DEQ has secured a nearly $2.5 million settlement with Microsoft for air violations at Microsoft's data center in Leesburg, Loudoun County. This marks the largest civil penalty DEQ has ever secured from a data center.
This enforcement action illustrates the cost of noncompliance with Virginia’s laws and regulations. The settlement will fund additional air quality monitoring initiatives throughout the state.
After three public town hall meetings to accept input for the new 2026 Environmental Justice in the Permitting Guidance, DEQ is excited to announce the release of the draft guidanceand is accepting public comment on the document until Oct. 23.
To celebrate Food Waste Prevention week, DEQ is proud to introduce the new "Crack Down on Food Waste" campaign, designed by a William & Mary student to engage the Commonwealth in reducing food waste.
While many are focused on returning to school, the changing of the leaves, and the end of summer—DEQ water supply scientists are marking the start of a new year. The hydrologic year, which measures precipitation totals over a 12-month period, runs from Oct. 1 until Sept. 30 to coincide with natural groundwater and streamflow patterns. Join us for a retrospective of the 2026 Water Year.
We are honored and excited to share that Virginia Economic Development Partnership has named DEQ a 2026 InternshipsVA Top Employer for Interns in recognition of our innovative high-quality, paid internship program.
Visit the DEQ website for comment opportunities on pending enforcement orders and permit actions. The following regulatory actions are available for public comment:
Notice of Intended Regulatory Action (NOIRA)- Virginia Water Protection (VWP) General Permit for Minimal Surface Water Impacts (9VAC25-700)- Development of Virginia Water Protection (VWP) General Permit for Minimal Surface Water Impacts - submit comments by Oct. 7.
Fast-track Regulatory Action- Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management Regulation (9VAC25-875)- Amend the Virginia Erosion and Stormwater Management (VESM) Regulation to improve the efficiency of permit fee collection - submit comments by Oct. 7.
Fast-track Regulatory Action- Virginia Water Protection Permit Program Regulation (9VAC25‑210) - Fast-track amendment to the Virginia Water Protection Permit Program Regulation (9VAC25-210) in response to changes to the Local and Regional Water Supply Planning Regulation (9VAC25-780) - submit comments by Oct. 21.
Employment Opportunities
Are you committed to protecting human health and the environment? Apply for a job at DEQ. Current openings include:
