The Section 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) is a state-driven process required by any applicant for a federal license or permit that may result in a discharge into navigable waters. The Certification ensures that the discharge complies with state water quality standards, as well as other appropriate requirements of state law. Essentially, Section 401 gives states the authority to enforce water quality standards on federally regulated activities. The Section 401 Permit is administered by the ORES.

The Section 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) is a state-driven process required by any applicant for a federal license or permit that may result in a discharge into navigable waters. The Certification ensures that the discharge complies with state water quality standards, as well as other appropriate requirements of state law. Essentially, Section 401 gives states the authority to enforce water quality standards on federally regulated activities. The Section 401 Permit is administered by the ORES.