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Rule 3.15 – Architectural Coatings

(Adopted 6/911991; Amended 5/96; Amended, 11/13/02, 8/04/2014)

A. GENERAL.

A.1 PURPOSE: To limit the quantity of Volatile Organic 

Compounds (VOCs) in architectural coatings supplied, sold, 

offered for sale, applied, solicited for application, or 

manufactured for use within the District.

A.2 APPLICABILITY: Except as provided in Section D.1 

belowsubsection A.4, this rule is applicable to any person 

who:

a. Supplies, sells, or offers for sale, or manufactures

any architectural coating for use within the District, 

as well as any person who ; or

b. Manufactures, blends, or repackages any architectural 

coating for use within the District; or

a.c. Applies or solicits the application of any 

architectural coating within the District.

d. Severability: If The VOC limits in Table 1 of this 

rule shall be effective on January 1, 2015.

e. The November 13, 2002 version of Rule 3.15, 

Architectural Coatings VOC limits shall remain in 

effect until January 1, 2015. This Section does not 

apply to any coating that does not display the date or 

date code required by Section D.1.a court of competent 

jurisdiction issues an orderof this rule.

A.2A.3 SEVERABILIY: Each provision of this rule shall be 

deemed severable, and in the event that any provision of 

this rule is held to be invalid, it is the intent of the 

Board of Directors of the District that other provisionsthe 

remainder of this rule remainshall continue in full force 

and affect, to the extent allowed by laweffect.

A.3A.4 EXEMPTIONS:

a. This rule does not apply to:

1. Any architectural coating that is supplied, sold, 

offered for sale, or manufactured for use outside of 

the District or for shipment to other manufacturers 

for reformulation or repackaging;.

2. Any aerosol coating product; or.
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b. With the exception of section E, this rule does not 

apply to any architectural coating that is sold in a 

container with a volume of one liter (1.057 quart) or 

less.

B. DEFINITIONS.

Adhesive:

B.1 ADHESIVE: Any chemical substance that is applied for the 

purpose of bonding two surfaces together other than by 

mechanical means.

B.2 AEROSOL COATING PRODUCT: A pressurized coating product 

containing pigments or resinsa resin that dispensedispenses

product ingredients by means of a propellant, and is 

packaged in a disposable can for hand-held application, or 

for use in specialized equipment for ground traffic/marking 

applications.

A.1 Antenna Coating: ALUMINUM ROOF COATING: A coating 

labeled and formulated exclusively for application to 

equipmentroofs and associated structural appurtenances 

that are used to receive or transmit electromagnetic 

signals.

B.3 Antifouling Coating: A containing at least 84 grams of 

elemental aluminum pigment per liter of coating labeled and 

formulated for application to submerged stationary 

structures and their appurtenances to prevent or reduce the 

attachment of marine or freshwater biological organisms. 

To qualify as an antifouling coating, the coating must(at 

least 0.7 pounds per gallon). Pigment content shall be 

registereddetermined in accordance with both the United 

States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the 

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 

U.S.C. Section 136, et seq.) and with the California 

Department of Pesticide RegulationSCAQMD Method 318-95, 

incorporated by reference in subsection F.5.d.

B.4 Appurtenances: APPURTENANCE: Any accessory to a stationary

structure coated at the site of installation, whether 

installed or detached, including, but not limited to: 

bathroom and kitchen fixtures; cabinets; concrete forms; 

doors; elevators; fences; hand railings; heating equipment, 

air conditioning equipment, and other fixed mechanical 

equipment or stationary tools; lampposts; partitions; pipes 
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and piping systems; rain -gutters and downspoutsdownspouts; stairways, fixed ladders, catwalks, and 

fire escapes; and window screens.

B.5 ARCHITECTURAL COATING: A coating to be applied to 

stationary structures andor their appurtenances at the site 

of installation, to portable buildings at the site of 

installation, to pavements, or to curbs. Coatings applied 

in shop applications or to non-stationary structures such 

as airplanes, ships, boats, railcars, and automobiles, and 

adhesives are not considered architectural coatings for the 

purposepurposes of this rule.

B.6 Bitumens: BASEMENT SPECIALTY COATING: A clear or opaque 

coating that is labeled and formulated for application to 

concrete and masonry surfaces to provide a hydrostatic seal 

for basements and other below-grade surfaces. Basement 

Specialty Coatings must meet the following criteria:

a. Coating must be capable of withstanding at least 10 psi 

of hydrostatic pressure, as determined in accordance 

with ASTM D7088-04, which is incorporated by reference 

in subsection F.5.l.; and

b. Coating must be resistant to mold and mildew growth and 

must achieve a microbial growth rating of 8 or more, as 

determined in accordance with ASTM D3273-00 and ASTM 

D3274-95, incorporated by reference in subsection 

F.5.s.

B.6B.7 BITUMENS: Black or brown materials, including, but not 

limited to, asphalt, tar, pitch, and asphaltite that are 

soluble in carbon disulfide, consist mainly of 

hydrocarbons, and are obtained from natural deposits or as 

residues from the distillation of crude petroleum or coal.

B.7B.8 BITUMINOUS ROOF COATING: A coating which incorporates 

bitumens that is labeled and formulated exclusively for 

roofing.

B.8B.9 BITUMINOUS ROOF PRIMER: A primer which incorporates 

bitumens that is labeled and formulated exclusively for 

roofing and intended for the purpose of preparing a 

weathered or aged surface or improving the adhesion of 

subsequent surfacing components.

B.9B.10 BOND Breakers: BREAKER: A coating labeled and 

formulated for application between layers of concrete to 
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prevent a freshly poured top layer of concrete from bonding 

to the layer over which it is poured.

A.2 Clear Brushing Lacquers: Clear wood finishes, 

excluding clear lacquer sanding sealers, formulated 

with nitrocellulose or synthetic resins to dry by 

solvent evaporation without chemical reaction and to 

provide a solid, protective film, which are intended 

exclusively for application by brush, and which are 

labeled as specified in Section D.1.a of this Rule.

A.3 Clear Wood Coatings: Clear and semi-transparent 

coatings, including lacquers and varnishes, applied to 

wood substrates to provide a transparent or 

translucent solid film.

B.10B.11 Coating: COATING: A material applied onto or 

impregnated into a substrate for protective, decorative, or 

functional purposes. Such materials include, but are not 

limited to, paints, varnishes, sealers, and stains.

B.11B.12 COLORANT: A concentrated pigment dispersion in water, 

solvent, and/or binder that is added to an architectural 

coating after packaging in sale units to produce the 

desired color.

B.13 CONCRETE CURING COMPOUND: A coating labeled and formulated 

for application to freshly poured concrete to perform one 

or more of the following functions:

a. Retard the evaporation of water.; or

b. Dry Fog Coating: Harden or dustproof the surface of 

freshly poured concrete.

