Title 33: Navigation and Navigable Waters
Clean Water Act, waterway navigation, flood control, wetlands protection, Army Corps of Engineers, and oil spill liability.
51 chapters · 1,034 sections · 5 key sections available
Key Sections (5)
Clean Water Act — Congressional Declaration of Goals and Policy
The Clean Water Act aims to eliminate water pollution and maintain healthy waterways. It sets pollution limits, requires permits for discharges, and funds wastewater treatment, with states taking a primary role.
Oil and Hazardous Substance Liability — Prohibition of Discharges
Oil and hazardous substance spills into U.S. waters are prohibited. Responsible parties must immediately report any discharge and are liable for all cleanup costs and resulting damages.
Clean Water Act Section 404 — Permits for Dredged or Fill Material
Section 404 permits are required to fill or dredge wetlands and waterways. The Army Corps of Engineers issues the permits, but the EPA can veto any site if it would cause unacceptable environmental harm.
Oil Pollution Act — Definitions and Liability
The Oil Pollution Act holds parties responsible for oil spill cleanup costs and damages. Liability limits exist but are removed if the spill resulted from gross negligence or willful misconduct.
Clean Water Act
Establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into U.S. waters and sets water quality standards for surface waters. Requires permits for point source discharges.