waste, wastewater, waste effluent, or pollutant that is  
discharged into water, including any of the following:  
(i) Industrial, municipal, and agricultural waste.  
(ii) Dredged spoil.  
(iii) Solid waste.  
(iv) Incinerator residue.  
(v) Sewage.  
(vi) Garbage.  
(vii) Sewage sludge.  
(viii) Munitions.  
(ix) Chemical wastes.  
(x) Biological materials.  
(xi) Radioactive materials.  
(xii) Heat.  
(xiii) Wrecked or discarded equipment.  
(xiv) Rock.  
(xv) Sand.  
(xvi) Cellar dirt.  
(o)  
"Wastewater" means liquid waste discharged directly or indirectly into the  
waters of the state or onto the ground that results from industrial and commercial  
processes or municipal operations, including liquid or water- carried process waste,  
cooling and condensing waters, and sanitary sewage.  
(p) "Waters of the state" means any of the following:  
(i) Groundwater.  
(ii) Lakes, including the Great Lakes bordering the state.  
(iii) Rivers.  
(iv) Streams.  
(v) All other water courses and bodies of water within the jurisdiction of the state,  
including wetlands as defined by part 303 of the act, wetlands protection, being  
§§324.30301 to 324.30323 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(q) "Well" means a properly designed and constructed hydraulic structure that  
permits the measurement or withdrawal of groundwater from an aquifer.  
History: 1979 ACS 3, Eff. Aug. 30, 1980; 1999 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2204 Discharge requirements.  
Rule 2204.(1) A person may discharge provided the requirements of this rule are  
met.  
(2) To be authorized under this part, a person shall comply with the following  
discharge requirements unless otherwise specifically provided:  
(a) The discharge shall not be, or not be likely to become, injurious.  
Page 5  
(b) The discharge shall not cause runoff to, ponding on, or flooding of adjacent  
property, shall not cause erosion, and shall not cause nuisance conditions.  
(c) The point of discharge shall be located not less than 100 feet inside the  
boundary of the property where the discharge occurs, unless the discharge is authorized  
in R 323.2210, R 323.2211, or R 323.2213 or unless a lesser distance is specifically  
approved by the department in the authorization issued under these rules.  
(d) Except for a discharge authorized by R 323.2210, the discharge shall be  
isolated from water supply wells as follows:  
(i) For a discharge authorized by R 323.2211, R 323.2213, R 323.2215, or R  
323.2216, the discharge shall be a minimum of 200 feet from a type I or type IIa water  
supply well, 75 feet from a type IIb or III water supply well in accordance with Act No.  
399 of the Public Acts 1976, as amended, being §325.1001 et seq. of the Michigan  
Compiled Laws, and known as the safe drinking water act, and 50 feet from any  
domestic well in accordance with part 127 of Act No. 368 of the Public Acts of 1978, as  
amended, being §§333.12701 to 333.12715 of the Michigan Compiled Laws. The  
department may require a lesser or greater isolation distance in an individual case based  
on groundwater flow direction, volume, and constituents of contamination of the  
discharge; geological, surface, and other site conditions; and the degree of threat to the  
well or wells.  
(ii) For a discharge authorized by R 323.2218, the discharge shall be a minimum  
of 2,000 feet from a type I or type IIa water supply well, 800 feet from a type IIb or III  
water supply well in accordance with Act No. 399 of the Public Acts 1976, as amended,  
being §325.1001 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the safe  
drinking water act, and 300 feet from a domestic well in accordance with part 127 of Act  
No. 368 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended, being §§333.12701 to 333.12715 of the  
Michigan Compiled Laws. The department may authorize a lesser or greater isolation  
distance in an individual case based on groundwater flow direction, volume, and  
constituents of the discharge; geological, surface, and other site conditions; and the  
degree of threat to the well or wells.  
(e) The discharge shall be consistent with the requirements of R 323.1041 to R  
323.1117.  
(f) Except for a discharge authorized under R 323.2222(7)(b) or R  
323.2224(2), the discharge shall not create a facility as defined in part 201.A discharge  
authorized under R 323.2218 for which compliance is measured only in groundwater will  
not be considered a facility under this provision based on a measurement between the  
point of discharge and a point of compliance determined according to R 323.2224(1).  
(3) For a discharge to meet the requirements of section 3112(1) of the act,  
authorization must be granted in conformance with the applicable procedural  
requirements of R 323.2208 and a person shall be authorized by 1 or more of the  
following:  
(a) An exemption established by R 323.2210.  
(b) A permit by rule established in R 323.2211 or R 323.2213.  
(c) A general permit issued under R 323.2215.  
(d) A permit issued under R 323.2216 or R 323.2218.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
Page 6  
R 323.2205 Discharge prohibitions.  
Rule 2205.(1) A person shall not discharge without an authorization under R  
323.2204.  
(2) A person shall not discharge through a general purpose floor drain unless  
authorized by R 323.2210(v) or under R 323.2215 or R 323.2218.  
(3) A person shall not discharge wastewater originating from a structure within  
200 feet of an available public sanitary sewer system, except for a discharge of  
noncontact cooling water or a discharge from a groundwater remediation activity.  
For sanitary sewage, an available public sanitary sewer system is defined by section  
12751(a) of Act No. 368 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended, being R333.12751(a) of  
the Michigan Compiled Laws. For any other discharge, the department shall make a  
determination of availability based on the ability of the public sanitary sewer system  
to treat the wastewater and the costs associated with providing the treatment. Except for  
sanitary sewage, this subrule does not apply to an existing discharge authorized  
under the provisions of part 31 at the time of adoption of these rules.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2206 Applicant responsibilities; compliance schedule; standard for  
municipal wastewater treatment system; renewal, reissuance, or modification of  
permit establishing effluent or groundwater limitations.  
Rule 2206.(1) It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide the information  
described in these rules as required or necessary for the department to make a  
decision.  
(2) Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of an authorization to discharge  
granted under this part, failure to comply with an applicable monitoring or reporting  
requirement, or discharging in excess of an applicable standard is a violation of this  
part.  
(3) The department shall compile and keep on file a central quarterly listing of  
all dischargers who have exceeded a standard set by these rules for the concentration of  
a substance in the effluent or groundwater or who have failed to submit a complete  
compliance monitoring report as required by  
a permit. The listing shall identify the discharger and the substance or substances  
that exceeded the effluent or groundwater standard. In addition, the department shall  
also maintain records describing the actions taken by the department and the discharger  
in response to an effluent or groundwater standard being exceeded and the time  
necessary in each case to return the concentration of the substance in the effluent or  
groundwater to below the standard set by these rules. The listings and records are  
subject to Act No. 442 of the Public Acts of 1976, as amended, being §15.231 et seq.  
of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the freedom of information act.  
(4) If necessary to secure compliance with this part by a person discharging to  
groundwater on the effective date of these rules without causing impracticable  
disruption of the activity causing the discharge, the department may establish a schedule  
in a permit under which the discharger shall come into compliance with this part during  
Page 7  
the term of the permit. The department may not authorize a discharge under this  
subrule unless the discharge meets the requirements of R 323.2204(2)(a).  
(5) A wastewater treatment system shall not be subject to a more stringent standard  
than that contained in a permit during the depreciation or amortization of the facility  
for the purposes of section 167 or 169, or both, of the tax reform act of 1986, as amended,  
26 U.S.C. §167 or §169, or both, but not longer than 10 years from the date of permit  
issuance, if the treatment system meets all of the following conditions:  
(a) The discharge is appropriately characterized as described in R 323.2220.  
(b) The treatment system is constructed after the effective date of these rules to  
meet all applicable standards described in R 323.2222.  
(c) The discharge is permitted under R 323.2218.  
(d) The discharge does not create a facility as defined in part 201 at any time during  
the term described in this subrule.  
(6) In the case of effluent or groundwater limitations established under a permit  
issued by the department before the effective date of these rules, a permit may not be  
reissued or modified on the basis of a standard described in R 323.2222 that is less  
stringent than the comparable effluent or groundwater limitation in the previous  
permit.  
This restriction does not apply to a standard developed under R  
323.2222(2)(c). The department may grant an exception to this subrule, taking into  
account the state?s paramount concern for the protection of its natural resources or the  
public trust in those resources from pollution, impairment, or destruction, if 1 of the  
following provisions applies:  
(a) A less stringent standard is necessary because of events over which the  
discharger does not have control and for which there is no available remedy.  
(b) The discharger has installed the treatment facilities required to meet the  
limitation in the previous permit and has properly operated and maintained the  
facilities, but has been unable to achieve the previous limitation. In this situation, the  
reissued or modified permit shall contain a standard that reflects the level of pollutant  
control actually achieved if the standard is not less stringent than would otherwise be  
required by R 323.2222.  
(c) The discharger demonstrates, and the department finds, that the limitation in  
the prior permit is not economically achievable. In making this demonstration, the  
discharger shall demonstrate that the cost of maintaining treatment capability and  
controls in place is not a feasible and prudent alternative to the use of the standard  
specified in R 323.2222. The department shall specifically solicit public comments on  
the demonstration in the public notice accompanying the proposed permit reissuance or  
modification.  
(d) The standard specified in R 323.2222 is less stringent than the prior limitation  
because the risk posed by the substance has been reevaluated based on new scientific  
information.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2207 Designated wellhead protection area.  
Rule 2207.(1) For a discharge in a designated wellhead protection area, the  
department shall do both of the following:  
Page 8  
(a) Notify a person seeking authorization under R 323.2211 to R 323.2218 that the  
proposed discharge is in a designated wellhead protection area.  
(b) Notify the pertinent public water supply system manager and local health  
department that a discharge proposed under R 323.2211 to R 323.2218 is in a designated  
wellhead protection area.  
(2) A discharger in a designated wellhead protection area shall do both of the  
following:  
(a) Provide, to the public water supply system manager, a copy of each monitoring  
report provided to the department under R 323.2225 or R 323.2227.  
(b) Notify the pertinent public water supply system manager when a discharge  
has exceeded an applicable standard. The notification shall be made within 48 hours  
of a determination by the discharger that an applicable standard has been exceeded.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2208 Procedural requirements for authorization to discharge.  
Rule 2208.(1) The procedural requirements for the issuance of wastewater  
discharge permits contained in part 21 of the rules implementing part 31 pertaining to  
a state permit, being R 323.2101 to R 323.2192, apply to an authorization to discharge  
as specified in this rule.  
(2) For an authorization provided under R 323.2210, the requirements  
pertaining to a state permit contained in R 323.2102 to 323.2105, R 323.2127, R  
323.2149, R 323.2155, and R 323.2160 apply unless the requirements are inconsistent  
with the terms of this part.  
(3) For an authorization provided under R 323.2211 and R 323.2213, the  
requirements pertaining to a state permit contained in R 323.2102 to R 323.2105, R  
323.2114, R 323.2127, R 323.2149, R 323.2151, R 323.2155, and R 323.2169 apply  
unless the requirements are inconsistent with the terms of this part.  
(4) For an authorization provided under R 323.2215, the requirements  
pertaining to a state permit contained in R 323.2102 to R 323.2105, R 323.2115, R  
323.2117 to R 323.2119, R 323.2121, R 323.2122, R 323.2126, R 323.2127, R  
323.2130, R 323.2131, R 323.2149, R 323.2150, R 323.2155, R 323.2159, R  
323.2160, and R 323.2162 to R 323.2186 and the requirements pertaining to a permit  
contained in R 323.2191 and R 323.2192 apply unless the requirements are inconsistent  
with the terms of this part.  
(5) For an authorization provided under R 323.2216, requirements pertaining  
to a state permit contained in R 323.2102 to R 323.2105, R 323.2106, R 323.2108, R  
323.2112, R 323.2114, R 323.2115, R 323.2117, R 323.2124, R 323.2126, R  
323.2127, R 323.2130, R 323.2131, R 323.2145 to R 323.2147, R 323.2149 to R  
323.2151, R 323.2155, R 323.2159, R 323.2160, and R 323.2162 to R 323.2186 apply  
unless the requirements are inconsistent with the terms of this part.  
(6) For an authorization provided under R 323.2218, the requirements  
pertaining to a state permit contained in R 323.2102 to R 323.2105, R 323.2106, R  
323.2108, R 323.2112, R 323.2114, R 323.2115, R 323.2117, R 323.2119, R  
323.2121, R 323.2122, R 323.2124, R 323.2126, R 323.2127, R 323.2130, R  
323.2131, R 323.2145 to R 323.2147, R 323.2149 to R 323.2151, R 323.2155, R  
Page 9  
323.2159, R 323.2160, and R 323.2162 to R 323.2186 apply unless the requirements are  
inconsistent with the terms of this part.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2209 Department authorization of local health department to conduct  
certain activities.  
Rule 2209.(1) The department may authorize a local health department to conduct  
the following activities for the department if the conditions in subrule (2) of this rule  
are met:  
(a) Inspect facilities authorized to discharge under this part or facilities  
discharging in violation of this part and notify the owner or operator of the facility of  
violations of this part.  
(b) Recommend to the department a decision on an authorization described in R  
323.2215 and R 323.2216. Before making the recommendation, the local health  
department shall follow the procedures described in this part.  
(2) To be authorized for the activities described in subrule (1) of this rule, a local  
health department shall be in compliance with all of the following provisions:  
(a) Possess adequate legal authority to conduct the activities authorized.  
(b) Possess sufficient funding and adequately trained and experienced staff, as  
determined by the department, to fully and competently perform the activities to be  
authorized.  
(c) Conduct the activities according to the terms and conditions of this part.  
(3) The department shall authorize a local health department to conduct activities  
under this rule pursuant to all of the following procedures:  
(a) To request authorization, a local health department shall provide information  
determined necessary, and in a manner and at a time specified, by the department. In  
requesting authorization, the local health department may apply to conduct some or all  
activities described in subrule (1)(a) of this rule or subrule (1)(b) of this rule, or both.  
(b) If the local health department meets the qualifications in subrule (2) of this rule,  
then the department shall issue a document describing the activities authorized and  
the terms and conditions of the authorization.  
(c) The department shall provide funds, as may be available through monies  
appropriated for this purpose by the legislature, to assist a local health department in  
conducting the activities authorized under this rule.  
(d) The department may revoke the authority issued under this rule if a local  
health department fails to meet the conditions described in subrule (2) of this rule.  
(e) A local health department may relinquish authority granted by the  
department under this rule by written notice to the department.  
(4) The department may continue to exercise all of its authority granted by the act  
and this part notwithstanding a grant of authority to a local health department under  
this rule.  
(5) The department shall provide assistance and training to local health  
departments authorized under this rule in order to ensure effective and consistent  
implementation of this part.  
Page 10  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2210 Items permitted to be discharged without permit.  
Rule 2210. A person may discharge the following without a permit that would  
otherwise be required by part 31 if the discharge meets the requirements of R  
323.2204:  
(a) Sanitary sewage in either of the following circumstances if the sanitary  
sewage is not mixed with other waste:  
(i) The discharge is less than 1,000 gallons per day and the disposal system is  
approved by the county, district, or city health department that has jurisdiction in  
accordance with either the requirements of the local sanitary code or the provisions  
of the publication entitled “Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage Disposal,”  
April 1994. Copies of the publication may be obtained without charge at the time of  
adoption of these rules from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality,  
Drinking Water and Radiological Protection Division, P.O. Box 30630, Lansing,  
Michigan 48909.  
(ii) The discharge is less than 6,000 gallons per day, the disposal system is designed  
and constructed in accordance with the provisions of the publication entitled  
Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage Disposal,” April 1994, and the system is  
approved by the county, district, or city health department that has jurisdiction.  
Copies of the publication may be obtained without charge at the time of adoption of  
these rules from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Drinking Water  
and Radiological Protection Division, P.O. Box 30630, Lansing, Michigan 48909.  
(b) Controlled application of any of the following:  
(i) An authorized substance to suppress dust. The following are authorized  
substances:  
(A) Water.  
