Which permit governs discharges from vessels?

• A. National Primary drinking water regulations
• B. Electronic notice of intent
• C. Vessel general permit
• D. Total trihalomethanes

Answer: (C)

Discharges from vessels are regulated under the Vessel General Permit. This general permit, issued under the Clean Water Act’s NPDES program, covers discharges incidental to the normal operation of ships and boats—such as ballast water, bilge water, deck washdown, and certain wastewater streams—by establishing effluent limits and best management practices. It is specifically designed for maritime discharges, making it the appropriate permit for vessels. The other options don’t fit: drinking water regulations set standards for drinking water quality, not vessel discharges; an electronic notice of intent is a filing or notification, not the actual permit; and total trihalomethanes are a drinking water contaminant, not a permit.