Air Pollution Control

The agency is responsible for air pollution/air quality control in the region of Southern California which encompasses Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Services include air pollution control, odor control, vehicle emission control, and community information/education. There are no geographic restrictions.

The agency develops and regularly updates rules which regulate allowable emission levels from stationary sources of pollution; monitors the emission levels of facilities such as oil refineries, power plants, chemical plants, dry cleaners, paint spray booths and service stations through a network of 34 24-hour tracking stations; and issues citations to industries, businesses and individuals who violate established standards. Companies under AQMD jurisdiction must obtain permits to build, alter and run equipment that either causes or controls air pollution, and facilities which have approved permits are checked regularly by trained inspectors. The agency also has the authority to implement certain transportation controls and has programs to develop clean fuels.

In addition, the agency issues health warnings when air quality reaches unhealthful levels, and operates a number of toll-free lines which provide recorded information about air quality and the emergency action plan for the region or which allow people to register air pollution, smoking vehicle, non-agricultural related odors or service station nozzle complaints. Technical assistance, consultation and public speakers are also available.