Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 020 - Environmental Quality, Dept. of
1. What the Wyoming Administrative Code (WAC) Is
The Wyoming Administrative Code is a collection of all administrative rules adopted by state agencies in Wyoming. These rules are created under the authority granted by the Wyoming Legislature. In other words, the legislature passes laws, and the agencies create detailed rules to implement those laws.
Law vs. Rule: Laws are broad statements passed by lawmakers. Rules explain how those laws will be applied in practical situations.
Format: The WAC is organized by agency numbers, each assigned to a specific department or board. Agency 020 is for the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
2. Agency 020 – Department of Environmental Quality
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is responsible for protecting the state’s environment. Its rules cover areas like air, water, waste, and other environmental concerns.
Agency 020 in the WAC contains all the rules the DEQ enforces. These rules implement Wyoming environmental laws and ensure compliance with both state and federal regulations.
3. Divisions Within Agency 020
Agency 020 is divided into divisions, each focusing on a specific area of environmental quality. Here are the main ones:
Air Quality Division
Regulates emissions from industrial sources, vehicles, and other activities that affect air quality.
Implements the Clean Air Act at the state level.
Issues permits for air emissions, sets emission limits, and monitors compliance.
Water Quality Division
Protects rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
Issues permits for wastewater discharge, monitors pollutants, and ensures compliance with the Clean Water Act.
Maintains water quality standards for drinking water, recreation, and fish/wildlife habitats.
Land Quality Division
Regulates activities like mining, landfills, and surface disturbances.
Ensures reclamation of disturbed lands (like old mining sites).
Issues permits for mining operations and monitors compliance with land reclamation rules.
Solid & Hazardous Waste Division
Oversees the management of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
Ensures proper storage, transport, and disposal to prevent contamination.
Implements rules for landfills, chemical storage, and cleanup of hazardous sites.
Environmental Quality Administration
Provides oversight and support for the other divisions.
Handles enforcement, policy guidance, and public reporting.
4. Structure of Rules in Agency 020
The rules are organized by Chapters and Sections, usually in this format:
Chapter: Covers a broad topic (e.g., air quality, water quality).
Section: Covers specific rules under that topic (e.g., emission limits, permit procedures).
Example structure:
Chapter 1 – General Provisions: Defines terms like “pollutant” or “discharge,” and explains the DEQ’s authority.
Chapter 2 – Air Quality Rules: Includes emissions limits, monitoring requirements, and penalties for violations.
Chapter 3 – Water Quality Rules: Includes standards for effluent, permits, and monitoring methods.
Chapter 4 – Land Quality Rules: Addresses mine reclamation, waste disposal, and inspections.
Chapter 5 – Hazardous Waste Rules: Covers storage, transport, and disposal of dangerous chemicals.
5. Key Functions of Agency 020 Rules
The rules serve several purposes:
Protection of Public Health and Environment – by controlling pollutants in air, water, and soil.
Guidance for Businesses and Individuals – by explaining what permits are required and how to comply with environmental laws.
Enforcement – by establishing penalties for non-compliance, fines, and corrective actions.
Coordination with Federal Law – like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
Permit System – requiring certain industries to obtain permits before operating, ensuring monitoring and reporting.
6. How Citizens Interact with Agency 020
Permits: Individuals or companies must apply for permits for certain activities (like wastewater discharge or mining).
Compliance Reporting: Businesses report emissions, waste disposal, and water usage.
Public Participation: Citizens can comment on proposed rules or participate in public hearings.
Enforcement Actions: Citizens can report violations of environmental laws to DEQ.
7. Why It Matters
Agency 020’s rules are critical because Wyoming has heavy industries like mining, oil and gas, and agriculture. The DEQ rules ensure that these activities don’t harm air, water, or land. Without these rules:
Rivers could be polluted.
Air quality could drop.
Hazardous waste could contaminate communities.
✅ In short:
The Wyoming Administrative Code, Agency 020, is the rulebook for the Department of Environmental Quality. It provides detailed instructions for protecting air, water, and land in Wyoming, ensuring compliance with state and federal environmental laws, and guiding businesses and citizens on environmental responsibilities.
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