B.14 CONCRETE/MASONRY SEALER: A clear or opaque coating that is 

labeled and formulated primarily for application to 

concrete and masonry surfaces to perform one or more of the 

following functions:

a. Prevent penetration of water; or

b. Provide resistance against abrasion, alkalis, acids, 

mildew, staining, or ultraviolet light; or

c. Harden or dustproof the surface of aged or cured 

concrete.
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B.15 DRIVEWAY SEALER: A coating labeled and formulated for 

application to worn asphalt driveway surfaces to perform 

one or more of the following functions:

a. Fill cracks; or

b. Seal the surface to provide protection; or

c. Restore or preserve the appearance.

B.12B.16 DRY FOG COATING: A coating labeled and formulated only 

for spray application such that overspray droplets dry 

before subsequent contact with incidental surfaces in the 

vicinity of the surface coating activity.

A.4 Exempt Compound: A chemical identified in the 

following list. Exempt compounds content of a coating 

shall be determined by South Coast Air Quality 

Management District Method 303-91 (Revised August 

1996), incorporated by reference in Section E.2.d.10 

of this Rule

carbon monoxide

carbon dioxide

carbonic acid

metallic carbides or carbonates

ammonium carbonate

methane

ethane

methylene chloride (dichloromethane)

1,1,1-trichloroethane (methyl chloroform)

1,1,2-trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane (CFC-113)

trichlorofluoromethane (CFC-11)

dichlorodifluoromethane (CFC-12)

chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22)

trifluoromethane (HFC-23)

1,2-dichloro-1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (CFC-114)

chloropentafluoroethane (CFC-115)

1,1,1-trifluoro-2,2-dichloroethane (HCFC-123)

1,1,1,2-tetra-fluoroethane (HFC-134a)

1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane (HCFC-141b)

1-chloro-1,1-difluoroethane (HCFC-142b)

2-chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HCFC-124)

pentafluoroethane (HFC-125)

1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134)

1,1,1-trifluoroethane (HFC-143a)

1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a)

parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF)

cyclic, branched, or linear, completely methylated 

siloxanes
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acetone

perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene)

3,3-dichloro-1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoropropane (HCFC-225ca)

1,3-dichloro-1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HCFC-225cb)

1,1,1,2,3,4,4,5,5,5-decafluoropropane (HFC 43-10mee)

difluoromethane (HFC-32)

ethylfluoride (HFC-161)

1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC-236fa)

1,1,2,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245ca)

1,1,2,3,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245ea)

1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245eb)

1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa)

1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC-236ea)

1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane (HFC-365mfc)

chlorofluoromethane (HCFC-31)

1 chloro-1fluoroethane (HCFC-151a)

1,2-dichloro-1,1,2-trifluoroethane (HCFC-123a)

1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4-nonafluoro-4-methoxy-butane 

(C4F9OCH3)

2-(difluoromethoxymethyl)-1,1,1,2,3,3,3-

heptafluoropropane ((CF3)2CFCF2OCH3))

1-ethoxy-1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,4-nonaflurobutane (C4F9OC2H5)

2-(ethoxydifluoromethyl)-1,1,1,2,3,3,3-

heptafluoropropane ((CF3)2CFCF2OC2H5)

methyl acetate

perfluorocarbon compounds which fall into these 

classes:

Cyclic, branched, or linear, completely fluorinated 

alkanes

Cyclic, branched, or linear, completely fluorinated 

ethers with no unsaturations

Cyclic, branched, or linear, completely fluorinated 

tertiary amines with no unsaturations

Sulfur containing perfluorocarbons with no 

unsaturations and with sulfur bonds only to carbon and 

fluorine

B.17 Faux Finishing Coating: EXEMPT COMPOUND: For purposes of 

this rule, a compound that has been identified by the US 

EPA (40 CFR 51.100) as having negligible photochemical 

reactivity.

B.18 FAUX FINISH COATING: A coating labeled and formulated as a 

stain or to meet one or more of the following criteria:

a. A glaze or textured coating used to create artistic 

effects, including, but not limited to,: dirt, suede, 
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old age, smoke damage, and simulated marble and wood 

grain.; or

b. Fire-Resistive Coating: An opaqueA decorative coating 

used to create a metallic, iridescent, or pearlescent 

appearance that contains at least 48 grams of 

pearlescent mica pigment or other iridescent pigment 

per liter of coating as applied (at least 0.4 pounds 

per gallon); or

c. A decorative coating used to create a metallic 

appearance that contains less than 48 grams of 

elemental metallic pigment per liter of coating as 

applied (less than 0.4 pounds per gallon), when tested 

in accordance with SCAQMD Method 318-95, incorporated 

by reference in subsection F.5.d.; or

d. A decorative coating used to create a metallic 

appearance that contains greater than 48 grams of 

elemental metallic pigment per liter of coating as 

applied (greater than 0.4 pounds per gallon) and which 

requires a clear topcoat to prevent the degradation of 

the finish under normal use conditions. The metallic 

pigment content shall be determined in accordance with 

SCAQMD Method 318-95, incorporated by reference in 

subsection F.5.d.; or

e. A clear topcoat to seal and protect a Faux Finishing 

coating that meets the requirements of subsection 

B.18.a, B.18.b, B.18.c, or B.18.d. These clear topcoats 

must be sold and used solely as part of a Faux 

Finishing coating system, and must be labeled in 

accordance with subsection D.1.d.

B.13B.19 FIRE-RESISTIVE COATING: A coating labeled and 

formulated to protect the structural integrity by 

increasing the fire endurance of interior or exterior steel 

and other structural materials, that has been fire tested 

and rated by a testing agency approved by building code 

officials for use in bringing assemblies of. The Fire 

Resistive category includes sprayed fire resistive 

materials and intumescent fire resistive coatings that are 

used to bring structural materials into compliance with 

federal, state, and local building code requirements. The 

fire-resistive coating and the testing agency must be 

approved by building code officials. The fire-resistive 

coatingFire Resistive coatings shall be tested in 

accordance with the American Society for Testing of 

Materials (ASTM) Designation E 119-9807, incorporated by 

reference in Section E.2.d.2 of this Rulesubsection F.5.a. 
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Fire Resistive coatings and testing agencies must be 

approved by building code officials.

A.5 Fire-Retardant Coating: A coating labeled and 

formulated to retard ignition and flame spread, that 

has been fire tested and rated by a testing agency 

approved by building code officials for use in 

bringing building and construction materials into 

compliance with federal, State, and local building 

code requirements. The fire-retardant coating and the 

testing agency must be approved by building code 

officials. The fire-retardant coating shall be tested 

in accordance with ASTM Designation E 84-99, 

incorporated by reference in Section E.2.d.1 of this 

Rule.

B.14B.20 Flat Coating: FLAT COATING: A coating that is not 

defined under any other definition in this rule and that 

registers gloss less than 15 on an 85-degree meter or less 

than 5 on a 60-degree meter according to ASTM Designation D 

523-89 (1999), incorporated by reference in Section E.2.d.3 

of this Rulesubsection F.5.b.

B.15B.21 FLOOR COATING: An opaque coating that is labeled and 

formulated for application to flooring, including, but not 

limited to, decks, porches, steps, garage floors, and other 

horizontal surfaces which may be subject to foot traffic.

A.6 Flow Coating: A coating labeled and formulated 

exclusively for use by electric power companies or 

their subcontractors to maintain the protective 

coating systems present on utility transformer units.

