Compliance with source-specific rule requirements is only
part of the clean air picture.
Most AQMD rules and permit conditions are designed to limit
or control emissions from specific types of equipment and/or processes. But compliance
with these source-specific permit conditions and rule requirements is only part of the
clean air picture.
Sources which create visible emissions, a public nuisance
or fugitive dust may be cited for failure to comply with AQMD
Rule 401 (Visible Emissions
-pdf 12 kb) or Rule 402 (Public Nuisance
- pdf 8 kb) or Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust-
pdf 72 kb) even when
they are in full compliance with all other applicable permit conditions and rule
requirements.
Visible emissions violations can occur when a source
produces uncontrolled smoke, dust, or other particulate matter that reduces visibility and
impedes air quality. AQMD inspectors trained to evaluate visible emissions determine
whether the relative opacity (density) of airborne particulate matter is great enough to
warrant enforcement action.
Public nuisance violations can occur when a considerable number of
individuals complain to AQMD of odors, paint overspray, or other bothersome conditions
that appear to be related to the operation of a business in the neighboring vicinity. An
AQMD Inspector may be dispatched to investigate such complaints in order to determine
whether an alleged source is jeopardizing the public health, safety, or welfare, or
creating local property damage.
Fugitive dust violations occur when significant (>20% opacity) dust
emission are generated from activities such excavation, grading, weed
abatement, stockpiling and similar activities or from dirt surfaces that have
been disturbed as a result of one of these activities. In addition, a
violation can also occur when the dust is visible past the property line of
the emission source or when dirt/mud is tracked out onto the public roads form
more than 25 feet.
Owners and operators of businesses with a high potential for
generating odors, overspray, smoke, or other "fugitive emissions" that can
threaten public health and welfare should take special precautions to avoid creating
visible emissions, a public nuisance or fugitive dust.
Using a paint spray booth or other equipment designed to capture volatile
emissions, operating during hours when fewer people are likely to be affected
by odors and fumes, and ensuring that pollution control equipment is
well-maintained and functioning properly are among the many ways in which
instances of non-compliance can be avoided.