(B) Calcium chloride.  
(C) Lignosulfate products.  
(D) Emulsified asphalt or resin stabilizers.  
(E) Vegetable by-products.  
(ii) A deicing substance.  
(iii)A substance for a natural resource or right-of-way maintenance program.  
(iv) A substance for a domestic activity.  
(v) A commercially manufactured pesticide or fertilizer for its intended use.  
(c) Stormwater, other than from a secondary containment facility, when  
discharged through surface infiltration.  
(d) Stormwater from a secondary containment facility that does not contain leaks or  
spills if the stormwater is inspected to ensure it meets the standards established in R  
323.2222.  
(e) Water from a well used temporarily for dewatering at a construction  
site if the water pumped does not create a site of environmental contamination  
under part 201.  
(f) A discharge from an animal feeding operation that has less than 5,000 animal  
units if the discharge is determined by the director of the department of agriculture or his  
or her designated representative, to be in accordance with generally accepted  
Page 11  
agricultural and management practices, as defined in Act No.93 of the Public Acts of  
1981, as amended, being §§286.471 to 286.474 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and  
known as the Michigan right to farm act. For purposes of this rule, 5,000 animal units  
is equal to 5,000 head of slaughter or feeder cattle, 3,500 mature dairy cattle, 12,500  
swine weighing more than 25 kilograms or approximately 55 pounds, 50,000 sheep or  
lambs, 2,500 horses, 275,000 turkeys, 150,000 laying hens or broilers, or 25,000 ducks.  
An animal feeding operation is a lot or facility, or series of lots or facilities under 1  
ownership which are adjacent to one another or which use a common area or system for  
the disposal of wastes, that meets both of the following conditions:  
(i) Animals, other than aquatic animals, have been, are, or will be stabled or  
confined and fed or maintained for a total of 45 calendar days or more in any 12-month  
period.  
(ii) Crops, vegetation, forage growth, or postharvest residues are not sustained in  
the normal growing season over the portion of the lot or facility where animals are  
confined.  
(g) Less than 50 gallons of wastewater per day from a commercial animal care  
facility.  
(h) Observation or monitoring well development or evacuation water.  
(i) Potable water used for a domestic or domestic equivalent activities other than  
sanitary sewage disposal.  
(j) Step test or pump test water from any of the following:  
(i) A potable well or well used to develop a potable water supply.  
(ii) A well producing water that meets state or federal criteria for use as potable  
water.  
(iii) A test well where the quality of the test well discharge water is equal to or  
better than the background groundwater quality of the aquifer receiving the discharge.  
(k) Exfiltration from sanitary sewer collection systems.  
(l) Wastewater from a heat pump that has a heat exchange capacity of 300,000  
Btu per hour or less if there is no chemical additive to the system.  
(m) Wastewater from a portable power washer when used in either of the  
following circumstances:  
(i) By the occupant of a household for washing buildings, vehicles, or other  
surfaces associated with the domestic occupation of the household.  
(ii) By a commercial operator or in a commercial or industrial setting to remove  
nonpolluting substances from vehicles or surfaces when no additives are used and the  
washing process does not add significant pollutants to the water.  
(n) Swimming pool drainage and backwash water discharged in accordance with  
sections 12521 to 12534 of Act No. 368 of the Public Acts of 1978, as amended, being  
§§333.12521 to 333.12534 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(o) Water treatment filter backwash water if disposal is in accordance with plans  
and specifications approved by the department under Act No. 399 of the Public Acts of  
1976, as amended, being §325.1001 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known  
as the safe drinking water act.  
(p) Carpet cleaning wastewater discharged by a noncommercial operator or by a  
commercial operator at a site receiving wastewater from not more than 1 location where  
carpet cleaning has occurred.  
Page 12  
(q) Less than 10,000 gallons per day of noncontact cooling water that does not  
contain additives if the source of the cooling water is any of the following:  
(i) A municipal water supply.  
(ii) A water supply meeting state or federal criteria for use as potable water.  
(iii) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(iv) Another source approved by the department.  
(r) Land application of process sludge from a wastewater treatment facility  
treating sanitary sewage when applied in accordance with applicable state and federal  
law.  
(s) Land application of process sludge from an industrial or commercial  
wastewater treatment facility when authorized under R 299.4101 to R 299.4922, the  
administrative rules implementing part 115.  
(t) Placement of other solid waste on the ground when authorized under part 115.  
This provision does not apply to the disposal of wastewater generated through the  
operation of a facility licensed under part 115.  
(u) Wastewater associated with an environmental response activity described  
in any of the following paragraphs if the discharge is to the plume of groundwater  
contamination, including an area 100 feet hydraulically upgradient of the edge of the  
plume, and any additive used in the treatment process that is not part of the  
contamination plume meets the standards of R 323.2222:  
(i) A pump test discharge that does not change the physical dimensions of the  
plume in groundwater or, if the dimensions are changed, the changes are accounted for  
in the design of the final groundwater remediation plan.  
(ii) A remedial investigation, feasibility study, or remedial action discharge that  
is at or below the residential criteria authorized by section 20101a(1)(a) of the act, if  
applicable, or section 21304(a) of the act, if applicable.  
(iii) A discharge for a remedial investigation, feasibility study, or remedial  
action above the residential criteria authorized by section 20101a(1)(a) of the act, if  
applicable, or section 21304(a) of the act, if applicable, if a remediation investigation,  
feasibility study, or remediation plan has been approved by the department division  
that has compliance oversight. The remediation plan shall indicate that the treatment  
system is designed and will be operated so that contaminated groundwater will  
eventually meet the appropriate land use-based cleanup criteria authorized by  
section 20120a(1)(a) to (d) of the act, if applicable, or section 21304(a) of the act, if  
applicable.  
(v) Precipitation and snow melt drainage off vehicles discharged through a general  
purpose floor drain in a parking structure in which maintenance activities do not  
occur.  
(w) A discharge that has been specifically authorized by the department under a  
permit if the permit was not issued under this part.  
(x) A discharge that occurs as the result of placing waste materials on the ground  
in compliance with a designation of inertness issued under part 115 or leaving  
contaminated materials in place in compliance with part 201 or 213.  
(y) A discharge that has been determined by the department to have an  
insignificant potential to be injurious based on volume and constituents. In making the  
determination, the department shall follow the public notice and comment procedures  
Page 13  
of R 323.2117 and R 323.2119. The department may establish criteria, limitations,  
or conditions applicable to the discharge to ensure that it meets the terms of this  
subdivision.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2211 Permit by rule; notification.  
Rule 2211. A person may discharge any of the following if the requirements of R  
323.2204 and R 323.2212 are met:  
(a) Sanitary sewage if the volume of the septic tank or tanks is 6,000 gallons or  
more or if the flow is more than 6,000 gallons per day, but less than 10,000 gallons per  
day if the following provisions are complied with, if applicable:  
(i) The sanitary sewage is not mixed with other wastes.  
(ii) The disposal system is designed and constructed in accordance with the  
provisions of the publication entitled "Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage  
Disposal," April 1994, and the system is approved by the county, district, or city  
health department that has jurisdiction. Copies of the publication may be obtained  
without charge at the time of adoption of these rules from the Michigan Department of  
Environmental Quality, Drinking Water and Radiological Protection Division, P.O Box  
30630, Lansing, Michigan 48909.  
(iii) For a disposal system constructed, reconstructed, or expanded after adoption of  
these rules, the discharge is monitored by a flow measurement device. The discharger  
shall record the average daily flow on a weekly basis and the total flow annually in a log  
that shall be available for review upon request by the department or the county, district,  
or city health department that has jurisdiction. A report of the average daily flows and  
annual total flow shall be submitted to the department by January 31 of each year for the  
preceding calendar year.  
(b) Less than 500 gallons per day of wastewater from a laundromat which is open to  
the general public and which does not contain a dry cleaning operation if all of the  
following requirements are met:  
(i) The wastewater is discharged from a system that has a minimum of 2 1, 000-  
gallon septic tanks in series followed by disposal to a tile field.  
(ii) The tanks are pumped when the sludge level reaches 25% of the tank volume.  
(iii) An operational lint filter is maintained on the laundry wastewater discharge  
line to the system.  
(iv) The tile field has been designed and constructed in accordance with the  
provisions of the publication entitled "Michigan Criteria for Subsurface Sewage  
Disposal," April 1994, and is approved by the local county, district, or city health  
department that has jurisdiction or the department. Copies of the publication may be  
obtained without charge at the time of adoption of these rules from the Michigan  
Department of Environmental Quality, Drinking Water and Radiological Protection  
Division, P.O. Box 30630, Lansing, Michigan 48909.  
(v) The sanitary sewage generated at the facility is routed to the same septic tank  
as the laundry waste.  
(vi) The septic tank is equipped with an effluent filter.  
Page 14  
(c) More than 10,000 gallons per day of noncontact cooling water if it does not  
contain an additive and the source of the cooling water is any of the following:  
(i) A municipal water supply.  
(ii) A water supply meeting state or federal criteria for use as potable water.  
(iii) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(iv) Another source of water approved by the department as meeting the  
conditions of R 323.2204.  
(d) Less than 50,000 gallons per day of fruit and vegetable washwater if the  
following provisions are met, if applicable:  
(i) The source of the water is any of the following:  
(A) A municipal water supply.  
(B) A water supply meeting state or federal criteria for use as potable water.  
(C) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(D) Another source of water approved by the department as meeting the  
conditions of R 323.2204.  
(ii) If the wastewater contains an additive, the department is notified of the additive  
in the notification required in R 323.2212 and the discharge does not cause the  
groundwater to exceed the standard of R 323.2222 for the additive.  
(e) Wastewater from a portable power washer used by a commercial operator or in  
a commercial or industrial setting whether or not occurring within 100 feet of the  
property boundary if the following requirements are met, as applicable:  
(i) The source of the water is any of the following:  
(A) A municipal water supply.  
(B) A water supply meeting state or federal criteria for use as potable water.  
(C) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(D) Another source of water approved by the department as meeting the  
conditions of R 323.2204.  
(ii) If other than a household soap or detergent readily available to the consumer is  
used as an additive, the additive is used for its intended purpose and according to  
manufacturer’s recommendations and label directions.  
(iii) Washing is limited to the removal of dirt and grime from the exterior of a  
vehicle, equipment, or stationary source. A vehicle’s exterior does not include its  
undercarriage. Dirt and grime does not include a substance that was contained or  
transported in the vehicle as product or waste material.  
(iv) The discharge does not cause runoff of wastewater or the deposition of waste  
materials onto adjacent properties.  
(v) The discharge does not cause the groundwater to exceed a standard specified  
in R 323.2222.  
(vi) The discharge is limited to 1,000 gallons of wastewater per month per acre of  
area in which the discharge occurs.  
(vii) If the discharger is a commercial operator who discharges at various locations,  
a log is kept of discharges for a period of 3 years from the date of the discharge. The log  
shall include the date, location, and additive used for each discharge and the item  
washed. The log shall be readily available for inspection and copying at any  
reasonable time by a peace officer or, upon presentation of credentials, an authorized  
Page 15  
representative of the department or city, county, or district health department that has  
jurisdiction.  
(f) Pump test water associated with environmental remediation that is discharged  
outside the plume of contamination if the discharge meets the standards of R  
323.2222.  
(g) Water that results from the hydrostatic testing or flushing of a new pipeline or  
pressure testing of a new tank if both of the following provisions have been met:  
(i) An additive has not been used.  
(ii) The source of the washwater is any of the following:  
(A) A municipal water supply.  
(B) Another water supply that meets state or federal criteria for use as potable  
water.  
(C) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(D) Another source of water approved by the department as meeting the  
conditions of R 323.2204.  
(h) More than 50, but less than 1,000, gallons per day of wastewater from a  
commercial animal care facility if all of the following provisions have been met:  
(i) The source of the water is any of the following:  
(A) A municipal water supply.  
(B) Another water supply that meets state or federal criteria for use as potable  
water.  
(C) A source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(D) Another source of water approved by the department as meeting the  
conditions of R 323.2204.  
(ii) The department is notified of any additive in the notification required by R  
323.2212 and the discharge does not cause the groundwater to exceed the standard  
established by R 323.2222 for the additive.  
(iii)The discharge does not occur within 200 feet of a surface water body.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2212 Discharge notification.  
Rule 2212.(1) A person is authorized to discharge under R 323.2211 if the  
department is notified of the discharge under this rule.  
(2) A person shall notify the department under this rule at the following times:  
(a) Before the discharge.  
(b) When there is a change in the information required in the notification form  
described in subrule (3) of this rule.  
(c) Five years from the date of the previous notification if the discharge is  
continuing.  
(3) A person shall provide notice on a form approved by the department. At a  
minimum, the notice shall contain all of the following information:  
(a) Date of the notification.  
(b) Facility name and address.  
(c) The discharge address, if different from the facility, and the location  
identified by county, section, township, and range.  
Page 16  
(d) Authorized contact person's name, address, and telephone number.  
(e) The permit or exemption number and issuance date for any groundwater  
discharge permit or exemption previously issued to the discharger.  
(f) The type of wastewater discharged and a description of the discharge.  
(g) For discharges authorized by R 323.2211(f) and R 323.2213(5), a  
description of the treatment system designed to meet the standards of R 323.2222.  
(h) Standard industrial classification (SIC) code.  
(i) Method of wastewater disposal, such as irrigation or seepage lagoon.  
(j) Any additive and the amount used.  
(k) Discharge volume or application rate in appropriate units.  
(l) Dates of discharge and schedule of discharge, as appropriate.  
(m) Two legible site maps drawn to scale that have a north orientation arrow. Site  
map 1 shall indicate the discharge location in relation to property boundaries on a  
topographic map. The township and county name in which the discharge area is located  
shall be included on site map 1. Site map 2 shall indicate the discharge area and the  
distance from property boundaries. Major roads and streets shall be included on all  
site maps.  
(n) Name, address, and telephone number of the owner of the property where the  
discharge is to occur if the owner is other than the discharger.  
(o) If the discharge is to property owned by a person other than the discharger, a  
written authorization to discharge signed by the property owner.  
(p) A determination of whether the discharge will occur within 1/4 mile of a known  
site of groundwater contamination, other than for a remedial action for which the  
notification form is being submitted, and an evaluation of whether the discharge will  
impact the existing plume of contamination at the site.  
(q) Signature and certification by the discharger or a person authorized to act for  
the discharger, as described in R 323.2114, that the discharger has identified and  
considered steps to avoid or minimize the use and discharge of pollutants, that all  
information submitted is true, accurate, and complete, and that the discharge meets the  
requirements of this part.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2213 Permit by rule authorizing discharge upon department  
certification.  
Rule 2213.(1) Wastewater described in this rule may be discharged if the  
requirements of R 323.2204 and R 323.2214 are met.  
(2) A person may discharge less than 10,000 gallons per day of noncontact cooling  
water that contains an additive if the department is notified of the additive in the  
notification required by R 323.2212 and the discharge does not cause the groundwater  
to exceed the standard of R 323.2222 for the additive.  
(3) A person may discharge less than 10,000 gallons per day of egg-washing facility  
wastewater if all of the following provisions are satisfied:  
(a) The source of the water is any of the following:  
(i) A municipal water supply.  
Page 17  
(ii) A water supply meeting state or federal criteria for use as potable water.  
(iii) Another source of water meeting the standards of R 323.2222.  
(iv) Another source of water approved by the department.  
(b) If the wastewater contains an additive, the department is notified of the additive  
in the notification required by R 323.2212 and the discharge does not cause the  
groundwater to exceed the standard established by R 323.2222 for the additive.  
(c) The discharger minimizes the discharge of proteinaceous matter, such as egg  
yolks, and other wastes to the groundwater to control odors and prevent nuisance  
conditions.  
(4) A person may discharge cooling water if all of the following provisions  
are satisfied:  
(a) The discharge is less than 5,000 gallons per day.  