B.16B.22 Form-Release Compound: FORM-RELEASE COMPOUND: A 

coating labeled and formulated for application to a 

concrete form to prevent the freshly poured concrete from 

bonding to the form. The form may consist of wood, metal, 

or some other material other than concrete.

B.17B.23 GRAPHIC ARTS COATING OR SIGN PAINT: A coating labeled 

and formulated for hand-application by artists using brush, 

airbrush, or roller techniques to indoor and outdoor signs 

(excluding structural components) and murals, including 

lettering enamels, poster colors, copy blockers, and 

bulletin enamels.
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B.18B.24 HIGH-TEMPERATURE COATING: A high performance coating 

labeled and formulated for application to substrates 

exposed continuously or intermittently to temperatures 

above 204oC (400oF204°C (400°F).

B.19B.25 INDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE COATING: A high performance 

architectural coating, including primers, sealers, 

undercoaters, intermediate coats, and topcoats, formulated 

for application to substrates, including floors, exposed to 

one or more of the following extreme environmental 

conditions listed in Sectionssubsections B.2725.a through 

B.2725.e below, and labeled as specified in Section 

Esubsection D.1.d of this Rulee:

a. Immersion in water, wastewater, or chemical solutions 

(aqueous and non-aqueous solutions), or chronic 

exposure of interior surfaces to moisture condensation;

or

b. Acute or chronic exposure to corrosive, caustic, or 

acidic agents, or to chemicals, chemical fumes, or 

chemical mixtures or solutions; or

c. RepeatedFrequent exposure to temperatures above 121oC 

(250oF);121°C (250°F); or

d. Repeated (frequent)Frequent heavy abrasion, including 

mechanical wear and repeated (frequent) scrubbing with 

industrial solvents, cleansers, or scouring agents; or

e. Exterior exposure of metal structures and structural 

components.

A.7 Lacquer: A clear or opaque wood coating, including 

clear lacquer sanding sealers, formulated with 

cellulosic or synthetic resins to dry by evaporation 

without chemical reaction and to provide a solid, 

protective film. 

B.20B.26 Low-Solids Coating: LOW SOLIDS COATING: A coating 

containing 0.12 kilogram or less of solids per liter (1 

pound or less of solids per gallon) of coating material as 

recommended for application by the manufacturer. The VOC 

content for Low Solids Coatings shall be calculated in

accordance with subsection B.59.

B.21B.27 MAGNESITE CEMENT COATING: A coating labeled and 

formulated for application to magnesite cement decking to 

protect the magnesite cement substrate from erosion by 

water.
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B.28 Mastic Texture Coating: MANUFACTURER’S MAXIMUM THINNING 

RECOMMENDATION: The maximum recommendation for thinning 

that is indicated on the label or lid of the coating 

container.

B.22B.29 MASTIC TEXTURE COATING: A coating labeled and 

formulated to cover holes and minor cracks and to conceal 

surface irregularities, and is applied in a single coat of 

at least 10 mils (at least 0.010 inch) dry film thickness.

B.30 Metallic Pigmented Coating: MEDIUM DENSITY FIBERBOARD

(MDF): A coating containingcomposite wood product, panel, 

molding, or other building material composed of cellulosic 

fibers (usually wood) made by dry forming and pressing of a 

resinated fiber mat.

B.23B.31 METALLIC PIGMENTED COATING: A coating that is labeled 

and formulated to provide a metallic appearance. Metallic 

Pigmented coatings must contain at least 48 grams of 

elemental metallic pigment (excluding zinc) per liter of 

coating as applied (at least 0.4 pounds per gallon), when 

tested in accordance with South Coast Air Quality 

Management DistrictSCAQMD Method 318-95, incorporated by 

reference in Section subsection F.5.2.4.4 of this Ruled. 

The Metallic Pigmented Coating category does not include 

coatings applied to roofs or Zinc-Rich Primers.

B.24B.32 MULTI-Color Coating: -COLOR COATING: A coating that is 

packaged in a single container and that exhibitsis labeled 

and formulated to exhibit more than one color when applied 

in a single coat.

B.25B.33 NONFLAT COATING: A coating that is not defined under 

any other definition in this rule and that registers a 

gloss of 15 or greater on an 85-degree meter and 5 or 

greater on a 60-degree meter according to ASTM Designation 

D 523-89 (1999), incorporated by reference in Section 

5.2.4.3 of this Rulesubsection F.5.c.

A.8 NONFLAT-High Gloss Coating: – HIGH GLOSS COATING: A 

nonflat coating that registers a gloss of 70 or 

abovegreater on a 60-degree meter according to ASTM 

Designation D 523-89 (1999), incorporated by reference 

in Section subsection F.5.2.4.3 of this Rule.

B.26B.34 Non-Industrial Use: Non-industrial use means any use 

of architectural c. Nonflat – High Gloss coatings except in 
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the construction or maintenance of any of the 

following:must be labeled in accordance with subsection 

D.1.i.

A.8.a. facilities used in the manufacturing of 

goods and commodities;

A.8.b. transportation infrastructure, including 

highways, bridges, airports and railroads;

A.8.c. facilities used in mining activities, 

including petroleum extraction; and,

A.8.d. utilities infrastructure, including power 

generation and distribution, and water 

treatment and distribution systems.

A.9 Post-Consumer Coating: A finished coating that would 

have been disposed of in a landfill, having completed 

its usefulness to a consumer, and does not include 

manufacturing wastes.

Pre-Treatment Wash Primer:

B.35 PARTICLEBOARD: A composite wood product panel, molding, or 

other building material composed of cellulosic material 

(usually wood) in the form of discrete particles, as 

distinguished from fibers, flakes, or strands, which are 

pressed together with resin.

B.36 PEARLESCENT: Exhibiting various colors depending on the 

angles of illumination and viewing, as observed in motherof-pearl.

B.37 PLYWOOD: A panel product consisting of layers of wood 

veneers or composite core pressed together with resin. 

Plywood includes panel products made by either hot or cold 

pressing (with resin) veneers to a platform.

B.38 POST-CONSUMER COATING: Finished coatings generated by a 

business or consumer that have served their intended end 

uses, and are recovered from or otherwise diverted from the 

waste stream for the purpose of recycling.

