[DEQ] DEQ launches streamlined permitting system

DEQ launches streamlined permitting system

Aug. 31, 2015    

For More Information:
Karen Tommasulo, DEQ, 517-284-6716, tommasulok@michigan.gov
Caleb Buhs, DTMB, 517-241-7422, buhsc@michigan.gov 
Peter Ostlund, DEQ, 517-898-5128, ostlundp@michigan.gov 

The process to obtain environmental permits required by the federal government just got easier in Michigan thanks to the launch of a new information system designed to streamline the permit application and compliance process.  

The DEQ and Department of Technology, Management and Budget collaborated to develop the MiWaters system, a comprehensive, web-based permitting and compliance database. MiWaters replaces more than 25 applications and databases, some of which were more than 30 years old. This is part of a larger project to replace Michigan’s aging IT systems throughout state government. 

MiWaters’ streamlined electronic permitting process allows Michigan to fulfill federal electronic reporting requirements and provides an easy online portal for access to public information. The system simplifies the permitting process for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), storm water, groundwater discharge, aquatic nuisance control, and land and water interface permits. It also includes electronic reporting of untreated or partially treated sanitary wastewater.

MiWaters is the first new production system hosted in DTMB’s Next Generation Digital Infrastructure (NGDI). The new infrastructure is Michigan’s on-demand cloud hosting service, allowing the state to quickly adapt to increased capacity needs as demand dictates.

The MiWaters application can be accessed at https://miwaters.deq.state.mi.us. A series of on-demand tutorials demonstrating how to use the system are available at www.michigan.gov/deq/0,4561,7-135-3313_72753-360888--,00.html.