(b) If the wastewater contains an additive, the department is notified of the additive  
in the notification required by R 323.2212 and the discharge does not cause the  
groundwater to exceed the standard established by R 323.2222 for the additive.  
(c) The discharger submits, as part of the notification required by R 323.2212,  
wastewater characterization which demonstrates that the discharge will not exceed  
standards of R 323.2222.  
(d) The material cooled does not vary substantially from that used in providing  
the wastewater characterization required by subdivision (c) of this subrule.  
(e) The discharger characterizes the wastewater annually and submits records of  
that annual characterization in the notification required by R 323.2212(2)(c).  
(5) A person may discharge wastewater which is associated with a  
department- approved groundwater remediation and which is discharged outside the  
plume of contamination if all of the following provisions are satisfied:  
(a) If the discharge is associated with the investigative phase of a remediation or  
active groundwater remediation, the discharge is conducted in compliance with all  
applicable parts of the act.  
(b) The discharge is treated to meet the standards of R 323.2222. The discharger  
shall submit to the department a description of how the proposed treatment system will  
achieve the standards of R 323.2222.  
(c) The remedial action shall include a groundwater extraction system designed  
and operated to prevent any portion of the plume above approved cleanup criteria  
from migrating beyond an approved zone of influence. The approval for the location of  
the zone of influence is the responsibility of the department division that has compliance  
oversight.  
(d) The discharger provides an accurate and complete verification at the time of  
notification, as required in R 323.2214, that the discharge meets the requirements of part  
31, this part, and part 111, 115, 201, 213, or 615, as applicable. Verification shall be  
provided in the form of a memorandum from the chief, or his or her designated  
representative, of the department division responsible for compliance oversight of the  
remediation.  
(e) A performance monitoring plan shall be included in the remediation plan  
submitted to the department division responsible for compliance oversight at the  
facility. The plan shall include the following:  
Page 18  
(i) Groundwater monitoring to verify that the standards of R 323.2222 are being  
met in groundwater. The monitoring shall meet the requirement of R 323.2224(1)(c).  
(ii) At least twice weekly remediation system effluent monitoring capable of  
verifying that the treatment system can comply with the standards of R 323.2222. After  
demonstrating for not less than 90 days that the treatment system is capable of  
meeting the standards of R 323.2222, the discharger may apply to the department  
division responsible for compliance oversight for a reduced frequency of effluent  
monitoring until the remediation is completed according to the act.  
(f) Effluent and groundwater sampling required to verify compliance with this  
subrule shall be collected and analyzed at a frequency indicated in the performance  
monitoring plan. The frequency of monitoring and reporting must be approved by the  
department division responsible for compliance oversight, but shall not be less than once  
per year.  
(g) Performance monitoring data shall be submitted to the department division  
responsible for compliance oversight.  
(h) The discharger shall, at all times, maintain in good working order all treatment  
or control facilities or systems installed or used by the discharger to achieve  
compliance with the terms and conditions of this rule. If the discharger is unable to  
maintain compliance with the terms and conditions of this rule, then the discharger  
shall provide the notification and conduct the compliance activities described in R  
323.2227.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2214 Conditions for department certification.  
Rule 2214.(1) A discharge is authorized under R 323.2213 if the department is  
notified of the discharge under R 323.2212.  
(2) For a discharge authorized by R 323.2213(5), the following information,  
in addition to the information required by subrule (1) of this rule, shall be provided:  
(a) Site map 1, required in R 323.2212(3)(m), shall include a description of the  
location of drinking water wells that is adequate to identify each water supply  
formation within 1/2 mile of the discharge. A copy of the well logs for each drinking  
water well included on the map shall also be provided with the notification.  
(b) Site map 2 required in R 323.2212(3)(m) shall include all of the following  
information:  
(i) Groundwater flow direction.  
(ii) Extent of contamination plume.  
(iii) Calculated capture zone.  
(iv) Location of the groundwater extraction and interception system.  
(v) Location of all observation and monitoring wells.  
(vi) A description of the treatment system indicating how it will produce an  
effluent that will meet the standards of R 323.2222.  
(3) In order to discharge, a person must receive a certification from the department  
which verifies that the discharge is authorized under this part. Within 60 calendar days of  
receiving a complete notification form required by this rule, the department shall issue a  
Page 19  
certification or indicate why the discharger is not authorized to discharge under this  
rule.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2215 General permit.  
Rule 2215.(1) Upon a determination by the department that a certain category  
of discharges is appropriately and adequately controlled by a general permit, the  
department may issue a general permit under this rule.  
(2) A discharge covered by a general permit issued under this rule shall meet all of  
the following conditions:  
(a) Meet the conditions in R 323.2204(2).  
(b) Involve the same or substantially similar types of operations.  
(c) Be of the same type of wastes.  
(d) Require the same effluent limitations or operating conditions.  
(e) Require the same or similar monitoring and reporting.  
(3) To qualify for a certificate of coverage for a general permit issued pursuant to  
this rule, an applicant shall certify that the applicant has identified and considered  
steps to minimize the use and discharge of pollutants authorized to be discharged by  
the general permit.  
(4) The department shall periodically publish the names of persons who have  
received a certificate of coverage for a general permit issued under this rule.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2216 Permits for specific discharges.  
Rule 2216.(1) A wastewater described in this rule may be discharged under a  
permit issued by the department in compliance with R 323.2217 if the conditions of  
R 323.2204 are met.  
(2) A person may discharge less than 20,000 gallons per day of sanitary sewage  
that has been treated by a system described in subdivision (a) or (b) of this subrule if the  
treatment system is operated to achieve optimum treat- ment efficiencies for the specified  
design as follows:  
(a) The discharge receives treatment by a constructed wetland and associated  
treatment system that meets all of the following requirements:  
(i) A minimum of 2 septic tanks installed in series precedes the constructed  
wetland. The septic tanks shall have a minimum combined volume of 2 times the daily  
design flow. The outfall to the constructed wetland shall be equipped with a septic  
tank effluent filter.  
(ii) The system shall have a treatment process to enhance nitrification prior to  
discharge to the constructed wetland.  
(iii) If the discharge is expected to have high concentrations of oil and grease, such  
as sanitary sewage from a food service establishment, then the discharge shall be treated  
to remove oil and grease.  
Page 20  
(iv) The system shall have a minimum of 2 wetland cells to allow for isolation  
or maintenance of individual cells.  
(v) Each wetland cell shall have an aspect ratio, which is length to width ratio,  
of between 2:1 and 4:1.  
(vi) The constructed wetland shall have a composite bottom liner in compliance  
with R 323.2237. The bottom of the wetland cell shall be constructed to be level.  
(vii) The wetland cell filter media shall consist of ½-inch to 1-inch washed  
gravel with 100% passing the 1.0-inch sieve and a maximum of 3% passing the 1/2-  
inch sieve.  
(viii)The filter media shall not be less than 18 inches or more than 30 inches in  
depth.  
(ix) The effective water depth in the wetland cell shall be maintained between a  
range of 2 to 6 inches below the filter media surface.  
(x) The constructed wetland shall be insulated with at least 6 inches of mulch or  
other comparable substitute and designed to protect against freezing.  
(xi) The filter surface area hydraulic loading rate is not more than 1.2 gallons per  
square foot per day.  
(xii) The design retention time shall not be less than 7 calendar days.  
(xiii)Indigenous or sterile wetland vegetation, such as bulrushes, common reeds,  
and cattails, shall be planted on a 1-foot grid across each wetland cell.  
(xiv) Wetland vegetation shall be cultivated to maximize the rooted depth  
throughout the gravel filter media.  
(xv) The system shall have the capability to recirculate effluent back into the  
influent end of the system when additional flow is needed into the system.  
(xvi) The wetland cell shall discharge to a tile field designed and constructed in  
accordance with the provisions of the publication entitled Michigan Criteria for  
Subsurface Sewage Disposal,” April 1994, and approved by the county, district, or city  
health department that has jurisdiction. Copies of the criteria may be obtained without  
charge at the time of adoption of these rules from the Michigan Department of  
Environmental Quality, Drinking Water and Radiological Protection Division, P.O. Box  
30630, Lansing, Michigan 48909. If the county, district, or city health department that  
has jurisdiction chooses not to review the tile field design, then the department shall  
review and approve the system under this subrule.  
(b) The discharge is treated by an alternative treatment system or combination  
of systems that is determined by the department to provide a similar quality effluent to  
the treatment system specified in subdivision (a) of this subrule.  
(c) For a treatment system described in subdivision (a) or (b) of this subrule, if  
flow is more than 10,000 gallons per day, then the effluent shall be monitored in  
accordance with R 323.2232(a),(b),(e), and (f).  
(3) A person may discharge less than 50,000 gallons per day of sanitary sewage if  
all of the following provisions are satisfied:  
(a) The sanitary sewage is not mixed with other waste.  
(b)  
323.2204(2)(d)(ii).  
(c) The sanitary sewage is treated by a treatment system in accordance with R  
323.2230 and R 323.2231.  
The discharge meets the isolation distance requirements specified in R  
Page 21  
(d)  
The discharge is limited and monitored in accordance with the  
requirements of R 323.2232.  
(4) A person may discharge less than 20,000 gallons per day of laundromat  
wastewater if the laundromat is open to the general public, does not contain a dry  
cleaning operation, and all of the following requirements are met:  
(a)  
The discharge is treated by a lagoon treatment system that meets the  
requirements of R 323.2231(1)(a) to (e).  
(b) The wastewater treatment system is operated in accordance with R  
323.2231(1)(g) to (j) and maintained in accordance with R 323.2231(k).  
(c) Disposal is by means of low-rate application in accordance with R 323.2233  
and utilizing spray irrigation under pressure to enhance volatilization of organic  
constituents in the discharge.  
(d) The discharge limitations and monitoring requirements are as follows:  
(i) Flow shall be measured on a daily basis.  
(ii) The discharge will be monitored on a annual basis for all of the following:  
(A) The pH.  
(B) Chemical oxygen demand (COD).  
(C) Conductivity.  
(D) Volatile organics using environmental protection agency (EPA) test method  
8260 or other method approved by the department for this purpose.  
(E) Aluminum.  
(F) Arsenic.  
(G) Cadmium.  
(H) Total chromium.  
(I) Hexavalent chromium.  
(J) Copper.  
(K) Lead.  
(L) Nickel.  
(M) Zinc.  
(N) Total phosphorus.  
(O) Ammonia nitrogen.  
(P) Nitrate nitrogen.  
(Q) Nitrite nitrogen.  
(R) Sodium.  
(S) Chloride.  
(T) Potassium.  
EPA test method 8260 is adopted by reference in these rules and is contained in the  
EPA document entitled “Test Methods for the Evaluation of Solid Waste, Physical-  
Chemical Methods,” SW-846, 3rd Edition, September 1986, as updated through the  
effective date of these rules. SW-846 is available for inspection at the Lansing  
office of the department of environmental quality, waste management division. The  
document and updates may be purchased from the United States Government Printing  
Office, Superintendent of Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania  
15250-7954, or the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Waste  
Management Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time  
of adoption of these rules of $319.00, plus shipping and handling.  
Page 22  
(iii) The application rate shall be measured in inches per day and in inches per  
week and recorded twice per month. The application rate shall not be more than 1 inch  
per day or 3 inches per week.  
(e) The discharger shall report monitoring results in compliance with R 323.2225.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2217 Procedures applicable to permit issued under R 323.2216.  
Rule 2217.(1) The department shall issue a permit for a discharge described in  
R 323.2216 under the terms of R 323.2208 and this rule.  
(2) An application for a discharge permit to be issued under this rule shall be  
made on a form determined by the department. An application under this rule shall be  
administratively complete before it is considered by the department for decision. An  
administratively complete application shall consist of all of the following:  
(a) Sufficient information for the department to determine whether the  
requirements of R 323.2216 are met.  
(b) A demonstration that the applicant has provided notice of the proposed  
discharge consisting of a copy of the notice which contains, at a minimum, all of the  
following information:  
(i) The name and address of the applicant.  
(ii) A concise description of the applicant’s activities and operations that result in  
the discharge identified in the application.  
(iii) The location of the proposed or existing discharge identified in the application.  
(iv) The date upon which the applicant will apply to the department for a permit  
under this part. The date shall not be later than 30 calendar days after the date of the  
notice.  
(v) A statement that interested parties can provide comments on the application  
to the department by sending material to the address, and in the manner, indicated in the  
form described in this subrule. The statement will further provide that information  
received by the department within 20 calendar days of the indicated application date  
will be considered by the department in deciding upon the application.  
(c) A certification that the applicant has identified and considered steps to avoid or  
minimize the use and discharge of pollutants authorized to be discharged by the permit  
issued under R 323.2216.  
(3) The department shall make a decision on the application within 60 calendar  
days of the date on which the administratively complete application is received by the  
department or the date which is indicated in the public notice as the submission date,  
whichever is later.  
History: 1980 AACS 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2218 Discharge permits.  
Rule 2218.(1) The department shall issue a permit for a discharge other than a  
discharge meeting the requirements of R 323.2210 to R 323.2217, but meeting the  
requirements of R 323.2204, under the terms of R 323.2208 and this rule.  
Page 23  
(2) To be permitted under this rule, a discharge shall meet the requirements of R  
323.2204, R 323.2220 to R 323.2222, and, if applicable, R 323.2233 and R 323.2237. In  
addition, the proposed system for treating the wastewater to be discharged shall have  
sufficient hydraulic capacity and detention time to adequately treat the anticipated  
organic and inorganic pollutant loading. To demonstrate that these requirements are met,  
at the time of application a permit applicant shall submit a basis of design for the  
treatment system. The basis of design shall include all of the following information:  
(a) The volume of wastewater to be treated per unit of time.  
(b) An analysis of the influent, or a description of the anticipated influent,  
including the substances to be treated to meet the requirements of R 323.2222 and the  
concentrations of the substances.  
(c) A description of the existing or proposed treatment, or both, including,  
where applicable, the following:  
(i)  
The treatment methods before  
discharge,  
based  
on  
treatment  
classifications for certified operators developed under R 323.1251 to R 323.1258 and  
implementing part 31 for an industrial or commercial entity or developed under R  
299.2911 to R 299.2927 and implementing part 41 of the act  
for a sewage treatment works operated by a municipality.  
(ii) To the extent applicable, engineering plans depicting all of the following:  
(A) A schematic flow diagram.  
(B) Information on unit processes.  
(C) Flow rates.  
(D) Design hydraulic capacity.  
(E) Pollutant loading.  
(F) Detention times.  
(G) Sizing of treatment units.  
(H) Design calculations for major treatment units.  
(I) A description of sludge management.  
(iii) A discharge management plan that includes, where applicable, all of the  
following information:  
(A) Maximum daily and annual discharge volumes.  
(B) The total discharge area.  
(C) Scheduled maintenance.  
(D) Vegetative cover control and removal.  
(E) Load and rest cycles.  
(F) Application rates.  
(G) Means for even distribution of waste or wastewater.  
(H) Strategies for periods of adverse weather.  
(I) Monitoring procedures.  
(J) Other pertinent information.  
(d) For a discharge of sanitary sewage, unless these rules provide other- wise, the  
treatment system shall be consistent with the standards in chapter 10 of the publication  
entitled "Engineering Reports and Facility Plans of the Recommended Standards for  
Wastewater Facilities," 1997 edition. The standards in chapter 10 are adopted by  
reference in these rules. The standards may be purchased from Health Education  
Services, P.O. Box 7126, Albany, New York 12224, or from the Michigan  
Page 24  
Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241,  
Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of $12.00, plus  
shipping and handling.  
(3) An application for a discharge permit to be issued under this rule shall be  
made on a form determined by the department. An application under this rule shall be  
administratively complete before it is considered by the department for decision.  
Administrative completeness is determined as follows:  
(a) An application for a discharge that has not been previously permitted shall  
include all of the following information:  
(i) The basis of design as required by subrule (2) of this rule.  