B.27B.39 PRE-TREATMENT WASH PRIMER: A primer that contains a 

minimum of 0.5 percent by acid, by weight, when tested in 

accordance with ASTM Designation D 1613-9606, incorporated 

by reference in Section E.2.dsubsection F.5 of this Rule, 

that.e, which is labeled and formulated for application 

directly to bare metal surfaces to provide corrosion 

resistance and to promote adhesion of subsequent topcoats.
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Primer:

B.40 PRIMER, SEALER, AND UNDERCOATER: A coating labeled and 

formulated for application to a substrate one or more of 

the following purposes:

a. To provide a firm bond between the substrate and the 

subsequent coats.coatings; or

A.10 Quick-Dry Enamel: A nonflat coating that is labeled 

as specified in Section D.1.h of this Rule and that is 

formulated to have the following characteristics:

A.10.a. Is capable of being applied directly from 

the container under normal conditions with 

ambient temperatures between 16 and 27oC (60 

and 80oF);

A.10.b. When tested in accordance with ASTM 

Designation D-1640-95, incorporated by 

reference in Section E.2.d.6 of this Rule, 

sets to touch in 2 hours or less, is tack 

free in 4 hours or less, and dries hard in 8 

hours or less by the mechanical test method; 

and

A.10.c. Has a dried film gloss of 70 or above on a 

60 degree meter.

b. Quick Dry Primer,To prevent subsequent coatings from 

being absorbed by the substrate; or

c. To prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in 

the substrate; or

d. To provide a smooth surface for the subsequent 

application of coatings; or

e. To provide a clear finish coat to seal the substrate; 

or

f. To block materials from penetrating into or leaching 

out of a substrate.

B.41 REACTIVE PENETRATING SEALER: A clear or pigmented coating 

that is labeled and formulated for application to abovegrade concrete and masonry substrates to provide protection 

from water and waterborne contaminants, including, but not 

limited to, alkalis, acids, and salts. Reactive Penetrating 

Sealers must penetrate into concrete and masonry substrates 

and chemically react to form covalent bonds with naturally 

occurring minerals in the substrate. Reactive Penetrating 

Sealers line the pores of concrete and masonry substrates 

with a hydrophobic coating, but do not form a surface film. 
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Reactive Penetrating Sealers must meet all of the following 

criteria:

a. The Reactive Penetrating Sealer And Undercoater: A 

primer, sealer or undercoater that is dry to the touch 

in 30 minutes and canmust improve water repellency at 

least 80 percent after application on a concrete or 

masonry substrate. This performance must be recoated in 

2 hours when testedverified on standardized test 

specimens, in accordance with one or more of the 

following standards, incorporated by reference in 

subsection F.5.t: ASTM C67-07, or ASTM C97-02, or ASTM 

C140-06; and

b. The Reactive Penetrating Sealer must not reduce the 

water vapor transmission rate by more than 2 percent 

after application on a concrete or masonry substrate. 

This performance must be verified on standardized test 

specimens, in accordance with ASTM Designation 1640-

95E96/E96M-05, incorporated by reference in Section 

E.2.d.6 of this Rule.subsection F.5.u; and

c. Recycled Coating: Products labeled and formulated for 

vehicular traffic surface chloride screening 

applications must meet the performance criteria listed 

in the National Cooperative Highway Research Report 244 

(1981), incorporated by reference in subsection F.5.v. 

Reactive Penetrating Sealers must be labeled in accordance 

with subsection D.1.g.

B.28B.42 RECYCLED COATING: An architectural coating formulated 

such that not less than 50 percent of the total weight 

consistsit contains a minimum of secondary and 50% by 

volume post-consumer coating, with not less than 10 percent 

of the total weight consisting of post-consumer coatinga 

maximum of 50% by volume secondary industrial materials or 

virgin materials.

A.11 Residential: Areas where people reside or lodge, 

including, but not limited to, single and multiple 

family dwellings, condominiums, mobile homes, 

apartment complexes, motels, and hotels.

B.29B.43 Roof Coating: ROOF COATING: A non-bituminous coating 

labeled and formulated exclusively for application to roofs 

for the primary purpose of preventing water penetration of 

the substrate by water or , reflecting heat and ultraviolet 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 14 of 29

light, or reflecting solar radiation. Metallic pigmented 

roof coatings which qualify as Metallic Pigmented Coating 

shall not be considered to be in this category, but shall 

be considered to be in the Metallic Pigmented Coating 

category. 

B.30B.44 RUST PREVENTATIVE COATING: A coating formulated for 

non-industrial use to prevent the corrosion of metal 

surfaces and labeled as specified in Section D.1.f of this 

Rule.for one or more of the following applications:

A.12 Sanding Sealer: A clear or semi-transparent wood 

coating labeled and formulated for application to bare 

wood to seal the wood and to provide a coat that can 

be abraded to create a smooth surface for subsequent 

applications of coatings. A sanding sealer that also 

meets the definition of a lacquer is not included in 

this category, but is included in the lacquer 

category.

A.13 Sealer: A coating labeled and formulated for 

application to a substrate for one or more of the 

following purposes: to prevent subsequent coatings 

from being absorbed by the substrate, or to prevent 

harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the 

substrate.

a. Secondary Coating (Rework): A fragment of a finished 

coating or a finished coating from aDirect-to-metal 

coating; or

b. Coating intended for application over rusty, previously 

coated surfaces.

The Rust Preventative category does not include the 

following:

c. Coatings that are required to be applied as a topcoat 

over a primer; or

d. Coatings that are intended for use on wood or any other 

nonmetallic surface.

Rust Preventative coatings are for metal substrates only 

and must be labeled as such, in accordance with the 

labeling requirements in subsection D.1.f.

B.45 SECONDARY INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS: Products or by-products of 

the paint manufacturing process that has converted 
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resources into a commodity of realis of known composition 

and have economic value but can no longer be used for their 

intended purpose.

B.31B.46 SEMITRANSPARENT COATING: A coating that contains 

binders and colored pigments and is formulated to change 

the color of the surface, but does not include excess 

virgin resources of the manufacturing processnot conceal 

the grain pattern or texture.

B.32B.47 SHELLAC: A clear or opaque coating formulated solely 

with the resinous secretions of the lac beetle 

(LacciferLaciffer lacca), thinned with alcohol, and 

formulated to dry by evaporation without a chemical 

reaction.

B.33B.48 SHOP APPLICATION: Application of a coating to a 

product or a component of a product in or on the premises 

of a factory or a shop as part of a manufacturing, 

production, or repairing process (e.g., original equipment 

manufacturing coatings).

B.34B.49 SOLICIT: To require for use or to specify, by written 

or oral contract.

A.14 Specialty Primer, Sealer And Undercoater: A coating 

labeled as specified in Section D.1.h of this Rule and 

that is formulated for application to a substrate to 

seal fire, smoke or water damage; to condition 

excessively chalky surfaces, or to block stains. An 

excessively chalky surface is one that is defined as 

having a chalk rating of four or less as determined by 

ASTM Designation D 4214-98, incorporated by reference 

in Section E.2.d.7 of this Rule.

B.35B.50 Stain: A clear, semitransparent,STAIN: A 

semitransparent or opaque coating labeled and formulated to 

change the color of a surface but not conceal the grain 

pattern or texture.

B.51 Swimming Pool Coating: STONE CONSOLIDANT: A coating that is 

labeled and formulated for application to stone substrates 

to repair historical structures that have been damaged by 

weathering or other decay mechanisms. Stone Consolidants 

must penetrate into stone substrates to create bonds 

between particles and consolidate deteriorated material. 

Stone Consolidants must be specified and used in accordance 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 16 of 29

with ASTM E2167-01, incorporated by reference in subsection 

F.5.w.

Stone Consolidants are for professional use only and must 

be labeled as such, in accordance with the labeling 

requirements in subsection D.1.h.

