The Voluntary Remediation Program (VRP) encourages hazardous substance cleanups that might not otherwise take place. The program is a streamlined mechanism for site owners or operators to voluntarily address contamination sites with support from DEQ. The main goals are site redevelopment and enhanced environmental outcomes. 

By overseeing the process, DEQ is able to ensure that the cleanup achieves a satisfactory level of human health and environmental protection. The program is not intended to serve as an alternative to or refuge from applicable laws, regulatory requirements or enforcement actions.

When the Participant demonstrates the goals have been met and the DEQ accepts all work, DEQ issues a Certification of Satisfactory Completion of Remediation (Certificate). This Certificate provides assurance that the remediated site will not later become subject to DEQ enforcement action (unless new issues are discovered).

The program facilitates the sale and reuse of industrial and commercial properties in the Commonwealth, which benefits all Virginians, especially property buyers and sellers. Participation decreases potential environmental liabilities of reusing or further developing existing commercial properties as well as the expansion of commercial sites onto pristine lands. These goals are shared with DEQ's Brownfields Program and the two programs often work as one.

Support and Outreach

DEQ understands that time is money and wants to do all it can to help complete these beneficial projects quickly and efficiently. DEQ appreciates all participation in the program and continues looking for ways to add value to projects. VRP participants seeking a consultant or other service provider may find candidates in the Brownfields Marketplace.

Current and Historical Site Information

Current and historical VRP site addresses, with selected site data are available through the DEQ Open Data Portal: Land Datasets. For additional information about a particular site, please contact program staff.

Lunchtime Learning Series

A Lunchtime Training Series for those working with VRP will cover topics of interest. Presentations will be linked below after the training is complete. To stay informed on future trainings please sign up for our VRP Newsletter.

Applications and Certificates 4/12/2023

Other DEQ Programs of Potential Interest

Pollution Response

DEQ's Pollution Response Program (PREP) responds to pollution incidents that may impact air, land and water to protect human health and the environment.

Petroleum Storage Tanks

DEQ’s Petroleum Storage Tank Program works to prevent, monitor and clean-up petroleum releases from storage tanks.

Solid and Hazardous Waste

DEQ regulations require the management of Solid & Hazardous Waste in a manner to protect human health and the environment.

RCRA Corrective Action

Federal law requires states to investigate and clean up hazardous chemicals that pose an unacceptable risk at Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) hazardous waste facilities. This program requires investigation and cleanup of hazardous releases that pose an unacceptable risk at RCRA hazardous waste facilities and is implemented in accordance with the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments of 1984.