(ii) An evaluation of the feasibility of alternatives to discharge to the groundwater  
in accordance with R 323.2219.  
(iii) The wastewater characterization as required by R 323.2220.  
(iv) The hydrogeological report as required by R 323.2221.  
(v) If a standard applicable to the discharge is to be determined under  
R
323.2222(5), the information necessary to determine that standard, including whether a  
substance is a hazardous substance under part 201.  
(vi) If applicable, the monitoring plan as specified by R 323.2223.  
(vii) If applicable, a description of the discharge methods and information  
that demonstrate that the requirements of R 323.2233 will be met.  
(viii) If applicable, information that demonstrates that the requirements of R  
323.2237 will be met.  
(b) An application for the renewal of a permit where the discharge is proposed to  
be modified in quantity, effluent characterization, or treatment process from that  
previously permitted shall include all of the following:  
(i) The request for reissuance specified in R 323.2151.  
(ii) An updated submission of the items listed in subdivision (a) of this subrule  
corresponding to the differences between the proposed discharge and the discharge  
previously permitted.  
(iii) All of the following information:  
(A) A narrative description of the facility's history of compliance with effluent and  
groundwater permit limits and sampling frequency.  
(B) If permit limits were exceeded, the steps taken to bring the facility into  
compliance.  
(C) An evaluation of whether there are general trends in the effluent or  
groundwater sampling data indicating that the discharge is approaching permit limits.  
(D) An updated site map.  
(E) A current groundwater contour map and a narrative evaluation of whether  
changes to the existing groundwater monitoring system are warranted and the rationale  
for any proposed change.  
(F) The most recent groundwater quality results from all wells on site.  
(G) The most recent effluent quality results.  
(H) The most recent static water levels and groundwater elevations from all wells  
on site.  
Page 25  
(c) An application for the renewal of a permit where the discharge will consist of  
the same quantity, effluent characterization, and treatment process as previously  
permitted shall include all of the following:  
(i) The request for reissuance specified in R 323.2151.  
(ii) A certification by the discharger that the discharge will consist of the same  
quantity, effluent characterization, and treatment process as previously permitted.  
(iii) The information required by subdivision (b)(iii) of this subrule.  
(d)  
A discharger who proposes to modify the quantity or effluent  
characteristics of a discharge shall notify the department of the proposed modification  
before it occurs. If the department determines the proposed modification is minor  
based on the quantity or quality of the discharge, then the department may modify the  
permit as requested and include new terms or conditions that may be necessary to  
ensure that the terms of R 323.2204 are met. If the department determines that the  
proposed modification is significant based on the quantity or quality of the discharge,  
then the discharger shall submit an application for reissuance under the terms of  
subdivision (b) of this rule.  
(e) A discharger who proposes to modify the treatment process of a discharge  
shall notify the department of the proposed modification before it occurs.Unless the  
department notifies the discharger within 30 calendar days that the proposed  
modification may affect compliance with limitations on the  
quality or quantity of the discharge, the discharger may make the  
modification. If the department notifies the discharger and determines that the proposed  
modification is minor based on the quantity or quality of the discharge, then the  
department may modify the permit as requested and include new terms or conditions that  
may be necessary to ensure that terms of R 323.2204 are met. If the department  
notifies the discharger and determines that the proposed modification is significant  
based on the quantity or quality of the discharge, then the discharger shall submit an  
application for reissuance under the terms of subdivision (b) of this subrule.  
(4) A discharge authorized under this rule shall meet the conditions of this  
subrule. The department may waive the conditions of subdivision (a) or  
(b) of this subrule, individually or collectively, if the department determines that  
the purpose of the subdivision to be waived has been met.  
(a) Within 30 calendar days of completion of construction of treatment facilities,  
a discharger shall provide, to the department, certification by an engineer licensed under  
Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as amended, being §339.101 et seq. of the  
Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the occupation code, that a quality control and  
quality assurance program was utilized and that the facilities constructed were built  
consistent with standard construction practices to comply with the permit and this part.  
(b) A discharger shall have an operation and maintenance manual for the  
wastewater treatment facility. The manual shall be used by the certified operator of the  
facility as a guide for facility operation and maintenance. The operation and maintenance  
manual shall include all of the following information: (i) The function, start-up,  
shutdown, and periodic maintenance procedures for each unit process and item of  
mechanical and electrical equipment.  
(ii) A description of the appropriate response or facility adjustment to minimize  
the impact of emergency situations with the potential to affect the discharge or  
Page 26  
compliance with the permit so as to facilitate rapid implementation of a correct  
response during an emergency.  
(iii) A monitoring program to monitor process efficiency.  
(iv) The details of how inspections will be conducted and a schedule for the  
inspection of collection system and pump stations, where applicable.  
(v) The periodic maintenance procedures for the collection system and pump  
stations, where applicable.  
(vi) Procedures for routine maintenance and inspection of lagoons and  
equipment used for irrigation, where applicable, and the documentation of maintenance  
and inspection.  
(vii) A listing of environmental regulations, other than this part, that apply to  
operation of thewastewater treatment facility.  
(c) A discharger shall monitor the discharge and its effect as specified in R  
323.2223.  
(d) A discharger shall report monitoring results as specified in R 323.2225.  
(e) A discharger shall close the wastewater treatment and discharge area as  
specified in R 323.2226.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2219 Evaluation of feasibility of alternatives to discharge to  
groundwater.  
Rule 2219.(1) An evaluation of the feasibility of alternatives to discharge to  
the groundwater required by R 323.2218(3)(a)(ii) shall contain, at a minimum, an  
analysis of the feasibility of items contained in this rule. Feasibility includes the practical  
ability to implement the alternative and a comparison of the cost of the alternative to its  
benefits.  
(2) At a minimum, alternatives to the discharge that shall be considered are  
minimizing the volume and toxicity of the wastewater, recycling wastewater,  
connecting to a municipal sanitary sewer system, and discharging to surface water.  
Alternatives for minimizing the volume and toxicity of wastewater include pollution  
prevention opportunities, including the following:  
(a) Equipment or technology modifications.  
(b) Process or procedure modifications.  
(c) Reformulation or redesign of products.  
(d) Substitution of raw materials.  
(e) Improvements in housekeeping, maintenance, training, or inventory control.  
(3) At a minimum, the following treatment systems shall be considered for  
substances determined to be in the discharge by the characterization required by R  
323.2220:  
(a) For a metal, the following:  
(i) Flocculation.  
(ii) Settling.  
(iii) Oxidation.  
(iv) Filtration.  
(v) Ion exchange  
Page 27  
(vi) Reverse osmosis.  
(vii) Electrolytic recovery.  
(b) For a volatile substance, the following:  
(i) Carbon adsorption.  
(ii) Air stripping.  
(iii) Aeration.  
(c) For a nonvolatile substance, the following:  
(i) Sorption.  
(ii) Settling.  
(iii) Filtration.  
(d) For a substance that degrades biologically, biological treatment in a lagoon,  
tank, or biological reactor or through controlled land treatment.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2220 Characterization of waste or wastewater to be discharged.  
Rule 2220.(1) Before a permit can be issued under R 323.2218, an applicant shall  
properly characterize the waste or wastewater to be discharged.  
To properly  
characterize the waste or wastewater, the applicant shall determine the pollutants that  
may be present in the waste or wastewater in light of the process by which it is generated.  
The applicant shall use the methods described in this rule to make the determination.  
(2) Samples of effluent collected to determine the presence of inorganic substances  
shall be unfiltered.  
(3) For a substance for which there is an analytical method approved by the  
department for purposes of monitoring under this part, the waste or wastewater shall  
be representatively sampled using sampling procedures specified in the EPA  
document entitled "Test Methods for the Evaluation of  
Solid Waste, Physical-Chemical Methods," SW-846, 3rd Edition, September 1986, as  
updated through the effective date of these rules and analyzed using analytical  
procedures specified in either SW-846 or the publication entitled "Guidelines  
Establishing Test Procedures for the Analysis of Pollutants," 40  
C.F.R. Part 136, or other methods approved by the department for purposes of  
monitoring under this part. SW-846 and updates and the guidelines are adopted by  
reference in these rules and are available for inspection at the Lansing office of the  
department of environmental quality, waste management division. The documents may  
be purchased from the United States Government Printing Office, Superintendent of  
Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15250-7954, or the Michigan  
Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241,  
Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of $319.00 and  
$36.00, respectively, plus shipping and handling.  
(4) Reporting levels shall be those approved by the department as the lowest level  
routinely quantifiable with acceptable precision and accuracy by standard laboratory  
methods.  
Not less than 4 discrete samples are necessary to be considered  
representative, unless a lesser number is approved by the department.  
(5) For any other substance that may be present, an estimate of the substance  
concentration in the discharge shall be made with a mass balance calculation or other  
Page 28  
estimate approved by the department. The estimate shall use the annual average use  
rate for the substance and annual average discharge volume, except when an alternative  
is approved by the department.  
(6) For a facility not yet operating, the discharger shall characterize the  
anticipated discharge using the best available information. The discharger shall  
identify the source of the information in the application.  
(7) The department may require the characterization of sludge generated by the  
wastewater treatment process as it relates to the ability of the discharge to meet the  
standards of R 323.2222 as a condition of authorizing a discharge under these rules. The  
characterization shall be done according to the procedures described in subrule (3) of this  
rule.  
(8) The department may require the characterization of other environmental media  
affected in the treatment of wastewater as a condition of authorizing a discharge under  
these rules. The characterization shall be done according to the procedures described in  
subrule (3) of this rule.  
(9) The department may waive the requirements of this rule if the nature of the  
material to be characterized is sufficiently well understood to ensure that the conditions  
of R 323.2204(2)(a) will be met.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2221 Hydrogeological report.  
Rule 2221.(1) Before obtaining a permit authorized under R 323.2218, an  
applicant shall provide a hydrogeologic report that meets the require- ments of this rule.  
(2) Except as provided in subrule (6) of this rule, a hydrogeological report shall  
be in compliance with all of the following provisions:  
(a) Describe the regional hydrogeologic conditions, including regional and local  
geology and surface and groundwater conditions, over an area sufficient to allow the  
department to determine the acceptability of discharging at the site under part 31 and this  
part as described in subrule (4) of this rule.  
(b) Define the areal and vertical extent and physical properties of the site earth  
materials that assimilate and transmit the discharge.  
(c) Determine whether the discharge is to a usable aquifer, an unusable aquifer, or  
groundwater not in an aquifer. For an aquifer, determine the groundwater flow  
direction, groundwater velocity, 3-dimensional flow path of the discharge within the  
aquifer, interconnection between aquifers, and background and existing groundwater  
quality. For groundwater not in an aquifer, determine that the hydraulic or other  
physical properties, or both, are such that the formation would not be considered an  
aquifer.  
(d) Identify whether the discharge will occur within an established designated  
wellhead protection area or may occur within a proposed wellhead protection area.  
(e) If the discharge is to be monitored under R 323.2223(2), provide sufficient  
information for the department to determine the acceptability of a proposed monitoring  
program.  
Page 29  
(3) Before initiating a hydrogeologic report required by subrule (1) of this rule,  
the applicant may submit to the department a work plan for the development of the  
hydrogeologic report.  
(a) The department shall approve, or recommend modifications to, the work plan  
within 45 calendar days of its receipt. If the applicant does not receive a written  
approval or recommendation within 45 calendar days of receipt by the department,  
then the work plan shall be considered approved.  
(b) A work plan shall contain all of the following information:  
(i) A map indicating the surface geology of the area with the discharge location  
identified.  
(ii) A map indicating the topography of the area with the discharge location  
identified.  
(iii) Logs of domestic wells adequate to characterize each water supply formation  
within 1/2 mile in all directions from the discharge. A map shall be provided that  
correlates each well log to a specific map location.  
(iv) A map delineating an established or proposed designated wellhead  
protection area that may be affected by the discharge.  
(v) For all proposed observation wells to be drilled on-site, all of the following  
information:  
(A) Number of wells.  
(B) Location.  
(C) Depth.  
(D) Drilling method.  
(E) Well construction materials.  
(F) Well development method.  
(vi) For all proposed soil borings on-site, all of the following information:  
(A) Number of soil borings.  
(B) Location.  
(C) Depth.  
(D) Drilling and plugging method.  
(vii) A description of all physical testing to be done to identify soil properties and  
aquifer characteristics and locations where testing is to occur.  
(viii) A groundwater sampling and analysis plan meeting the requirements of R  
323.2223(2)(a).If a map is required, it shall be drawn to scale and have a north orientation  
arrow.  
(c) If conditions not anticipated in an approved work plan are encountered in the  
field while collecting information for the hydrogeologic report, then the person  
collecting the information may contact the department to obtain approval of the  
changes necessary to the original work plan. Modifications may be approved verbally  
by the department. Written confirmation of all changes shall be provided by the  
discharger within 10 working days of verbal approval by the department.  
(4) All of the following are specific elements of a hydrogeologic report necessary  
to allow the determination required of the department by subrule (1) of this rule:  
(a) Soil borings or other test methods to determine the composition of subsurface  
materials, locate usable aquifers, and determine the thickness of the usable aquifer. Soil  
boring logs shall contain all of the following information:  
Page 30  
(i) Soil and rock descriptions.  
(ii) Method of sampling.  
(iii) Sample depth.  
(iv) Date of boring.  
(v) Water level measurements.  
(vi) United States geological survey ground elevation.  
(vii) Soil test data.  
(viii)Standard penetration number calculated in accordance with the method  
specified in the standard penetration test, ASTM D1586-84, which is adopted by  
reference in R 323.2238.  
(b) Testing of the unsaturated zone sufficient to determine both of the following:  
(i) The ability of site earth materials to percolate and transmit the volume of  
liquids resulting from the discharge.  
(ii) The vertical and horizontal extent of mounding resulting from the discharge.  
(c) Well and field testing data sufficient to determine all of the following:  
(i) Based on not less than 3 wells in the aquifer receiving the discharge, the  
groundwater flow direction, depth to groundwater, and existing groundwater quality of  
the aquifer receiving the discharge.  
(ii) Interconnections between the aquifers receiving the discharge and other  
aquifers in the vicinity of the discharge location.  
(iii) Horizontal hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer receiving the discharge to  
allow calculation of groundwater flow velocity.  
(iv) The vertical gradients within the aquifer if the discharge is to be monitored  
under R 323.2223(2).  
(d) Data indicating both of the following groundwater quality parameters at the  
site:  
(i) Specific conductance as an indication of dissolved solids.  
(ii) Concentration of all of the following substances for inorganic groundwater  
chemistry comparison of water quality:  
(A) Cations of calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and iron.  
(B) Anions of chloride, sulfate, and bicarbonate.  
(C) The pH.  
(D) Any additional substances present or likely to be present in the proposed  
discharge.  
(e) If groundwater on the site or adjacent to the site is contaminated so that either  
property is a facility as defined by part 201, and if the extent or magnitude of the  
contamination could be affected by the discharge, information as described in this  
subrule. If the contamination is on the site, then the hydrogeologic report shall  
contain a delineation of the portion of the aquifer contaminated and a description of  
each substance that exceeds regulatory criteria. If contamination is on an adjacent  
property, then the hydrogeologic report shall include notice that the contamination is  
known to exist. The department may require further information on the nature of  
contamination on the adjacent property if, as a result of other information in the  
hydrogeological report, the department determines there is a significant likelihood that  
the extent or magnitude of that contamination could be affected by the discharge.  
Page 31  
(f)  
For dischargers proposing land treatment under R 323.2233 to meet the  
standards contained in R 323.2222, an evaluation of site earth material and intended  
crop sufficient to support the application under R 323.2233.  
(g) Supporting information, including all of the following information:  
(i) A general description of the geology of the surrounding area and how it relates  
to the geology and hydrogeology of the discharge location, including formations  
used as water supplies in the area.  