B.36B.52 SWIMMING POOL COATING: A coating labeled and 

formulated to coat the interior of swimming pools and to 

resist swimming pool chemicals. Swimming pool coatings 

include coatings used for swimming pool repair and 

maintenance.

A.15 Swimming Pool Repair And Maintenance Coating: A 

rubber based coating labeled and formulated to be used 

over existing rubber based coatings for the repair and 

maintenance of swimming pools.

A.16 Temperature-Indicator Safety Coating: A coating 

labeled and formulated as a color-changing indicator 

coating for the purpose of monitoring the temperature 

and safety of the substrate, underlying piping, or 

underlying equipment, and for application to 

substrates exposed continuously or intermittently to 

temperatures above 204oC (400oF).

B.37B.53 Tint Base: TINT BASE: An architectural coating to 

which colorant is added after packaging in sale units to 

produce a desired color.

B.38B.54 TRAFFIC MARKING COATING: A coating labeled and 

formulated for marking and striping streets, highways, or 

other traffic surfaces, including, but not limited to, 

curbs, berms, driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, and 

airport runways.

B.39B.55 Undercoater: ATUB AND TILE REFINISH COATING: A clear 

or opaque coating that is labeled and formulated to provide 

a smooth exclusively for refinishing the surface for 

subsequent coats.of a bathtub, shower, sink, or countertop. 

Tub and Tile Refinish coatings must meet all of the 

following criteria:

A.17 Varnish: A clear or semi-transparent wood coating, 

excluding lacquers and shellacs, formulated to dry by 

chemical reaction on exposure to air. Varnishes may 

contain small amounts of pigment to color a surface, 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 17 of 29

or to control the final sheen or gloss of the finish. 

a. The coating must have a scratch hardness of 3H or 

harder and a gouge hardness of 4H or harder. This must 

be determined on bonderite 1000, in accordance with 

ASTM D3363-05, incorporated by reference in subsection 

F.5.o.; and

b. The coating must have a weight loss of 20 milligrams or 

less after 1000 cycles. This must be determined with 

CS-17 wheels on bonderite 1000, in accordance with ASTM 

D4060-07, incorporated by reference in subsection 

F.5.p; and

c. The coating must withstand 1000 hours or more of 

exposure with few or no #8 blisters. This must be 

determined on unscribed bonderite, in accordance with 

ASTM D4585-99, and ASTM D714-02e1, incorporated by 

reference in subsection F.5.q; and

d. The coating must have an adhesion rating of 4B or 

better after 24 hours of recovery. This must be 

determined on unscribed bonderite, in accordance with 

ASTM D4585-99 and ASTM D3359-02, incorporated by 

reference in subsection F.5.n.

B.56 VENEER: Thin sheets of wood peeled or sliced from logs for 

use in the manufacture of wood products such as plywood, 

laminated veneer lumber, or other products.

B.57 VIRGIN MATERIALS: Materials that contain no post-consumer 

coatings or secondary industrial materials.

B.40B.58 VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUND (VOC): Any compound 

containing at least one atom of carbon, excluding any 

exempt compoundAs defined in District Rule 1.1.

A.18 VOC Content: ACTUAL: VOC Actual is the weight of VOC 

per volume of coating, and it is calculated according 

to the procedures specified in Section D.2 of this 

Rule.

B.41B.59 Waterproofing Sealer: A coating labeled and 

formulated for application to a porous substrate for the 

primary purpose of preventingwith the penetration of 

water.following equation:

Waterproofing Concrete/Masonry Sealer: VOC Actual = (Ws 

– Ww – Wec)

(Vm)
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 18 of 29

Where:

VOC Actual = the grams of VOC per liter of coating 

(also known as 

“Material VOC”)

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

B.60 VOC CONTENT: The weight of VOC per volume of coating. VOC 

Content is VOC Regulatory, as defined in subsection B.61, 

for all coatings except those in the Low Solids category. 

For coatings in the Low Solids category, the VOC Content is 

VOC Actual, as defined in subsection B.59. If the coating 

is a multi-component product, the VOC content is VOC 

Regulatory as mixed or catalyzed. If the coating contains 

silanes, siloxanes, or other ingredients that generate 

ethanol or other VOCs during the curing process, the VOC 

content must include the VOCs emitted during curing.

B.61 VOC REGULATORY: VOC Regulatory is the weight of VOC per 

volume of coating, less the volume of water and exempt 

compounds. It is calculated with the following equation:

VOC Regulatory = (Ws – Ww – Wec)

(Vm – Vw – Vec)

Where:

VOC Regulatory = grams of VOC per liter of coating, less 

water and exempt compounds (also known as 

“Coating VOC”)

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

Vw = volume of water, in liters

Vec = volume of exempt compounds, in liters

B.42B.62 WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE: A clear or pigmented filmformingopaque coating that is labeled and formulated for 

sealing application to concrete and masonry to provide 

resistance against water, alkalis, acids, ultraviolet 

light, and staining.surfaces to provide a seamless 

waterproofing membrane that prevents any penetration of 

liquid water into the substrate. Waterproofing Membranes 

are intended for the following waterproofing applications: 

below-grade surfaces, between concrete slabs, inside 

tunnels, inside concrete planters, and under flooring 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 19 of 29

materials. Waterproofing Membranes must meet the following 

criteria:

a. Wood Preservative: Coating must be applied in a single 

coat of at least 25 mils at least 0.025 inch) dry film 

thickness; and

b. Coatings must meet or exceed the requirements contained 

in ASTM C836-06, incorporated by reference in 

subsection F.5.r.

The Waterproofing Membrane category does not include 

topcoats that are included in the Concrete/Masonry Sealer 

category (e.g., parking deck topcoats, pedestrian deck 

topcoats, etc.).

B.63 WOOD COATING: Coatings labeled and formulated for 

application to wood substrates only. The Wood Coatings 

category includes the following clear and semitransparent 

coatings: lacquers; varnishes; sanding sealers; penetrating 

oils; clear stains; wood conditioners used as undercoats; 

and wood sealers used as topcoats. The Wood Coatings 

category also includes the following opaque wood coatings: 

opaque lacquers; opaque sanding sealers; and opaque lacquer 

undercoaters. The Wood Coatings category does not include 

the following: clear sealers that are labeled and 

formulated for use on concrete/masonry surfaces; or 

coatings intended for substrates other than wood.

Wood Coatings must be labeled “For Wood Substrates Only”, 

in accordance with subsection D.1.j.

B.43B.64 WOOD PRESERVATIVE: A coating labeled and formulated to 

protect exposed wood from decay or insect attack, that is 

registered with both the U.S. EPA under the Federal 

Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 United 

States Code (U.S.C.) Section 136, et seq.) and with the 

California Department of Pesticide Regulation.).

B.65 WOOD SUBSTRATE: A substrate made of wood, particleboard, 

plywood, medium density fiberboard, rattan, wicker, bamboo, 

or composite products with exposed wood grain. Wood 

Products do not include items comprised of simulated wood.

