Permit Requirements for Stationary Sources
Why are permits issued?
As
part of our effort to meet the air quality standards set forth by the Federal Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), our District has developed an air quality
improvement strategy or Air Quality Attainment Plan. District rules and regulations are the mechanism
by which the District enacts the attainment plan.
What are permits?
An
air quality permit is a document which authorizes the responsible party to emit a specified quantity
of pollution into the atmosphere over a given time period. Generally, the pollution is emitted from a
mechanical device, though containers and vessels are also subject to requirements. The permit lists the
equipment to be used, how the devices may be operated, how the permitted activity may proceed, and the
types of records and reports which must be generated. Depending upon the type of equipment or activity,
the permit will contain a list of requirements, known as permit conditions, which the responsible party
must adhere to in order to remain in compliance with the law. Examples of permit conditions include:
limitations on fuel usage, maximum emission rates, hours of operation, and the specific types of equipment
which must be used.
How does the permit process work?
The
permit process helps to establish limits on the types and quantity of air pollutants which may be emitted
during a given time period. Prior to beginning a new project or activity, businesses and the public must
first obtain an Authority To Construct permit from the District. Similar to the building permit process,
District staff reviews the
permit application
to determine completeness, reviews the proposed equipment
and estimated emissions to determine if they comply with air quality regulations, and reviews health
risk assessments to ensure levels of significance are not exceeded.
Permit applications
are processed in the order they are received; and, in accordance with the permit streamlining act, are completed and
returned to the applicant within 180 days.
Once
the equipment or facility is constructed, temporary operation may occur for a limited period of time under
a temporary permit to operate. This time period allows for the fine tuning of the equipment or process in
order to ensure that the equipment meets all air quality requirements. When the equipment is ready to begin
permanent operation, the applicant submits an application for a Permit To Operate. The Permit To Operate
establishes the standards by which the equipment must be continually operated. The operating permit is
renewed annually after a compliance inspection and an engineering review has been performed by District staff,
and full payment of fees has been received.
How do I apply?
Contact
the District to receive an application or
download
the appropriate forms from the website. An expedited permit
process is available for an additional fee. This optional service was designed to accommodate members of the
public whose projects may have time constraints.
What about fees?
D
ifferent fees apply depending on such factors as the type of equipment being permitted and the complexity of
the permit. If you would like an estimate of your fees, contact District staff at (707) 443-3093 or
support@ncuaqmd.org.
Where do I go now?
This
is only an introduction to the District permit process. For specific information about existing rules and
regulations, proposed rule changes, or to get started on your permit application, contact our District
office. Current Rules and Regulations are available on our website under Rules and Regulations. The
BACT Clearing House Resource Manual,
prepared by the California Air Resource Board and published in cooperation with California Air Pollution
Control Officers Association, contains a more detailed explanation of the California regulatory system,
planning requirements, and the NSR/PSD review process.
If you have any questions concerning permit requirements please contact the District staff at (707) 443-3093
or
support@ncuaqmd.org.