Water Quality Standards Regulations: Rhode Island

Presented are water quality standards in effect for Clean Water Act (CWA) purposes for this state.

The EPA is posting these standards as a convenience to users and has made a reasonable effort to assure their accuracy. For each document listed under "State Standards in Effect for CWA Purposes", the EPA has made a reasonable effort to identify parts of the standards that are disapproved or are otherwise not in effect for CWA purposes. Additionally, please note the documents may also contain provisions that the EPA does not have the authority and duty to act on under the Clean Water Act because the provisions are not water quality standards.

• What is a New or Revised Water Quality Standard Under CWA 303(c)(3)? - Frequently Asked Questions (pdf) (108.04 KB)

• State Standards in Effect for CWA Purposes
• Federally Proposed or Promulgated Standards

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State Standards in Effect for CWA Purposes

• Water Quality Regulations for Rhode Island (pdf) (41.37 MB)
  (Effective June 6, 2024) These regulations establish water quality standards for the State's surface waters.  Please note that some provisions in this document have not been approved by the EPA and are therefore not in effect for CWA purposes.  Refer to the cover page for more information.
• Combined Sewer Overflow Policy (pdf) (1.64 MB)
  This policy contains requirements and treatment technology standards to assure water quality standards are met for waters receiving combined sewer overflows.

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Federally Proposed or Promulgated Standards

• 40 CFR §131.36   Toxics criteria for those states not complying with Clean Water Act section 303(c)(2)(B)