B.66 ZINC-RICH PRIMER: A coating that meets all of the following 

specifications:
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 20 of 29

a. Coating contains at least 65 percent metallic zinc 

powder or zinc dust by weight of total solids; and

b. Coating is formulated for application to metal 

substrates to provide a firm bond between the substrate 

and subsequent applications of coatings; and

c. Coating is intended for professional use only and is 

labeled as such, in accordance with the labeling 

requirements in subsection D.1.k.

C. STANDARDS.

C.1 VOC CONTENT LIMITS: Except as provided in 

Sectionssubsections C.2, or C.3, C.8, and C.9 below, no 

person shall:

a. (a) manufacture, blend, or repackage for saleuse

within the district; (b) or

a.b. supply, sell, or offer for sale for use within 

the district; or

c. (c) solicit for application or apply within the 

district, any architectural coating with a VOC content 

in excess of the corresponding limit specified in the 

following table.Table 1, after the specified effective 

date in Table 1. Limits are expressed in grams ofas VOC 

per liter of coatingRegulatory, thinned to the 

manufacturer’s maximum thinning recommendation, 

excluding the volume of any water, exempt compounds, or 

colorant added to the tint bases. “Manufacturer’s 

maximum recommendation” means the maximum 

recommendation for thinning that is indicated on

C.2 MOST RESTRICTIVE VOC LIMIT: If a coating meets the label or 

lid of the definition in Section B for one or more 

specialty coating categories that are listed in Table 1, 

then that coating is not required to meet the VOC limits 

for Flat, Nonflat, or Nonflat – High Gloss coatings, but is 

required to meet the VOC limit for the applicable specialty 

coating listed in Table 1.

A.19 With the exception of the specialty coating categories 

specified in subsections C.2.a through C.2.k, if a 

coating is recommended for use in more than one of the 

specialty coating categories listed in Table 1, the 

most restrictive (or lowest) VOC content limit shall 

apply. This requirement applies to: usage 

recommendations that appear anywhere on the coating 

container.
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 21 of 29

Coating Category Effective 

date of 

adoption1,2

Effective 

1/1/2003

Effective 

1/1/2004

Flat Coatings 250 100

Nonflat coatings 250 150

Nonflat – High Gloss 250

Specialty Coatings:

Antenna Coatings 530

Antifouling Coatings 400

Bituminous Roof Coatings 300

Bituminous Roof Primers 350

Bond Breakers exempt 350

Clear Wood Coatings:

 Clear Brushing

Lacquer

 Lacquers (including 

lacquer sanding 

sealers)

 Sanding Sealers 

(other than lacquer 

sanding sealers)

 Varnishes

680

680

--

350

550

350

Concrete Curing 

Compounds

350

Dry Fog Coatings exempt 400

Faux Finishing Coatings 350

Fire Resistive Coatings 350

Fire Retardant Coatings:

 Clear

 Opaque

exempt

exempt

650

350

Floor Coatings 250

Flow Coatings 420

Form-Release Compounds 250

Graphic Arts Coatings 

(Sign Paints)

exempt 500

High Temperature 

Coatings

420

Industrial Maintenance 

Coatings

420 250

Low Solids Coatings2 120

Magnesite Cement 

Coatings

450

Mastic Texture Coatings exempt 300
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 22 of 29

Metallic Pigmented 

Coatings

exempt 500

Multi-Color Coatings exempt 250

Pre-Treatment Wash 

Primers

420

Primers, Sealers, and 

Undercoaters

350 200

Quick-Dry Enamels 400 250

Quick-Dry Primers, 

Sealers, Undercoaters

exempt 200

Recycled Coatings 250

Roof Coatings 300 250

Rust Preventative 

Coatings

400

Shellacs:

 Clear

 Opaque

exempt

exempt

730

550

Specialty Primers, 

Sealers and Undercoaters

350

Stains 350 250

Swimming Pool Coatings exempt 340

Swimming Pool Repair and 

Maintenance Coatings

exempt 340

Temperature-Indicator 

Safety Coatings

550

Traffic Marking Coatings 250 150

Waterproofing Sealers 400 250

Waterproofing Concrete/

Masonry Sealers

400

Wood Preservatives 350

1The specified limits remain in effect unless revised 

limits are listed in subsequent columns in the table.

2Units are grams of VOC per liter (pounds of VOC per 

gallon) of coating, including water and exempt compounds.

Conversion factor: one pound VOC per gallon (U.S.) = 

119.95 grams VOC per liter.

Most Restrictive VOC Limits: If anywhere on the container 

of any architectural coating or, anywhere on any label or 

sticker affixed to the container, or in any sales, 

advertising, or technical literature supplied by a 

manufacturer or anyone acting on their behalf, any 

representation is made that indicates that the coating 

meets the definition of or is recommended for use for more 

than one of the coating categories listed in the table in 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 23 of 29

Section C.1, then the most restrictive VOC content limit 

shall apply. This provision does not apply to the coating 

categories specified below:.

Lacquer coatings (including lacquer sanding 

sealers)

b.a. Metallic pigmented coatings.

c.b. Shellacs.

Fire-retardant coatings

d.c. Pretreatment wash primers.

e.d. Industrial maintenance coatings.

f.e. Low-solids coatings.

g.f. Wood preservatives.

h.g. High temperature coatings.

Temperature-indicator safety coatings

Antenna coatings

Antifouling coatings

Flow coatings

i.h. Bituminous roof primers.

i. SpecialtyAluminum roof coatings.

j. Zinc-rich primers, sealers, and undercoaters.

k. Sell-Through OfWood Coatings:.

C.2C.3 SELL-THROUGH OF COATINGS: A coating manufactured prior 

to the January 1, 2003 or January 1, 2004 effective date 

specified for that coating in Table 1, and that complied 

with the tablestandards in Section C.1effect at the time 

the coating was manufactured, may be sold, supplied, or 

offered for sale for up to three years after the specified 

effective date. In addition, a coating manufactured before 

the effective date specified for that coating in the table 

in Section C.Table 1 may be applied at any time, both 

before and after the specified effective date, so long as 

the coating complied with the standards in effect at the 

time the coating was manufactured. SectionThis subsection

C.3 does not apply to any coating that complies with the 

future effective January 1, 2003 or January 1, 2004 limits 

or that does not display the date or date-code required by 

Sectionsubsection D.1.a of this Rule.

A.19.a. A coating included in an approved Averaging 

Program specified in Section F.2 of this Rule 

that does not comply with the specified limit in 

the table in Section C.1 of this Rule may be 

sold, supplied, or offered for sale for up to 

three years after the end of the compliance 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 24 of 29

period specified in the approved Averaging 

Program. In addition, such a coating may be 

applied at any time, both during and after the 

compliance period. This Section does not apply 

to any coating that does not display on the 

container either the statement: “This product is 

subject to architectural coatings averaging 

provisions in California” or a substitute symbol 

specified by the Executive Officer of the 

California Air Resources Board (CARB). This 

Section shall remain in effect until January 1, 

2008.

C.3C.4 Painting Practices: PAINTING PRACTICES: All 

architectural coating containers used to apply the contents 

therein to a surface directly from the container by 

pouring, siphoning, brushing, rolling, padding, ragging or 

other means, shall be closed when not in use. These 

architectural coating containers include, but are not 

limited to, drums, buckets, cans, pails, trays or other 

application containers. Containers of any VOC-containing 

materials used for thinning and cleanup shall also be 

closed when not in use.