(ii) A narrative description of the hydrogeologic data collected and  
interpretation of the data as it relates to satisfying the requirements of this rule.  
(iii) Cross sections showing a 2-dimensional representation of the geology of the  
site sufficient to reflect the site geology and hydrogeology.  
(iv) A map of the site, drawn to scale with a north arrow, which indicates the  
surveyed locations of soil borings, observation and monitor wells, and test pits and  
other areas of physical testing and which has a groundwater contour overlay that  
indicates groundwater flow direction with a maximum contour interval of 1 foot. The  
top of well casings shall be surveyed and referenced to United States geological survey  
data accurate to 0.01 foot by a land surveyor licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public  
Acts of 1980, as amended, being §339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and  
known as the occupational code.  
(v) A map of the surrounding area that shows the direction of surface drainage  
and all of the following within 1/2 mile of the discharge:  
(A) Representative private water supply wells.  
(B) All municipal water supply wells.  
(C) Irrigation and disposal wells.  
(D) Lakes.  
(E) Ponds.  
(F) Streams.  
(G) Springs.  
(H) Wetlands.  
(vi) Information describing all pertinent current and historical land use practices at  
the site of discharge and at properties adjacent to the site of discharge. Land use is  
pertinent for purposes of this subdivision if it could be impacted by the discharge or  
could impact the discharge.  
(vii) If groundwater monitoring is required under R 323.2223(2), a proposed  
groundwater monitoring system which includes at least 1 cluster well located  
hydraulically downgradient of the discharge and which meets the conditions of R  
323.2223(2).  
(viii)All data collected during the field investigation and calculations and test  
results used to determine aquifer properties.  
(5) All test wells that are not included as part of the permanent groundwater  
monitoring program for the discharge, as required by R 323.2223, shall be removed and  
plugged according to approved procedures provided in part 127 of Act No. 368 of the  
Public Acts of 1978, as amended, being §§323.12701 to 323.12715 of the Michigan  
Compiled Laws, or part 625 of the act, mineral wells, being §§324.62501 to 324.62518  
of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
Page 32  
(6) The department may waive all or portions of the requirements of this rule if the  
applicant demonstrates, to the department's satisfaction, that the purposes of this part  
can be met without submittal of all hydrogeologic information described in this rule.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2222 Discharge standards.  
Rule 2222.(1) Except as provided in R 323.2206(4), a discharge authorized by a  
permit issued under R 323.2218 shall not exceed the standards contained in this rule  
when measured as indicated. For purposes of this rule, compliance with the  
standards in this rule when measured in the groundwater shall be determined as  
described in R 323.2224.  
(2) A discharge that contains a substance that is capable of being treated by the  
actions of soil, soil microorganisms, or plants shall be limited as follows:  
(a) A discharge that contains ammonia, nitrate, or nitrite shall be at a concentration  
that is less than either of the following standards:  
(i) Five thousand micrograms per liter (ug/l) of total inorganic nitrogen, and not  
more than 500 ug/l nitrite, as measured in the effluent and groundwater. (ii) Five  
thousand micrograms per liter (ug/l) of total inorganic nitrogen, and not more than  
500 ug/l nitrite, as measured in the groundwater and an effluent standard indicated in  
the permit that can be reasonably shown by the applicant to result in meeting the  
groundwater standard.  
(b) A discharge that contains phosphorous shall be at a concentration that is less  
than 5,000 ug/l as measured in the effluent, unless the department determines that  
either of the following alternative concentrations is appropriate:  
(i) If a body of surface water is within 1,000 feet hydraulically downgradient  
of the discharge, then the concentration shall be less than 1 of the following standards:  
(A) One thousand ug/l as measured in the effluent.  
(B) One thousand ug/l as measured in the groundwater and an effluent standard  
that can be reasonably shown by the applicant to result in meeting the groundwater  
standard.  
(C) A groundwater or effluent standard indicated in the permit that is determined  
by the department as necessary to protect surface waters as required by R 323.1041  
to R 323.1117.  
(ii) If a body of surface water is not less than 1,000 feet downgradient of the  
discharge, a concentration measured in the effluent or groundwater, or both, that has been  
demonstrated by the applicant to protect surface waters as required by R 323.1041 to R  
323.1117.  
(c) A substance other than ammonia, nitrate, nitrite and phosphorus that can be  
demonstrated by the applicant to qualify under this subrule shall be at a concentration  
less than either of the following standards:  
(i) The standard established for the substance in subrules (3) to (7) of this rule as  
measured in the effluent and groundwater.  
(ii) The standard established for the substance in subrules (3) to (7) of this rule as  
measured in the groundwater and an effluent standard indicated in the permit which can  
be reasonably shown by the applicant to result in the groundwater standard being met.  
Page 33  
(3) A discharge containing a substance indicated in the following subdivisions  
shall be at a concentration that is less than the standard indicated:  
(a) Aluminum, 150 ug/l.  
(b) Chloride, 250,000 ug/l.  
(c) Sodium, 150,000 ug/l.  
(d) Sulfate, 250,000 ug/l.  
(e) Iron, 300 ug/l.  
(f) Manganese, 50 ug/l. Compliance with this standard shall be determined in  
the effluent or groundwater, as selected by the applicant and specified in the permit.  
(4) The allowable concentration for total trihalomethanes shall be 20% of the  
concentration at which a facility as defined by part 201 would be created. The allowable  
concentration shall be measured in the effluent and groundwater. To determine total  
trihalomethanes, a discharge shall be assessed by summing the concentrations of the  
following substances if found to be present:  
(a) Chloroform.  
(b) Bromodichloromethane.  
(c) Dibromochloromethane.  
(d) Bromoform.  
(5) A discharge containing a substance not described in subrule (2)(a) or (b), (3), or  
(4) of this rule shall be limited as follows:  
(a) If the substance is an inorganic substance not described in subrule (2)(a) or (b)  
or (3) of this rule, then the concentration of the substance in the groundwater shall not  
exceed a concentration 1/2 way between the back- ground groundwater quality and the  
concentration at which the site would be a facility as defined by part 201. Background  
groundwater quality for this purpose shall be determined by upgradient wells located  
pursuant to the hydrogeological report described in R 323.2221. The discharger shall  
notify the department if the concentration of the inorganic substance in groundwater  
exceeds the background groundwater quality determined under R 323.2221. An initial  
notification at the time when the condition first exists fulfills the discharger’s obligation  
of notifying the department. The department will notify the discharger of the  
excessive concentration of the inorganic substance if the department becomes aware  
of it before notice from the discharger.  
(b) If the substance is an organic parameter for which a treatment technology  
standard is established for the substance under R 323.2229, then the following  
provisions apply, as applicable:  
(i) If the concentration of the substance in the effluent exceeds the treatment  
technology standard, then the discharger shall take initial response as required by R  
323.2228. The initial response concentration established in this paragraph may be  
modified under R 323.2222(2)(c)(ii) based on the concentration in the groundwater  
established in paragraph (ii) of this subdivision.  
(ii) The concentration of the substance in groundwater shall not exceed the  
treatment technology standard. Measurement for this purpose shall be according to R  
323.2224, except that R 323.2224(2) shall not apply.  
(c) If the substance is an organic parameter for which there is a standardized  
or EPA-approved analytical method and if a treatment technology based standard has not  
been determined under R 323.2229, then the following provisions apply, as applicable:  
Page 34  
(i) The concentration of the substance in the effluent shall not exceed that  
concentration, if it occurred in the groundwater, a facility as defined by part 201 would  
exist.  
(ii) If the substance is detected in groundwater, then the discharger shall take  
initial response as required by R 323.2228. Measurement for this purpose shall be  
according to R 323.2224, except that R 323.2224(2) shall not apply.  
(d) If the substance is an organic parameter for which there is no standardized  
or EPA-approved analytical method, then the discharge shall be controlled by limiting  
the volume of the substance used by the discharger. The volume shall result in a  
discharge that has a concentration of the substance, as determined by use of a mass  
balance equation, which does not exceed the concentration at which a facility as  
defined by part 201 would be created.  
(e) If there is insufficient information concerning the substance to determine the  
criteria described in subdivision (a), (c), or (d) of this subrule, then the substance shall  
not be discharged, except pursuant to subrule (7) of this rule.  
(6) If the standard determined under subrule (5) of this rule is below the detection  
limit as determined by the department for this part, then the department may take 1 of  
the following actions:  
(a) Deny the application if the risks associated with the inability to detect the  
substance at concentrations below the detection limit are determined by the  
department to be unacceptable.  
(b) Require the discharger to demonstrate that the concentration in the discharge  
is not above, and cannot be above, the standard by estimating the concentration of the  
substance in the discharge as described in R 323.2220(5) or by monitoring the internal  
processes for the substance.  
(c) Establish a standard in the permit at the detection limit as determined by  
the department for the purposes of compliance with this subrule.  
(7) The department may approve a standard different from the standards  
established in subrules (2) to (6) of this rule under any of the following circumstances:  
(a) The discharge is to groundwater in an unusable aquifer or not in an aquifer.  
(b) The groundwater affected by the discharge vents to surface water and all of the  
following conditions are met:  
(i) Venting of groundwater affected by the discharge to surface water is  
demonstrated by a hydrogeologic report meeting the requirements of R 323.2221.  
(ii) Uses of the surface water are protected in accordance with R 323.1041 to R  
323.1117.  
(iii) Except as provided in paragraph (v) of this subdivision, the distance  
between the point of discharge and the point of venting to surface water is less than  
1,000 feet.  
(iv) Deed restrictions, on a form approved by the department, preventing the  
withdrawal and use of the groundwater for all protected uses that would be impacted by  
the discharge have been recorded with the register of deeds for all property, including  
the property of the discharger, downgradient from the discharge to the point of venting.  
(v) A discharge otherwise meeting the conditions in this subrule that occurs at  
more than 1,000 feet from the point of venting to surface water may be authorized if the  
discharger owns all property between the point of discharge and the point of venting  
Page 35  
and if the department determines that alternative methods of wastewater disposal  
are not economically or technically feasible, that a prudent alternative does not exist,  
and that the discharge promotes the public health, safety, and welfare in light of the  
state's paramount concern for the protection of its natural resources.  
(c) The department may issue a permit that has a limit that is higher than the  
standard established by subrules (2) to (6) of this rule, if all other conditions of this part  
are met and if the applicant demonstrates either of the following:  
(i) Background groundwater quality exceeds the standard established in this rule  
for any substance and the discharge does not increase the concentration of the  
substance in the groundwater. A permit issued under this subdivision may limit a  
substance in the discharge in order to reflect changes in background groundwater quality  
or municipal water supply quality.  
(ii) The source of the water is a municipal water supply delivered in compliance  
with Act No. 399 of the Public Acts of 1976, as amended, being R 325.1001 et seq. of  
the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the safe drinking water act, the water  
exceeds the standard established in this rule for the substance, and the discharge does  
not increase the concentration of the substance in the groundwater above the  
concentration of the municipal water supply. A permit issued under this subdivision  
may limit a substance in the discharge in order to reflect changes in background  
groundwater quality or municipal water supply quality.  
(d) If an applicant demonstrates that existing groundwater quality exceeds the  
standard established in this rule for total inorganic nitrogen, then a permit may be  
issued by the department that has a higher limit than the standard established in this  
rule if the limit is not more than the state drinking water standard established under Act  
No. 399 of the Public Acts of 1976, as amended, being R 325.1001 et seq. of the  
Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the safe drinking water act, the concentration  
of total inorganic nitrogen in the discharge does not increase the concentration of  
total inorganic nitrogen in the groundwater, and all other pertinent conditions of this part  
are met. A permit issued under this rule may include a limit on total inorganic  
nitrogen in order to reflect improvement in existing groundwater quality.  
(e) A standard that has a limit that is higher than the limit set in subrules (2) and  
(4) to (7) of this rule may be established by the department in an individual case if the  
department determines that the standard set in subrules (2) and (4) to (7) of this rule is  
not economically or technically feasible, that a prudent alternative does not exist, and  
that establishing a higher limit is consistent with the promotion of the public health,  
safety, and welfare in light of the state's paramount concern for the protection of its  
natural resources. In approving a permit with a limit established under this subdivision,  
the department may prescribe criteria, limitations, or conditions as the department  
deems necessary to ensure that the conditions of R 323.2204 are met.  
(f) A standard that is more stringent than the standards described in this rule may be  
established in an individual case if the department determines that readily available and  
cost-effective treatment technology allows a more stringent standard to be met.  
(g) A standard that is more stringent than the standards described in this rule may be  
established for the protection of other environmental media, where applicable, if  
consistent with the requirements of all of the following:  
(i) R 323.1041 to R 323.1117.  
Page 36  
(ii) Protection of soil by preventing the creation of a facility as defined by part  
201 or the violation of cleanup criteria established in section 21304 (a) of the act,  
being §324.21304(a) of the Michigan Compiled Laws, if applicable.  
(iii) R 336.1901, air contaminant and water vapor prohibitions.  
(h) If 2 or more substances are present and known to result in toxicological  
interaction, the interactive effects shall be considered in establishing standards for  
those substances.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2223 Discharge monitoring.  
Rule 2223.(1) Monitoring required by an authorization under this part shall be  
conducted in a manner, at a frequency, and for a substance the department specifies,  
under rule or permit, is necessary to assess compliance with these rules. Analytical  
methods used in the monitoring shall be in compliance with R 323.2220(3).  
Monitoring of an indicator parameter may be used in monitoring if the technique  
accurately reflects the effect of the discharge. An indicator parameter shall be  
representative of the environmental fate of a substance or substances in the discharge  
and shall be 1 of the following:  
(a) A substance in the discharge.  
(b) A decomposition material of a substance.  
(c) A sampling parameter that can be directly correlated to the concen- tration of  
another substance in the discharge.  
(2) Groundwater monitoring shall include the collection of water quality and water  
level data from a well or group of wells that are specifically designed to adequately  
assess the impact of the discharge on groundwater as described in R 323.2224. The  
design of the groundwater monitoring system shall be based on all of the following:  
(a) The hydrogeologic report.  
(b) Considerations of the local geology.  
(c) Groundwater conditions specific to each site.  
(d) The type of discharge.  
(3) At the time of application for a permit under R 323.2218, an applicant shall  
propose, for department approval, a groundwater sampling and analysis plan that  
establishes criteria for collecting representative samples of groundwater. The plan  
shall contain all of the following information:  
(a) The number and location of wells to be included in the groundwater  
monitoring system.  
(b) For each well, the depth and screened interval for each monitor well.The  
screened interval shall be referenced to United States geological survey data.  
(c) Well construction materials and installation techniques.  
(d) Sampling frequency.  
(e) A list of substances to be sampled.  
(f) Sampling procedure, including all of the following:  
(i) The method and volume of water removed from each well during sampling.  
(ii) Steps taken to prevent cross contamination between wells.  
(iii) Sample handling and preservation methods.  
Page 37  
(iv) Laboratory analysis method.  
(v) Laboratory method detection level.  
(vi) Quality assurance and quality control program.  
(g) A description of the techniques used to present and evaluate groundwater  
quality monitoring data.  
(h) A description of the method used to collect static water levels and present  
groundwater flow data. Static water level precision shall be to 0.01 foot.  
(4) A discharger shall design, construct, and abandon a monitoring well as follows:  
(a) A monitoring well shall be located at a depth where the screened interval  
will intercept the path of any discharge from the site in the groundwater as required  
by the department as specified by these rules.  
(b) If the thickness of the aquifer receiving the discharge is more than 20 feet, then  
at least 1 hydraulically downgradient monitor well location shall contain a cluster well.  
The separation and length of the screens shall be such that discrete groundwater  
potentiometric surface data can be collected to determine vertical gradients within the  
aquifer.  
(c)  
Monitor well construction and sampling equipment materials shall not  
influence the sampling results for the substances sampled.  
(d) A monitor well shall be designed to collect an adequate volume of water to  
allow analysis for the complete set of substances determined by the department as  
indicative of the discharge.  
