Commercial Wastewater Discharge Exemption

Discharging commercial wastewater into the sewer system or surface water is regulated under the Environment and Planning Act (Omgevingswet). If your business produces wastewater that does not meet the standard discharge requirements, you need an exemption from the municipality or waterschap (water authority) to discharge it legally.

The exemption application is assessed based on the type and quantity of substances in your wastewater and the capacity of the local treatment system. Conditions may include pre-treatment of wastewater before discharge, periodic sampling, and reporting obligations. The municipality or waterschap supervises compliance and can revoke the exemption if conditions are not met.