C.4C.5 THINNING: No person who applies or solicits the 

application of any architectural coating shall apply a 

coating that is thinned to exceed the applicable VOC limit 

specified in the table in Section C.1 of this RuleTable 1.

A.20 Rust Preventative Coatings: Effective January 1, 

2004, a person shall only apply or solicit the 

application of any rust preventative coating for 

nonindustrial use, unless such a rust preventative 

coating complies with the industrial maintenance VOC 

limit specified in the table in Section C.1 of this 

Rule.

C.5C.6 Coatings Not Listed In Section C.1 of this Rule: 

COATINGS NOT LISTED IN TABLE 1: For any coating that does 

not meet any of the definitions for the specialty coatings 

categories listed in the table in Section C.Table 1, the 

VOC content limit shall be determined by classifying the 

coating as a Flat coating, Nonflat, or a nonflatNonflat –

High Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in 

Sectionsubsections B.2120, B.3433, and B.35 of this Rule34,

and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat, or Nonflat – High 

Gloss VOC limit in Table 1 shall apply.
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 25 of 29

A.21 Lacquers: Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 

C.1 and C.5 above, a person or facility may add up to 

10 percent by volume of VOC to a lacquer to avoid 

blushing of the finish during days with relative 

humidity greater than 70 percent and temperature below 

65 degrees Fahrenheit, at the time of application, 

provided that the coating contains acetone and no more 

than 550 grams of VOC per liter of coating, less water 

and exempt compounds, prior to the addition of VOC.

A.22 Averaging Compliance Option: On or after January 1, 

2003, in lieu of compliance with the specified limits 

in the table in Section C.1 of this Rule for floor 

coatings; industrial maintenance coatings; primers, 

sealers, and undercoaters; quick-dry primers, sealers, 

and undercoaters; quick-dry enamels; roof coatings; 

bituminous roof coatings; rust preventative coatings; 

stains; waterproofing sealers, as well as flats and 

nonflats (excluding recycled coatings), manufacturers 

may average designated coatings such that their actual 

cumulative emissions from the averaged coatings are 

less than or equal to the cumulative emissions that 

would have been allowed under those limits over a 

compliance period not to exceed one year. Such 

manufacturers must also comply with the averaging 

provisions contained in Section F of this Rule, as 

well as maintain and make available for inspection 

records for at least three years after the end of the 

compliance period. This Section C.9 above and Section 

F shall cease to be effective on January 1, 2005, 

after which averaging will no longer be allowed.

C.7 ADMINISTRATIVEEARLY COMPLIANCE PROVISION: Prior to January 

1, 2015, any coating that meets a definition in Section B 

for a coating category listed in the Table 1 and complies 

with the applicable VOC limit in the Table 1 and with 

Sections C2 and D shall be considered in compliance with 

this rule.

D. CONTAINER LABELING REQUIREMENTS.

D.1 Container Labeling Requirements: Each manufacturer of any 

architectural coating subject to this rule shall display 

the information listed in Sectionssubsections D.1.a through 

D.1.i belowk on the coating container (or label) in which 

the coating is sold or distributed.
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 26 of 29

a. Date Code: The date the coating was manufactured, or a 

date code representing the date, shall be indicated on 

the label, lid, or bottom of the container. If the 

manufacturer uses a date code for any coating, the 

manufacturer shall file an explanation of each code 

with the CARB Executive Officer of the ARB.

b. Thinning Recommendations: A statement of the 

manufacturer'smanufacturer’s recommendation regarding 

thinning of the coating shall be indicated on the label 

or lid of the container. This requirement does not 

apply to the thinning of architectural coatings with 

water. If thinning of the coating prior to use is not 

necessary, the recommendation must specify that the 

coating is to be applied without thinning.

c. VOC Content: Each container of any coating subject to 

this rule shall display either the maximumone of the 

following values in grams of VOC per liter of coating:

1. Maximum VOC Content as determined from all potential 

product formulations; or the

2. VOC Content as determined from actual formulation 

data; or

3. VOC Content ofas determined using the coatingtest 

methods in subsection F.2.

If the manufacturer does not recommend thinning, the 

container must display the VOC Content, as supplied. If 

the manufacturer recommends thinning, the container must 

display the VOC Content, including the maximum amount of 

thinning assolvent recommended by the manufacturer. If 

the coating is a multi-component product, the container 

must display the VOC content as mixed or catalyzed. If 

the coating contains silanes, siloxanes, or other 

ingredients that generate ethanol or other VOCs during 

the curing process, the VOC content must include the 

VOCs emitted during curing. VOC Content shall be 

displayed as grams of VOC per liter of coating. VOC 

content displayed shall be calculated using product 

formulation data, or shall be determined using the test 

method in Section E.2 of this Rule. The equations in 

Section D.2 of determined as defined in subsections 

B.59, B.60, and B.61.

c.d. Faux Finishing Coatings: the labels of all Faux 

Finishing coatings shall prominently display the 

statement “This Rule shallproduct can only be sold or 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 27 of 29

used to calculate VOC content.as part of a Faux 

Finishing coating system”.

A.22.a. Industrial Maintenance Coatings: In addition 

to the information specified in Sections D.1.a, 

D.1.b and D.1.c above, each manufacturer of any 

industrial maintenance coating subject to this 

Rule shall display on the label or lid of the 

container in which the coating is sold or 

distributed one or more of the descriptions 

listed in Sections D.1.d.1. through D.1.d.3 

below:

A.22.a.1 "the labels of all Industrial 

Maintenance coatings shall prominently 

display the statement “Not for 

residential use,” or “Not Intended for 

residential use,” or “For industrial 

use only."

d.e. ",” or “For professional use only."”.

A.22.a.2 "Not for Residential Use" or "Not 

intended for Residential Use."

A.22.b. Clear Brushing Lacquers: Effective January 

1, 2003, the labels of all clear brushing 

lacquers shall prominently display the statements 

“For brush application only,” and “This product 

must not be thinned or sprayed.”

e.f. Rust Preventative Coatings: Effective January 1, 

2003, The labels of all rust preventative coatings 

shall prominently display the statement “For Metal 

Substrates Only.”

f.g. Specialty Primers,Reactive Penetrating Sealers, 

And Undercoaters: Effective January 1, 2003,: the 

labels of all specialty primers, sealers, and 

undercoatersReactive Penetrating Sealers shall 

prominently display one or more of the descriptions 

listed in Sections D.1.g.1. through D.1.g.5 

below:statement “Reactive Penetrating Sealer”.

A.22.b.1 For blocking stains.

A.22.b.2 For fire-damaged substrates.

A.22.b.3 For smoke-damaged substrates.

A.22.b.4 For water-damaged substrates.

