The primary function of Golden's industrial waste pretreatment program is to prevent the introduction of pollutants into the sanitary sewer system that could interfere with the operation of the wastewater treatment plant, cause damage to the sewer system or pass through the treatment plant to Clear Creek. Regulation of businesses and industries through this program ensures the protection of the environment and the safety of wastewater treatment personnel, as well as the local community.

More specifically, the program does the following:

• Monitors and assists local businesses and industries for compliance
   
• Administers pretreatment discharge permits
   
• Provides education regarding best management practices, pollution prevention and waste minimization
   
• Responds to illicit discharges to the sanitary sewer system
   
• Oversees National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) - Pretreatment regulations