Feb. 5, 2003
Fulfilling one of its environmental justice goals, the Southland’s air
quality agency has launched an Internet-based system
allowing members of the public to find out whether
specific facilities have received air pollution violation notices.
"This new feature will allow anyone with Internet access to review a
facility’s compliance history," said Barry Wallerstein, executive officer of the
South Coast Air Quality Management District.
The new database contains information on Notices of Violation, and Notices to
Comply (for minor violations), issued by AQMD to facilities in its four-county
jurisdiction.
Users can look up violation notices by facility name, street address, city or
AQMD rule number within a specified time frame. The database contains detailed
information on each notice including a description of the violation.
AQMD issues a Notice of Violation to a business when it determines the
business has failed to comply with an AQMD rule or permit, or a state or federal
air pollution requirement. Businesses must first correct whatever problem has
led to the violation. They may also face penalties. In addition, some companies
agree to carry out projects to benefit air quality above and beyond AQMD rule
requirements.
AQMD issues a Notice to Comply for minor violations that typically involve
recordkeeping or administrative matters as defined in AQMD’s
Rule 112.
AQMD’s Governing Board adopted 10 environmental justice initiatives in 1997.
Last fall, the Board approved 23 enhancements to the program, including the
online violation database.
To access the database, go to AQMD’s home page at www.aqmd.gov, click on
Compliance Program, then click on Public Inquiry System, or go directly to
http://www.aqmd.gov/nov/default.htm
AQMD is the air pollution control agency for Orange County and major portions
of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
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