(e) Annular space between the bore hole and the well shall be grouted from the  
ground surface to 2 feet above the well screen so as to prevent vertical leakage of the  
fluids between the casing and the drill hole. When drilling through confining layers, a  
discharger shall install double-cased wells to prevent the hydraulic connection of fluids  
between formations above and below the confining layer.  
(f) A well shall be protected against the introduction of contaminants by means of a  
locking device or by another method approved by the department.  
(g) Either a well shall be vented so that accurate static water levels may be  
collected or else well caps shall be removed a sufficient amount of time before  
measurement so that representative static water levels can be measured. Care shall be  
taken to prevent the introduction of contaminants through vents.  
(h) The well casing shall be protected against accidental damage and shall be  
adequately marked to prevent accidental damage.  
(i) A well shall be labeled so that the discharger's name, and address and the well  
number can be determined through the life of the permit.  
(j) If a monitoring well is to be permanently abandoned, a discharger shall  
follow the plugging procedures in part 127 of Act No. 368 of the Public Acts of 1978, as  
amended, being §§323.12701 to 323.12715 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.  
(k) A discharger shall receive department approval before installing, replacing,  
redeveloping, or abandoning a monitoring well that is part of the discharge monitoring  
program.  
(5) If necessary to measure compliance with a standard established under R  
323.2222(7)(g), the department may specify, by rule or permit, the monitoring of  
media in addition to groundwater.  
Page 38  
(6) A monitoring program under this rule shall be evaluated by the department  
on the basis of the threat the discharge poses to protected uses given all of the following  
factors:  
(a) The substances in the discharge.  
(b) The volume of the discharge.  
(c) The amount of information related to predicting the impacts of a discharge  
developed through the hydrogeological report prepared under R 323.2221.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2224 Groundwater monitoring location; approval by department.  
Rule 2224.(1) Except as provided in subrule (2) of this rule, the department  
shall approve, under  
R
323.2223(2),  
a
groundwater monitoring location for  
determining compliance with the standards of R 323.2222 if the location meets all of the  
following criteria:  
(a) It provides a practicable and effective point of measurement.  
(b) It is located on property owned or leased by the discharger and under the  
discharger's control.  
(c) It is not more than 150 feet from the point of discharge.  
(2) The department may approve, under R 323.2223(2), an alternative  
groundwater monitoring location to determine compliance with R 323.2222 if all of the  
following requirements are met:  
(a) The location is less than 1,000 feet from the point of discharge.  
(b) The alternative location provides a practicable and effective point of measuring  
compliance with R 323.2222.  
(c) The substance to be measured in the groundwater is either of the following:  
(i) A metal or other inorganic substance.  
(ii) A substance that the applicant demonstrates can be treated by the actions of  
soil, soil microorganisms, or plants.  
(d) The discharger has not previously met the standard for the same discharge  
at a closer point of compliance.  
(e) The discharger demonstrates all of the following:  
(i) Meeting the standard at a closer point of compliance is economically  
burdensome or technically impractical.  
(ii) The concentration of the substance in the groundwater between the point of  
compliance that would be determined under subrule 1 of this rule and the point of  
compliance determined under this subrule shall not exceed that which would require  
remedial action pursuant to part 201 for the land use classification of the property on  
which the discharge is located.  
(iii) The discharger demonstrates that the adoption of an alternative or alternatives  
described in R 323.2219(1) to (3) is not prudent given the state's paramount concern  
for the protection of its natural resources or public trust in the resources from  
pollution, impairment, or destruction. In determining whether the discharger has  
successfully demonstrated that the adoption of an alternative or alternatives is not  
prudent, the department shall specifically solicit and consider public comment on the  
issue and make the determination in writing.  
Page 39  
(f) The discharger has in place and implements all of the following:  
(i) A written pollution prevention policy that promotes the elimination of waste or  
reduction of waste at the source of generation.  
(ii) A pollution prevention policy that is signed by a responsible official and  
available to the department upon request.  
(iii) Periodic pollution prevention assessments that identify opportunities  
for eliminating waste at the source.  
(iv) Pollution prevention goals that specify the environmental media types of  
pollution prevention to be prevented or reduced, implementation activities, and  
projected time frames.  
(v) The recording of progress in achieving pollution prevention goals.  
(g) The point of compliance and all land surface area over groundwater from the  
point of discharge hydraulically downgradient to the point of compliance that does  
not meet the standards in R 323.2222 are located on property under the ownership and  
control of the discharger. For purposes of this subrule, a public or private transportation  
or utility right-of-way may be considered under the ownership and control of the  
discharger if the right-of-way owner gives written consent.  
(h) Groundwater affected by the discharge that exceeds the standards of  
R
323.2222 is located outside of a designated wellhead protection zone or, if a wellhead  
protection zone has not been designated, not less than 2,000 feet from an existing type I  
water supply well as defined in Act No. 399 of the Public Acts of 1976, as amended,  
being §325.1001 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the safe  
drinking water act, not less than 300 feet laterally from adjacent property that has a land  
use classification of residential, and not less than 800 feet laterally from adjacent  
property that has a land use classification of commercial or industrial. The department  
may authorize a lesser distance if, based upon hydrogeologic information contained in  
the report required under R 323.2221, there is no potential for impact to a wellhead  
protection zone or the use of ground- water on affected property.  
(i) A discharger may not use groundwater for human consumption if the  
groundwater does not meet state or federal standards for use as a potable water supply.  
A discharger shall record a restrictive covenant or other similar legal instrument  
describing this restriction against using groundwater for human consumption.  
Upon approval of the department, a discharger or subsequent owner of the property  
may modify the restrictive covenant or similar legal instrument to allow use of the  
groundwater for drinking if all groundwater affected by the discharge meets state or  
federal standards for use as a potable water supply.  
(3) If the department grants an alternative point of compliance in accordance  
with this rule, then the department shall provide copies of hydrogeologic information  
upon which the decision is based to the county, district, or city health department that  
has jurisdiction.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2225 Monitoring reports.  
Rule 2225. A discharger is required to provide monitoring reports to the  
department under this part at a time and in a manner specified by the depart- ment in a  
Page 40  
permit or other applicable authorization. The department shall provide a copy of a  
monitoring report upon request by any interested party.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2226 Cessation of discharge-related activities.  
Rule 2226.(1) A discharger who has eliminated all or any portion of a discharge  
area or treatment system or intends to eliminate a discharge area or treatment system  
shall comply with subrules (2) to (4) of this rule. The department may waive the  
requirements of subrules (2) and (4) of this rule upon written request by a discharger  
who intends to temporarily cease the use of a discharge area or treatment system for  
longer than 9 months.  
(2) A discharger shall eliminate all physical threats associated with discharge-  
related facilities not later than 5 calendar days after use of the facility has ceased.  
(3) A discharger shall comply with part 201, if applicable, or part 213, if  
applicable.  
(4) If a discharge is authorized under R 323.2218 or involves the use of a lagoon,  
including a discharge authorized before the effective date of these rules, then a  
discharger shall close the facility as follows, unless otherwise authorized by the  
department:  
(a) Not less than 75 calendar days before the cessation of discharge- related  
activities, a discharger shall representatively characterize the wastewater, soils,  
sediments, and sludges in the following manner:  
(i) A discharger shall representatively characterize the wastewater according to  
R 323.2220.  
(ii) A discharger shall conduct a totals analysis for substances that may be present,  
given the nature of the discharge, on representative samples of soils affected by the  
discharge and representative samples of sediment and sludges associated with the  
discharge. The totals analysis shall be according to procedures described in R  
323.2220(3).  
department.  
Samples shall be selected using procedures determined by the  
(iii) If the totals analysis for a substance is more than 20 times the toxicity  
characteristic regulatory level under part 111, then a discharger shall conduct a toxicity  
characteristic leaching procedure according to EPA method 1311 on representative  
samples of the soils, sediments, and sludges, as appropriate. EPA method 1311 is found  
in the EPA document entitled "Test Methods for the Evaluation of Solid Waste,  
Physical-Chemical Methods," SW-846, 3rd Edition, September 1986, as updated through  
the effective date of these rules. EPA method 1311 is adopted in these rules by reference  
and is available for inspection at the Lansing office of the department of  
environmental quality, waste management division. EPA document SW-846 and  
updates may be purchased from the United States Government Printing Office,  
Superintendent of Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15250-  
7954, or the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management  
Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption  
of these rules of $319.00, plus shipping and handling.  
Page 41  
(b) Within 30 days of completing the characterization, a discharger shall submit a  
closure plan meeting the requirements of subdivision (c) of this subrule to the  
department for review and approval. The closure plan shall include a schedule for  
implementation of closure activities as follows:  
(i) Within 45 calendar days of receipt, the department shall approve the closure  
plan, approve the plan with modifications, or deny the plan. If a plan is denied by the  
department, then a discharger shall resubmit the plan within 30 days.  
(ii) Implementation of the closure plan shall be initiated within 30 calendar days  
of approval and shall be completed within 1 year . (c) Closure activities shall  
comply with the following provisions, as applicable:  
(i) If the level of a contaminant in the groundwater qualifies the site as a facility as  
defined by part 201, then the discharger shall comply with the requirements of part 201  
with respect to the groundwater.  
(ii) If the groundwater exceeds a standard established for criteria by the department  
under section 21304(a) of the act, then a discharger shall comply with the requirement of  
part 213 with respect to the groundwater.  
(iii) If the characterization of wastewater remaining at the cessation of the  
discharge indicates that wastewater concentrations exceed a standard of R 323.2222, then  
a discharger shall treat and dispose of the wastewater as authorized by this part or  
remove the wastewater from the site to an approved wastewater treatment plant for  
treatment and disposal.  
(iv) Any sediments and sludges shall be managed in accordance with part 111 or  
part 115, as appropriate.  
(v) Soils associated with the discharge shall be managed in accordance with part  
111, part 115, or part 201, as appropriate.  
(d) The department may require postclosure monitoring activities to evaluate  
the effectiveness of closure activities.  
(e) A discharger shall notify the department before implementing activities  
described in the approved closure plan and certify completion of the approved closure  
plan. One of the following shall certify completion of the plan:  
(i) An engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as  
amended, being R 339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the  
occupational code.  
(ii) A professional geologist certified by the American Institute of Professional  
Geologists, 7828 Vance Drive, Suite 103, Arvada, Colorado 80003.  
(iii) A professional hydrologist certified by the American Institute of Hydrology,  
2499 Rice Street, Suite 135, St. Paul, Minnesota 55113.  
(iv) A groundwater professional certified by the National Ground Water  
Association, Association of Groundwater Scientists and Engineers Division, 601  
Dempsey Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081.  
(v) Another groundwater professional certified by an organization approved by the  
department.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2227 Discharger compliance responsibilities.  
Page 42  
Rule 2227.(1) If, during the term of an authorization to discharge granted under this  
part, monitoring data indicate that a limit on the concentration of a substance in  
groundwater or effluent has been exceeded, then a discharger shall do all of the  
following:  
(a) Notify the department, by written instrument within 7 calendar days of making  
the determination, that a limit has been exceeded. The notification shall include all of  
the following information:  
(i) The name of any substance for which a limit was exceeded.  
(ii) The concentration at which the substance was found.  
(iii) The location or locations at which the limit was exceeded.  
(b) Within 14 days of making the determination that a limit has been exceeded,  
resample the monitoring location at which the limit was exceeded as specified in a permit  
issued under these rules.  
(c) Within 60 calendar days of making the determination that a limit has been  
exceeded, submit a report that includes all of the following information:  
(i) Results of the confirmation sampling.  
(ii) An evaluation of the cause for the limit being exceeded and the impact of  
that event to groundwater.  
(iii) A proposal detailing steps taken or to be taken to prevent recurrences.  
(d) Take actions as may be required by the department under subrule (2) of this  
rule.  
(2) If the department determines that a limit on the concentration of a substance in  
effluent or groundwater has been exceeded, then the department may require the  
discharger to undertake 1 or more of the following activities:  
(a) Change the monitoring program, including increasing the frequency of effluent  
monitoring or groundwater sampling, or both.  
(b) Develop and implement a groundwater monitoring program if one is not in  
place. A groundwater monitoring program established under this provision shall comply  
with R 323.2223(2).  
(c) If the discharge is in a designated wellhead protection area, assess the affects of  
the discharge on the public water supply system.  
(d) Review the operational or treatment procedures, or both, at the facility.  
(e) Define the extent to which groundwater quality exceeds the applicable criteria  
established by the department under section 20120a(1)(a) of the act, if applicable, or  
under section 21304(a) of the act, if applicable.  
(f) Revise the operational procedures at the facility.  
(g) Change the design or construction of the wastewater operations at the facility.  
(h) Initiate an alternative method of waste treatment or disposal.  
(i) If the standard for the substance is established by R 323.2222(5), reduce or  
eliminate use of the substance.  
(j) Close the facility or end the discharge that resulted in the applicable  
standard being exceeded.  
(k) Remediate contamination to comply with the terms of section 20120a and b of  
the act, if applicable, or section 21304(a) of the act, if applicable.  
(3) If the department determines there is a change in groundwater quality from a  
normal operating baseline that indicates the concentration of a substance in  
Page 43  
groundwater may exceed an applicable limit, then the discharger shall take the following  
actions if required by the department:  
(a) Change the monitoring program, including increasing the frequency of effluent  
sampling or groundwater sampling, or both.  
(b) Review the operational or treatment procedures, or both, at the facility.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2228 Initial response.  
Rule 2228.(1) A discharger who is required by R 323.2222(5)(b)(i) or (c)(ii) to  
take initial response shall do all of the following:  
(a) Confirm the initial sampling result and notify the department as described in  
R 323.2227(1)(a) and (b).  
(b) Within 60 calendar days of determining that initial response is required,  
submit a report that includes all of the following:  
(i) Results of confirmation sampling.  
(ii) An evaluation of the cause for the need for initial response.  
(iii) A plan detailing steps to be taken to reduce the concentration of the  
substance in the effluent or groundwater below the concentration necessary for  
initial response. The plan shall include a schedule that is the shortest time practicable,  
but not more than 1 year, for achieving the reduction. If, based on groundwater  
velocity, the effect of actions to be taken in the plan will not be measurable in  
groundwater within 1 year, then the plan shall correlate groundwater concentrations of  
the substance of concern with effluent concentrations and be designed to achieve  
necessary reductions in effluent concentrations within as short a time as practical, but  
not more than 1 year.  
(c) Within 15 calendar days of submitting the plan required in subdivision (b)(iii) of  
this subrule, implement the plan taking into account any comments by the department.  
(d) Complete the plan described in subdivision (b)(iii) of this subrule, in the time  
described in that subdivision, unless either of the following occurs:  
(i) The discharger demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the department, that the  
concentration of the substance has fallen and will remain below the level necessary for  
initial response because of steps already taken. If the demonstration satisfies the  
department, then the discharger need not take any additional steps identified in the plan  
to reduce concentrations of the substance.  
(ii) The concentration of the substance exceeds the limit described in  
R
323.2222(5)(b)(ii) or (c)(i), in which case the discharger shall comply with R 323.2227.  
(e) If initial response is still necessary at the completion of the plan described in  
subdivision (b)(iii) of this subrule, describe in a second plan further steps to reduce the  
concentration of the substance below the level at which initial response is necessary.  
Development and implementation of the plan shall conform with subdivisions (b)(iii),  
(c), and (d) of this subrule.  
(f) If the initial response is not successful as specified in subrule (2) of this rule,  
undertake the following activities as required by the department:  
(i) If the discharge is in a designated wellhead protection area, assess the effects of  
the discharge on the public water supply system.  
Page 44  
(ii) Review the operational or treatment procedures, or both, at the facility.  
(iii) Revise the operational procedures at the facility.  
(iv) Change the design or construction of the wastewater operations at the facility.  
(v) Initiate an alternative method of waste treatment or disposal.  
