District Department of the Environment

The District Department of the Environment (DDOE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

DDOE has about 300 engineers, biologists, toxicologists, geologists, technicians, inspectors, environmental specialists, policy analysts, administrators, public outreach specialists, and support staff. Among their many responsibilities are issuing permits, monitoring environmental conditions, providing funding and technical assistance, assessing environmental risks, developing policies, inspecting facilities, enforcing environmental regulations, working with other entities to solve everyday environmental issues, and informing and educating the public on local environmental trends and their benefits.

The DDOE team promotes public and environmental health by implementing and enforcing District and Federal laws and regulations. We recognize that strong and healthy communities are central to the District’s economic prosperity, and work daily to protect the environment in which its people live, work and play.

Mission

The mission of the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) is to improve the quality of life for the residents and natural inhabitants of the nation’s capital by protecting and restoring the environment, conserving our natural resources, mitigating pollution, and educating the public on ways to secure a sustainable future.

Vision

The District Department of the Environment (DDOE) envisions a nation's capital that sets the standard for environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. We envision a city whose rivers and waters are fishable and swimmable; whose buildings and infrastructure help protect our health and environment; and whose residents, businesses, and visitors embrace and employ smart environmental practices in their daily lives and work together to deliver a clean, healthy, and vibrant city to future generations.