Animal Feeding Operations

An animal feeding operation (AFO) is defined as a lot or facility where animals are stabled or confined for a total of 45 days or more in any 12-month period, and crops or vegetative growth is not maintained in the normal growing season over the lot or facility.

Animal feeding operations that confine more than 300 animal units of livestock and handle liquid manure are required to obtain coverage under either a Virginia Pollution Abatement (VPA) general or individual permit. These facilities may apply for coverage by submitting the registration statement for the Virginia Pollution Abatement General Permit for Animal Feeding Operations (see Permits and Fees).

Poultry operations that confine more than 20,000 chickens or 11,000 turkeys must register for coverage under the Virginia Pollution Abatement General Permit for Poultry Waste Management (see Permits and Fees).

Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) may be required to register for coverage under a VPDES general or individual permit (see VPDES Requirements for Confined Animal Feeding Operations).

In addition, all nutrient management plans for all permitted animal feeding operations must be revised to include phosphorus by December 31, 2006.

For additional information see DEQ's Agricultural web page.