South Coast AQMD's permitting program implements federal, state, and local air quality rules and regulations for stationary sources that emit air pollutants (such as oxides of nitrogen (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM), etc.). All permit applications are evaluated for compliance with all applicable rules and regulations, including Public Notice requirements which look at factors such as air pollutant emissions, health risks, and distances to schools.
Types of South Coast AQMD Permits (Please note, some equipment require one or more of the following):
For installation of new or relocated equipment or alteration of existing equipment (including physical modification or change of operating conditions), where operation in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations must be demonstrated after construction is completed.
For equipment that is installed and has demonstrated operation in compliance with all rules and regulations. In cases of Off-the-Shelf type equipment, a one-step PC/PO might be issued.
Required under some South Coast AQMD rules and regulations (e.g., Rule 1150) to demonstrate compliance. Plans are typically not for equipment but apply to associated operations such as Ambient Air Monitoring Plans or Soil Excavation Plans.
Title V is a federal program designed to standardize air quality permits and the permitting process for major sources of emissions across the country. The name "Title V" comes from Title V of the 1990 federal Clean Air Act Amendments which requires the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a national, operating permit program.
REgional CLean Air Incentives Market is South Coast AQMD’s cap and trade program for large sources of NOx and SOx emissions. Currently, no new facilities are allowed to enter the RECLAIM program.
Permit Application Review Process
1
Once a permit application is submitted and received by South Coast AQMD, it is screened to ensure that the required information is provided and the associated fees are included.
2
The permit application is then sent to one of the engineering teams where it is reviewed to verify that it is complete and accurate. Incomplete applications may be rejected or the engineer may reach out to the applicant for additional information.
3
The permit application then undergoes a comprehensive review to determine if the equipment will be built and operated in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local rules, regulations, and policies. During this stage, the engineer will reach out to the applicant for additional information, and/or to discuss permit conditions needed to ensure compliance.
4
If the equipment can demonstrate compliance with all air quality requirements, a permit will be approved and issued, authorizing the construction and/or operation of equipment.
5
If compliance with air quality requirements cannot be demonstrated during this process, then a permit application will be denied.