(vi) Reduce or eliminate use of the substance.  
(2) An initial response is not successful if the concentration of the substance is  
above the concentration described in R 323.2222(5)(b)(i) or (c)(ii) at the earlier of the  
following events:  
(a) When the plan described in subrule (1)(e) of this rule has been fully  
implemented.  
(b) Two years from the date the report described in subrule (1)(b) of this rule was  
due to be submitted to the department.  
(3) A discharger who is in compliance with initial response requirements described  
in this rule is not subject to the civil fine described in section 3115(1) of the act, if the  
substance does not exceed the limit described in R 323.2222(5)(b)(ii) or (c)(i).  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2229 Treatment technology-based standards.  
Rule 2229.(1) The treatment technology-based standard described in R  
323.2222(5)(b) for a substance listed in table 101 shall be the concentration specified in  
table 101.  
(2) The department may specify a treatment technology-based standard for an  
organic substance in a permit issued under R 323.2218 if the applicant, using published  
documentation or verified field testing, demonstrates that the treatment technology  
achieves the lowest concentration possible in the discharge.  
(3) The department shall update table 101 on a periodic basis, but at least once  
every 3 years.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2230 Treatment system requirements.  
Rule 2230. A treatment system described in R 323.2216(3) shall be in  
compliance with all of the following requirements:  
(a) The treatment system shall have sufficient hydraulic capacity to treat organic or  
inorganic loading so that the discharge receives physical, chemical, biological  
treatment or a combination of treatments to meet the standards of R 323.2222.  
Subsequent to construction of treatment facilities built under this rule, a discharger shall  
obtain certification by an engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of  
1980, as amended, being ?339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known  
as the occupational code, that the treatment system complies with this requirement.  
The certification shall be available for inspection by the department.  
(b) Wastewater sludge shall be disposed of in accordance with part 115 or land  
applied in accordance with applicable state and federal law.  
Page 45  
(c) Operation of the treatment system shall be under the supervision of an operator  
certified pursuant to section 3110(1) of the act for an industrial or commercial entity or  
section 4104 of the act for a sewage treatment works operated by a municipality.  
(d) A discharger shall maintain all treatment or control facilities or systems  
installed or used by the discharger to achieve compliance with this rule in good  
working order and operate the facilities or systems as efficiently as possible.  
(e) A discharger shall have an operation and maintenance manual for the  
wastewater treatment facility. The manual shall be used by the certified operator of the  
facility as a guide for facility operation and maintenance.  
The operation and  
maintenance manual shall include all of the following information:  
(i) The function, start-up, shutdown, and periodic maintenance procedures for each  
unit process and item of mechanical and electrical equipment.  
(ii) The appropriate response or facility adjustment to minimize the impact of an  
emergency situation so as to facilitate rapid implementation of a correct response during  
emergencies.  
(iii) A monitoring program to monitor process efficiency.  
(iv) The details of how inspections will be conducted and a schedule for the  
inspection of collection system and pump stations, where applicable.  
(v) The periodic maintenance procedures for the collection system and pump  
stations, where applicable.  
(vi) Procedures for the routine maintenance and inspection of lagoons and  
equipment used for irrigation, where applicable.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2231 Certain treatment systems; design, operation, maintenance,  
limitation, and monitoring.  
Rule 2231.(1) A treatment system described in R 323.2216(3) that involves lagoon  
storage and land treatment shall be designed, operated, maintained, limited, and  
monitored in accordance with all of the following provisions:  
(a) The lagoon liner shall meet the requirements of R 323.2237.  
(b) The minimum storage volume of the lagoon system shall be 1/2 of the annual  
influent flow.  
(c) The lagoon system shall be a minimum of 2 cells as follows:  
(i) Cell 1 shall not exceed a maximum depth of 6 feet.  
(ii) Cell 2 shall not exceed a maximum depth of 8 feet.  
(iii)Subsequent cells shall not exceed a maximum depth of 10 feet.  
(d) A lagoon system that has mechanical aerators shall meet all of the following  
criteria:  
(i) The lagoon system shall be a minimum of 2 cells.  
(ii) A minimum of 2 mg/l dissolved oxygen shall be maintained in the primary  
cell.  
(iii) The maximum depth of secondary cells shall not exceed 10 feet.  
(e) A lagoon shall have security fencing and warning signs.  
(f) Wastewater disposal shall be by means of land application to a suitable crop  
in accordance with R 323.2233.  
Page 46  
(g) Effluent may be discharged from May 1 through October 15, unless  
alternative dates are approved by the department.  
(h) A discharge shall occur only from an isolated cell. An isolated cell is one that  
has not received untreated wastewater at least 30 calendar days before a discharge.  
(i) A discharger shall inspect the lagoon facilities weekly and maintain an  
inspection log unless otherwise authorized by the department.  
(j) A discharger shall meet all of the following requirements when drawing down a  
cell for transfer or discharge unless otherwise authorized by the department:  
(i) Water discharged or transferred shall be removed from the surface 2 feet of the  
cell at a rate of less than 1 foot per day.  
(ii) A discharger shall maintain a minimum of 2 feet of freeboard in all cells at all  
times.  
(iii) A discharger shall maintain a minimum of 2 feet of water in all cells at all  
times.  
(k) A discharger shall implement a facility maintenance program that, at a  
minimum, incorporates all of the following management practices unless otherwise  
authorized by the department:  
(i) Vegetation shall be maintained at a height not more than 6 inches above the  
ground on lagoon dikes.  
(ii) Not more than 10% of the water surface shall be covered by floating  
vegetation and not more than 10% of the water perimeter may have emergent rooted  
aquatic plants.  
(iii) Dikes shall be inspected for evidence of erosion and animal burrowing.  
Damage due to erosion or animal burrowing shall be corrected immediately and steps  
taken to prevent occurrences in the future.  
(iv) The occurrence of any of the following shall be minimized and immediate  
steps shall be taken to eliminate each occurrence:  
(A) Scum.  
(B) Floating sludge.  
(C) Offensive odors.  
(D) Insect infestations.  
(E) Septic conditions.  
(2) A treatment system which is described in R 323.2116(3) and which does not  
involve land treatment, such as a sequencing batch reactor, oxidation ditch, or  
activated sludge with denitrification capabilities, shall meet the following requirements,  
as applicable:  
(a) A system that does not have a minimum storage volume of 1/2 the annual  
influent flow shall comply with both of the following provisions:  
(i) Meet the requirements of R 323.2222 in the effluent.  
(ii) Have a contingency plan to deal with periods of upset, mechanical  
malfunctions, and routine maintenance while maintaining compliance with this part.  
(b) A sequencing batch reactor system shall have a minimum of 2 treatment tanks.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2232 Monitoring and limiting certain discharges.  
Page 47  
Rule 2232. A discharge authorized under R 323.2216(2) or (3) shall be limited  
and monitored by the discharger as follows:  
(a) Flow shall be measured.  
(b) Unless otherwise approved by the department under subdivision (d) of this  
rule, grab samples shall be collected and analyzed twice each month for the following  
parameters:  
(i) Ammonia-nitrogen.  
(ii) Nitrate-nitrogen.  
(iii) Nitrite-nitrogen.  
(iv) Sodium.  
(v) Chloride.  
(vi) Phosphorus.  
(vii) The pH.  
(viii)Dissolved oxygen for a primary cell described in R 323.2231(1) (d)(ii).  
(c) For a discharge authorized under R 323.2216(3), the effluent limitations are  
as follows:  
(i) Total inorganic nitrogen is limited to 20 mg/l in the effluent if the discharge is  
done under R 323.2233 and R 323.2234 or R 323.2235.  
(ii) Total inorganic nitrogen is limited to 5 mg/l in the effluent if the discharge is  
done under R 323.2233 and R 323.2236.  
(iii) Sodium is limited to 150 mg/l in the effluent.  
(iv) Chloride is limited to 250 mg/l in the effluent.  
(v) Total phosphorus is limited to 5 mg/l in the effluent if the discharge is  
done under R 323.2233 and either R 323.2234 or R 323.2235.  
(vi) Total phosphorus is limited to 2 mg/l in the effluent if the discharge is  
done under R 323.2233 and R 323.2236.  
(vii) The pH of the effluent shall be between 5.5 and 10.0 standard units.  
(d) The application rate of the discharge shall be determined by direct  
measurement or calculation. If the discharge in done in accordance with R 323.2233  
and R 323.2234 or R 323.2235, then the flow volume shall be reported in gallons per day  
and the application rate of the discharge shall be  
reported both in units of inches per day and inches per week. If the discharge is  
done in accordance with R 323.2233 and R 323.2236, then the flow volume shall be  
reported in gallons per day.  
(e) Alternative measurement frequencies may be approved by the department if the  
discharger demonstrates that results are representative of the discharge.  
(f) Monitoring reports shall be submitted in accordance with R 323.2225.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2233 Land treatment of wastewater; requirements.  
Rule 2233.(1) For the purposes of this rule, the land treatment of wastewater  
shall be categorized into 1 of 3 of the following general processes:  
(a) Slow rate.  
(b) Overland flow.  
(c) Rapid infiltration.  
Page 48  
(2) If land application is considered part of the overall treatment to meet the  
standards of R 323.2222, then a discharger shall incorporate the use of slow rate or  
overland flow processes in the design.  
(3) A land treatment system shall comply with the general requirements for land  
treatment systems as described in subrule (4) of this rule as well as the specific  
requirements applicable to the type of land treatment system provided in R 323.2234 to  
R 323.2236. If a land treatment system includes a combination of 1 or more of the  
processes, then the overall system shall comply with the general requirements in  
subrule (4) of this rule and its individual component processes shall comply with the  
applicable requirements provided in R 323.2234 to R 323.2236. A discharger shall  
provide detailed design data, as described in this rule, to the department upon request.  
(4) A land treatment system shall meet all of the following requirements:  
(a) The system shall be designed, constructed, and operated as follows:  
(i) The system shall be designed and constructed to prevent surface runoff from  
either entering or exiting the system.  
(ii) The system shall be designed and constructed to provide even distribution  
of wastewater during application. A header ditch, where used, shall be designed and  
constructed to allow for complete drainage after each wastewater loading or shall be  
lined to prevent seepage.  
(iii) If vegetative cover is utilized and is considered part of the overall  
treatment system, then the design and construction of the system shall allow for the  
mechanical harvesting of vegetative cover.  
(iv) The system shall be designed, constructed, and operated to allow an  
appropriate loading cycle. An appropriate loading cycle allows time between loadings  
for all of the following:  
(A) Soil organisms to biologically decompose organic constituents in the  
wastewater.  
(B) Organic solids on the soil surface to decompose.  
(C) The soil to become aerated.  
(D) Vegetative cover to utilize available nutrients provided through the application  
of the wastewater.  
(E) Soil conditions to become unsaturated and aerobic.  
(F) Harvesting operations to occur at appropriate times.  
(v) The design hydraulic loading or application rate, whether daily, monthly, or  
annual, shall not be more than 7% of the permeability of the most restrictive soil layer  
within the solum over the area of the discharge as determined by the saturated  
hydraulic conductivity method or 12% of the permeability as determined by the basin  
infiltration method. The design annual hydraulic loading rate shall not be more than  
3% of the permeability of the solum when determined by either the cylinder infiltration  
method or air entry permeameter test method. The methods referenced in this paragraph  
for determining soil permeability are adopted by reference in these rules and are  
contained in the publication entitled "Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 1, Physical and  
Mineralogical Properties," Second Edition, American Society of Agronomy, 1986. The  
publication may be purchased from the American Society of Agronomy, 677 South  
Segoe Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53711-1086, or the Michigan Department of  
Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing,  
Page 49  
Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of $65.00, plus  
shipping and handling. A discharger, if utilizing published information, shall  
determine the methodology used to measure the reported hydraulic conductivity. If  
published information is utilized and if it is given as a range of expected values, then  
a discharger shall use the minimum value given the most restrictive soil layer within the  
solum when calculating the hydraulic loading or application rate.  
(vi) The system shall be designed, constructed, and operated so as to prevent the  
development of sodic conditions within the solum of the discharge area.Sodic conditions  
are considered to exist in the solum when the exchangeable sodium percentage, which is  
the percentage of the cation exchange capacity of a soil occupied by sodium, is more  
than 15%. The exchangeable sodium percentage shall be calculated by dividing the  
quantity of exchangeable sodium in the solum, in milliequivalents per 100 grams of soil,  
by the cation exchange capacity, also in milliequivalents per 100 grams of soil, multiplied  
by 100.  
(b) If phosphorus adsorption within the solum or unsaturated soil column is part of  
the overall treatment process, then the system shall be designed as follows:  
(i) The available phosphorus adsorptive capacity of the solum or unsaturated  
soil column from within the discharge area shall be sufficient to provide the necessary  
treatment to ensure that the applicable limit established in the permit is not exceeded  
for the duration of the permit.  
(ii) The loading cycle shall be designed so as to provide the necessary contact  
time within the solum or unsaturated soil column required for phosphorus to be  
removed from the applied wastewater through adsorption processes.  
(iii) The available phosphorus adsorptive capacity of the discharge area shall be  
determined through either of the following methods:  
(A) By subtracting phosphorus levels of the unsaturated soil column,  
determined through on-site Bray-P1 analysis, from published phosphorus adsorption  
capacity data for the solum found within the discharge area. The method and procedure  
for the Bray-P1 analysis referenced in this subparagraph are contained in the publication  
entitled "Methods of Soil Analysis, Part 3 - Chemical Methods," American Society of  
Agronomy, 1996. The publication is adopted by reference in these rules and may be  
purchased from the American Society of Agronomy, 677 South Segoe Road, Madison,  
Wisconsin 53711-1086, or the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Waste  
Management Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time  
of adoption of these rules of $65.00, plus shipping and handling.  
(B) By subtracting phosphorus levels of the unsaturated soil column, as  
determined through on-site Bray-P1 analysis, from the phosphorus adsorption maximum  
as determined through Langmuir isotherm analysis of on site soils, after adjustments for  
the concentration of phosphorus in the effluent and fraction of utilization within the  
solum are made. The method and procedure for determining phosphorus adsorption  
maximum through Langmuir isotherm analysis referenced in this subparagraph are  
contained in the publication entitled "Phosphate Sorption Isotherms for Evaluating  
Phosphorus Requirements of Soils," Soil Science Society of America Journal, Volume  
34, American Society of Agronomy, 1970. The publication is adopted by reference in  
these rules and may be purchased from the American Society of Agronomy, 677 South  
Segoe Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53711- 1086, or the Michigan Department of  
Page 50  
Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing,  
Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of $65.00, plus shipping  
and handling.  
(iv) Unless otherwise specified in a permit issued under R 323.2216 or R  
323.2218, each individual discharge area shall be annually sampled in accordance  
with the publication entitled "Michigan State University Extension Bulletin E- 498" or  
other method approved by the department, and the samples shall be analyzed for cation  
exchange capacity, available Bray-P1 phosphorus, pH, and sodium. Bulletin E-498 is  
available from Michigan State University Bulletin Office, 10-B Agriculture Hall,  
Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824, at a cost of 25 cents per  
copy at the time of adoption of these rules. A single copy is free to Michigan  
residents.  
A copy of bulletin E-498 may also be obtained from the Michigan  
Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241,  
Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of 25 cents, plus  
shipping and handling.  
(c) All of the following operation and maintenance requirements shall be met:  
(i) Portions of the wastewater distribution system shall be capable of being taken  
out of service for maintenance and other operational activities and to provide rest to  
portions of the irrigation area without disrupting applications to other areas of the  
system.  
(ii) All areas within a system shall be accessible for maintenance equipment.  
(iii) For slow rate and overland flow treatment systems, the pH of the plow layer  
within the discharge area shall be maintained between 6.0 and 7.5 standard units.  
(iv) The discharge to a land treatment system shall be limited so that the discharge  
volume combined with the precipitation from a 10-year frequency, 24- hour duration  
rainfall event does not overflow the designed discharge area.  
