Texas Wastewater Class B Practice Exam

What factor can lead TCEQ to take enforcement action against a facility?

1. Compliance with local regulations

2. Unauthorized discharge of pollutants

3. Maintaining a high level of treatment efficiency

4. Routine inspection by staff

The correct answer is: Unauthorized discharge of pollutants

The option related to unauthorized discharge of pollutants is indeed the correct answer. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is responsible for enforcing environmental regulations in Texas, particularly regarding water quality. When a facility discharges pollutants into water bodies without the necessary permits or beyond permissible limits, it is considered a violation of environmental laws. Such actions can have serious environmental impacts, prompting TCEQ to take enforcement actions to ensure compliance and protect public health and the environment. The other factors do not inherently lead to enforcement. Compliance with local regulations suggests that the facility is operating within the bounds of the law, which typically prevents enforcement actions. Maintaining a high level of treatment efficiency is a positive indicator of a facility's operations and would not trigger enforcement. Routine inspection by staff is part of the regulatory process but does not itself result in enforcement unless violations are found during those inspections.