State regulators have put Suncor's Commerce City refinery on notice – the refinery has about three years to drastically cut the amount of toxic chemicals it releases into nearby water sources. The new requirements come as the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released a new water quality permit for Suncor on Wednesday. The state said the 82-page document is the most protective water quality permit Colorado has issued for Suncor. “The permit will ensure that Suncor’s facilities operate effectively while holding the facility accountable and ensuring cleaner, safer water in the surrounding community,” said Nicole Rowan, division director of CDPHE’s water quality control division. “This is a big environmental win for Colorado, and we’re grateful for the strong stakeholder-driven work that went into this victory.” The last time Suncor renewed its permit was in 2012. The new permit, which takes effect May 1, 2024, has some significant changes to help protect drinking water. For the first time, the state said Suncor will have a limit on the amount of PFAS or "forever chemicals," that it can release into Sand Creek. The state hopes the new guidelines will help reduce public exposure. Another important source of drinking water is the Burlington Ditch, which runs through Suncor property. The company will now have to inspect it twice a month and after every rainfall or snow event. The permit also requires Suncor to limit releases of other toxic chemicals, such as benzene and arsenic, and send text notifications whenever spills occur.