(d) For the purposes of the issuance of a permit under R 323.2218, in  
determining discharge limitations, the department shall consider all of the following:  
(i) Past operating performance.  
(ii) The ability of the solum or the unsaturated soil column to treat the pollutants of  
concern in the discharge.  
(iii) Hydrogeologic characteristics of the site.  
(iv) Other pertinent information.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2234 Slow rate land treatment.  
Rule 2234.(1) Slow rate land treatment is the application of wastewater to a  
vegetated land surface with the applied wastewater being treated as it flows through  
the plant and soil matrix. A portion of the flow is expected to percolate to the  
groundwater while the remainder is utilized by plants or lost through evaporation. A  
facility utilizing a slow rate system for the land treatment of wastewater shall design  
and construct the system under this rule.  
(2) The wastewater loading volume shall be designed so that the wastewater will be  
absorbed and held within the effective rooting zone of the vegetative cover established on  
the site receiving the wastewater.  
Page 51  
(3) The daily application rate, in inches per day of the wastewater, shall not exceed  
the permeability as determined by R 323.2233(2)(a)(v) multiplied by 24.  
(4) The header ditch drainage and the grading of the furrows, where utilized,  
shall be tested for equal liquid distribution before seeding.  
(5) The system shall be seeded with a mixture of perennial vegetative cover,  
which are grasses such as reed canary grass, tall fescue, and orchard grass, alone or in  
combination with legumes, such as clover, alfalfa, and birdsfoot trefoil, suited to the  
climate and the soil moisture conditions created as a result of the application of  
wastewater in accordance with the designed loading cycle. The department may  
approve alternative vegetative cover on a case-by- case basis, but may impose  
restrictions based upon the characteristics of the proposed alternative.  
(6) All furrow side slopes, where present, shall be designed and constructed  
to allow for periodic maintenance and or mechanical harvesting of vegetative cover.  
(7) The depth of the furrows of a ridge and furrow system, when utilized, shall be  
adequate to contain the highest proposed furrow stream. The furrow stream is the  
volume, in gallons per unit time, usually per minute, of wastewater discharged into  
the furrow.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2235 Overland flow treatment.  
Rule 2235.(1) Overland flow treatment of wastewater is the application of  
wastewater to the upper reaches of grass-covered slopes with excess wastewater  
collected at the end of the slopes for reapplication. A facility utilizing an overland flow  
system for the land treatment of wastewater shall design and construct the system under  
this rule.  
(2) A system may be constructed on a site that has slowly permeable soil, which is  
soil that has 50% or more of the soil particles pass through a no. 200 sieve, except that  
more permeable or coarser textured soil may be approved on a case-by-case basis  
depending on system design and wastewater strength. Suitable soil shall extend not  
less than 3 feet below the soil surface.  
(3) The system shall consist of an adequate number of cells that can be alternately  
loaded and rested, unless there is adequate storage or pretreatment, to allow loading  
and resting of a single cell.  
(4) The shape of each cell within the system shall be designed to minimize soil  
disturbance when constructing the system.  
(5) For a system utilizing more than 1 cell, the wastewater distribution system  
shall be designed and constructed so that individual cells within the system can be taken  
out of service for resting or other purposes without disruption to the remaining cells.  
(6) The header ditch drainage and the grading of the furrows, where utilized,  
shall be tested for equal liquid distribution before seeding.  
(7) All embankments and dikes shall be properly seeded in order to establish  
appropriate vegetative cover for the purpose of erosion prevention.  
(8) All furrow side slopes, where present, shall be designed and constructed  
to allow for the periodic maintenance and mechanical harvesting of vegetative cover.  
Page 52  
(9) The depth of the furrows of a ridge and furrow system, when utilized, shall be  
adequate to contain the highest proposed furrow stream. The furrow stream is the  
volume, in gallons per unit time, usually per minute, of wastewater discharged into  
the furrow.  
(10) The system shall be seeded with perennial grass, or other vegetation approved  
by the department as capable of high nutrient uptake, and be suited to the climate and  
soil moisture conditions created by the operation of the system. Vegetative cover, not  
less than 2 inches in length and capable of preventing significant erosion to furrows or  
embankments, shall be established before the system is used for wastewater treatment.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2236 Rapid infiltration.  
Rule 2236.(1) Rapid infiltration is the application of wastewater to areas of  
moderately to highly permeable soil. The majority of applied wastewater percolates  
through the soil, and the treated effluent drains naturally to groundwater. The effluent  
is minimally treated as it travels through the soil matrix. Vegetation is not typically a  
part of the overall treatment process. The utilization of vegetation or its presence  
within a discharge area typically does not interfere with system performance. A  
facility utilizing rapid infiltration systems for the land treatment of wastewater shall  
design  
and construct the system under this rule.  
(2) The system shall consist of 2 or more cells or absorption areas that can be  
alternately loaded and rested or consist of 1 cell or absorption area preceded by an  
effluent storage or stabilization pond system. If only 1 cell or absorption area is  
provided, then the storage or stabilization pond shall be operated on a fill and draw basis  
and have sufficient capacity to allow intermittent loading of the cell or absorption area.  
(3) For a system that has more than 1 cell or absorption area, an individual cell  
or absorption area of the system shall be capable of being taken out of service without  
disrupting application to other cells or absorption areas of the system.  
(4)  
An appropriate hydraulic loading cycle shall be developed and  
implemented to maximize long-term infiltration rates and allow for periodic  
maintenance.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2237 Wastewater treatment or storage lagoons.  
Rule 2237.(1) Except as provided in subrule (4) of this rule, wastewater treatment  
or storage lagoons associated with a discharge shall consist of a composite liner with a  
base that meets the requirements of subrule (2) of this rule and a liner as described in  
subrule (3) of this rule.  
(2) The base of the composite liner required by this rule shall be a natural soil  
barrier that meets the criteria of subdivision (a) of this subrule, a compacted soil  
barrier that meets the criteria of subdivision (b) of this subrule, or a geocomposite clay  
liner that meets the criteria of subdivision (c) of this subrule as follows:  
Page 53  
(a) A natural soil barrier used as a base in a composite liner system shall meet all  
of the following requirements:  
(i) The natural soil shall be free of sand lenses and not less than 10 feet thick.  
(ii) The soil shall have a saturated vertical hydraulic conductivity of not more than  
1 x 10-7 centimeters per second. The hydraulic conductivity of the soil shall be  
determined using ASTM method D5084-90, which is adopted by reference in R  
323.2238, as modified by the department in R 299.4920. If flexible wall permeameters  
are used, then confining pressures shall be equivalent to the minimum pressure  
expected after the lagoon is placed in service.  
(iii) For abovegrade construction or if the lagoon liner base does not extend to the  
ground surface, perimeter dike walls shall be constructed using a soil that meets the  
criteria of subdivision (b)(ii) and (iii) of this subrule and keyed into the natural soil  
base.  
(iv) The natural soil liner surface shall be prepared for placement of the flexible  
membrane liner (FML) to remove the potential for failures to the FML.  
(v) Alternative test and investigative methods may be approved by the  
department.  
(vi) An engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as  
amended, being §339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the  
occupational code, shall certify to the department, through spatially random testing and  
measurements, that the requirements of this rule were met during installation of the  
natural soil base of the composite liner. At least 1 soil test shall be conducted and  
an additional test shall be conducted for every 5,000 cubic yards placed and when the  
texture of the soil changes.  
(b) A compacted soil liner used as a segment of the composite liner system shall  
meet all of the following requirements:  
(i) The compacted soil liner shall have a minimum thickness of 2 feet.  
(ii) The relationship between hydraulic conductivity, moisture, and density  
shall be established with laboratory testing for the source of clay that will serve as the  
compacted clay portion of the composite liner. The relationship shall be determined  
using either the modified proctor test, ASTM D1557-91, which is adopted by reference  
in R 323.2238, or the standard proctor test, ASTM D698- 91, which is adopted by  
reference in R 323.2238.  
(iii) Each lift shall be thoroughly and uniformly compacted to achieve a hydraulic  
conductivity of not more than 1 x 10-7 centimeters per second based upon the density and  
moisture content determined under subdivision(b)(ii) of this subrule. The hydraulic  
conductivity of the soil shall be determined  
using ASTM method D5084-90, which is adopted by reference in R 323.2238, as  
modified by the department in R 299.4920. If flexible wall permeameters are used, then  
confining pressures shall be equivalent to the minimum pressure expected after the  
lagoon is placed in service. Soil shall not be compacted at a moisture content that is less  
than optimum and shall not be compacted to  
less than either of the following densities:  
(A) Ninety percent of the maximum dry density, as determined by the modified  
proctor test, ASTM D1557-91, which is adopted by reference in R 323.2238.  
Page 54  
(B) Ninety-five percent of the maximum dry density, as determined by the  
standard proctor test, ASTM D698-91, which is adopted by reference in R 323.2238.  
(iv) The soil shall be placed so that each lift shall not be more than 6 inches after  
compaction.  
(v) For abovegrade construction or if the lagoon liner base does not extend to  
the ground surface, perimeter dike walls shall be constructed using a soil that meets the  
criteria of paragraphs (ii) and (iii) of this subdivision and keyed into the compacted  
soil base.  
(vi) The compacted soil liner surface shall be prepared for placement of the FML  
to remove the potential for failures of the FML.  
(vii) Alternative test and investigative methods may be approved by the  
department.  
(viii) An engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as  
amended, being §339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the  
occupational code, shall certify to the department, through spatially random testing and  
measurements, that the requirements of this rule were met during installation of the  
compacted soil base of the composite liner. At least 1 soil test of the compacted soil  
shall be conducted and an additional test shall be conducted for every 5,000 cubic yards  
placed and when the texture of the soil changes.  
(c) A geocomposite clay liner (GCL) used as a segment of a composite liner shall  
meet all of the following requirements:  
(i) The GCL shall be a factory-manufactured hydraulic barrier consisting of  
sodium betonite clay supported by geotextiles that are held together by needling,  
stitching, or adhesives.  
(ii) The GCL shall be seamed according to the manufacturer's  
specifications to prevent leakage at the seams.  
(iii) The GCL shall not be laid during a precipitation event and shall be covered  
immediately by a flexible membrane liner or by another protective cover until the  
flexible membrane liner can be laid directly over the GCL.  
(iv)  
The GCL shall be installed according to  
the  
manufacturer's  
specifications and quality assurance and quality control plans and shall be certified by  
an engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as amended, being  
R 339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the occupational code,  
overseeing the installation of the composite liner.  
(3) An FML required by this rule shall be placed directly over a liner described in  
subrule (2) of this rule to form the composite liner. The FML and its installation shall  
comply with all of the following requirements:  
(a) The liner shall be a minimum of 40 mils thick polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or 60  
mils thick high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The discharger may utilize other  
materials and thickness if the department determines before installation, that the  
proposed material and thickness are sufficient to ensure that the integrity of the liner is  
not compromised due to contact with the soil base, wastewater, climatic conditions, or the  
stress of installation or daily operation.  
(b) An FML shall be covered immediately after placement by an adequate  
thickness of soil or other material approved by the department to prevent puncture by  
Page 55  
equipment and to protect the exposed portion of the FML from degradation by  
ultraviolet light.  
(c) The FML shall be placed upon a foundation or base capable of providing  
support to the liner and resistance to pressure gradients above and below the liner to  
prevent slope failure and failure of the liner due to settlement, compression, or uplift.  
(d) The FML shall be installed to cover the entire area of earth material that would  
be in contact with the treated or stored effluent.  
(e) An FML shall be placed on slopes that are not more than 25%, unless the  
owner and operator can demonstrate slope stability for greater slopes.  
(f) The field seams of an FML shall meet all of the following requirements:  
(i) Seaming shall be done in accordance with the minimum industry standards.  
The shear strength and peel strength of the seams must be adeqaute to maintain the  
ingetrity of the seam under all operating conditions.  
(ii) Horizontal seams shall not occur on side slopes.  
(iii) Horizontal seams shall be located not less than 5 feet from the toe of the slope.  
(iv) Field seams shall be installed parallel to the line of maximum slope.  
(v) The seam area shall be free of moisture, dust, dirt, debris, and foreign  
material of any kind before seaming.  
(vi) Field seaming shall not be done in weather conditions that would adversely  
affect the integrity of the seam.  
(g) An engineer licensed under Act No. 299 of the Public Acts of 1980, as  
amended, being §339.101 et seq. of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and known as the  
occupational code, shall certify to the department that all necessary quality assurance  
testing was conducted to ensure that the FML was installed to meet the conditions of  
these rules.  
(4) The department may approve a storage or treatment lagoon liner that does not  
meet 1 or more of the requirements of this rule if the applicant demonstrates that the  
requirements of either of the following provisions are met:  
(a) The lagoon holds only wastewater that meets the standards of R 323.2222.  
(b) The existing system or the proposed design provides equal or greater  
environmental protection to protection provided by a lagoon liner constructed according  
to this rule. For an existing system, the demonstration can be made by either of the  
following:  
(i) Through an exfiltration test that demonstrates, to the department's satisfaction,  
that the lagoon is not leaking at a rate likely to impact groundwater above the  
standards described in R 323.2222.  
(ii) Through monitoring of the groundwater and a demonstration approved by the  
department that the lagoon has not impacted, and is not likely to impact, groundwater  
above the standards described in R 323.2222.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2238 ASTM standards; adoption by reference.  
Rule 2238.(1) The following ASTM standards are adopted by reference in these  
rules:  
Page 56  
(a) D698-91E1, test method for laboratory compaction characteristics of soil  
using standard effort.  
(b) D1557-91E1, test method for laboratory compaction characteristics of soil  
using modified effort.  
(c) D1586-84(92)E1, standard method for penetration test and split-barrel sampling  
of soils.  
(d) D5084-90, standard test method for hydraulic conductivity of saturated porous  
materials using a flexible wall permeameter.  
(2) The standards listed in subrule (1) of this rule may be purchased from the  
American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West  
Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of  
$18.00 each. The standards listed may also be obtained from the Michigan  
Department of Environmental Quality, Waste Management Division, P.O. Box 30241,  
Lansing, Michigan 48909, at a cost at the time of adoption of these rules of $18.00  
each, plus shipping and handling.  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
R 323.2240 Table 101; treatment technology standards for certain organic  
substances.  
Rule 2240. Table 101 reads as follows:  
Table 101  
Substance  
Treatment Technology Standard (ug/l)  
1,1,1-trichloroethane  
1,2,4-trichlorobenzene  
1,2-dichlorobenzene  
1,3-dichlorobenzene  
1,4-dichlorobenzene  
2,4,6-trichlorophenol  
2,4-dichlorophenol  
2,4-dimethylphenol  
2-butanone (MEK)  
2-chloronaphthalene  
2-chlorophenol  
15.  
15.  
25.  
25.  
15.  
15.  
20.  
80.  
450.  
40.  
5.  
2-methylphenol (o-cresol)  
4-methylphenol (p-cresol)  
Acenaphthene  
Acrolein  
Aniline  
Anthracene  
Benzoic acid  
Butyl benzyl phthalate  
Chlorobenzene  
Chrysene  
20.  
10.  
40.  
15.  
60.  
40.  
400.  
40.  
15.  
20.  
35.  
Di-n-butyl phthalate  
Page 57  
Di-n-octyl phthalate  
Dichlorodifluoromethane  
Diethyl phthalate  
Dimethyl phthalate  
Ethylbenzene  
Hexachloroethane  
Naphthalene  
Phenol  
Pyrene  
Styrene  
C-1,2-dichloroethylene  
T-1,2-dichloroethylene  
Toluene  
25.  
40.  
35.  
35.  
25.  
25.  
15.  
35.  
30.  
20.  
5.  
5.  
35.  
35.  
Xylene (o,m,p)  
History: 1980 AACS; 1998-2000 AACS  
Page 58  
;