A.22.b.5 For excessively chalky substrates.

g.h. Quick-Dry Enamels: Effective January 1, 

2003,Stone Consolidants: the labels of all quick dry 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 28 of 29

enamelsStone Consolidants shall prominently display the 

words “Quick Dry” and the dry hard time.statement 

“Stone Consolidant - For Professional Use Only”.

h.i. NonFlat-Nonflat - High Gloss Coatings: Effective 

January 1, 2003, The labels of all Nonflat- – High 

Gloss coatings shall prominently display the words 

“High Gloss.”

j. Calculation Of VOC Content: Wood Coatings: the labels 

of all Wood Coatings shall prominently display the 

statement “For Wood Substrates Only”.

k. Zinc Rich Primers: the labels of all Zinc Rich Primers 

shall prominently display the statement “Not for 

residential use,” or “Not Intended for residential 

use,” or “For industrial use only,” or “For 

Professional Use Only”.

E. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

E.1 SALES DATA: A responsible official from each manufacturer 

shall upon request of the APCO, or his or her delegate, 

provide data concerning the distribution and sales of 

architectural coatings. The responsible official shall 

within 180 days provide information, including, but not 

limited to:

a. the name and mailing address of the manufacturer;

b. the name, address and telephone number of a contact 

person;

c. the name of the coating product as it appears on the 

label and the applicable coating category;

d. whether the product is marketed for interior or 

exterior use or both;

e. the number of gallons sold in California in containers 

greater than one liter (1.057 quart) and equal to or 

less than one liter (1.057 quart);

f. the VOC Actual content and VOC Regulatory content in 

grams per liter. If thinning is recommended, list the 

VOC Actual content and VOC Regulatory content after 

maximum recommended thinning. If containers less than 

one liter have a different VOC content than containers 

greater than one liter, list separately. If the coating 

is a multi-component product, provide the VOC content 

as mixed or catalyzed;

g. the names and CAS numbers of the VOC constituents in 

the product;
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 29 of 29

h. the names and CAS numbers of any compounds in the 

product specifically exempted from the VOC definition;

i. whether the product is marketed as solventborne, 

waterborne, or 100% solids;

j. description of resin or binder in the product;

k. whether the coating is a single-component or multicomponent product;

l. the density of the product in pounds per gallon;

m. the percent by weight of: solids, all volatile 

materials, water, and any compounds in the product 

specifically exempted from the VOC definition; and

n. the percent by volume of: solids, water, and any 

compounds in the product specifically exempted from the 

VOC definition.

E.2 All sales data listed in subsections E.1.a to E.1.n shall 

be maintained by the responsible official for a minimum of 

three years. Sales data submitted by the responsible 

official to the APCO may be claimed as confidential, and 

such information shall be handled in accordance with the 

procedures specified in Title 17, California Code of 

Regulations Sections 91000-91022.

F. COMPLIANCE PROVISIONS AND TEST METHODS

A.23 CALCULATION OF VOC CONTENT: For the purpose of 

determining compliance with the VOC content limits in 

the table in Section C.1 of this RuleTable 1, the VOC 

content of a coating shall be determined by using the 

procedures described in Sections D.2.a or D.2.b below, 

as appropriate. as defined in subsection B.59, B.60, 

or B.61. The VOC content of a tint base shall be 

determined without colorant that is added after the 

tint base is manufactured.

A.23.a. With the exception of low solids coatings, 

determine the VOC content in grams of VOC per liter of 

coating thinned to the manufacturer’s maximum 

recommendation, excluding the volume of any water and 

exempt compounds. Determine the VOC content using the 

following equation: 

VOC Content = (Ws - Ww - Wec) / (Vm - Vw - Vec)

Where:

VOC content = grams of VOC per liter of coating

Ws = weight of all volatiles, in grams
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 30 of 29

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in 

grams 

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

Vw = volume of water, in liters

Vec = volume of exempt compounds, in 

liters

A.23.b. For low solids coatings, determine the VOC 

content in units of grams of VOC per liter of coating 

thinned to the manufacturer’s maximum recommendation, 

including the volume of any water and exempt 

compounds. Determine the VOC content using the 

following equation:

VOC Contentls = (Ws - Ww - Wec) / (Vm)

Where:

VOC contentls = If the manufacturer does not 

recommend thinning, the VOC 

Content must be calculated for the 

product as supplied. If the 

manufacturer recommends thinning, 

the VOC Content of a low 

solidsmust be calculated including 

the maximum amount of thinning 

solvent recommended by the 

manufacturer. If the coating in 

grams of VOC per liter ofis a 

multi-component product, the VOC 

content must be calculated as 

mixed or catalyzed. If the coating

Ws = weight of all volatiles, in grams 

Ww = weight of water, in grams

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in 

grams

Vm = volume of coating, in liters

B. MONITORING AND RECORDS.

B.1 Reporting Requirements.

B.1.a. Clear Brushing Lacquers: Each manufacturer 

of clear brushing lacquers shall, on or before 

April 1 of each calendar year beginning in the 

year 2004, submit an annual report to the CARB 

Executive Officer. The report shall specify the 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 31 of 29

number of gallons of clear brushing lacquers sold 

in California contains silanes, siloxanes, or 

other ingredients that generate ethanol or other 

VOCs during the preceding calendar year, and 

shall describe the method used by the 

manufacturer to calculate State sales.

B.1.b. Rust Preventative Coatings: Each 

manufacturer of rust preventative coatings shall, 

on or before April 1 of each calendar year 

beginning in the year 2004, submit an annual 

report to the CARB Executive Officer. The report 

shall specify the number of gallons of rust 

preventative coatings sold in California during 

the preceding calendar year, and shall describe 

the method used by the manufacturer to calculate 

State sales.

B.1.c. Specialty Primers, Sealers, And 

Undercoaters: Each manufacturer of specialty 

primers, sealers, and undercoaters shall, on or 

before April 1 of each calendar year beginning in 

the year 2004, submit an annual report to the 

CARB Executive Officer. The report shall specify 

the number of gallons of specialty primers, 

sealers, and undercoaters sold in California 

during the preceding calendar year, and shall 

describe the method used by the manufacturer to 

calculate State sales.

B.1.d. Toxic Exempt Compounds: For each 

architectural coating that contains 

perchloroethylene or methylene chloride, the 

manufacturer shall, on or before April 1 of each 

calendar year beginning in the year 2004, report 

to the CARB Executive Officer the following 

information for products sold in California 

during the preceding year:

B.1.d.1 the product brand name and a copy of 

the product label with legible usage 

instructions;

B.1.d.2 the product category listed in the 

table in Section C.1 of this Rule to 

which the coating belongs;

B.1.d.3 the total sales in California during 

the calendar year to the nearest 

gallon;
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 32 of 29

B.1.d.4 the volume percent, to the nearest 0.10 

percent, of perchloroethylene and 

methylene chloride in the coating.

D.2F.1 Recycled Coating: Manufacturers of recycled coatings 

must submit a letter to the CARB Executive Officer 

certifying their status as a Recycled Paint Manufacturer. 

The manufacturer shall, on or before April 1 of each 

calendar year beginning in the year 2004, submit an annual 

report to the CARB Executive Officer. The report 

shallcuring process, the VOC content must include, for all 

recycled coatings, the total number of gallons distributed 

in California during the preceding year, and shall describe 

the method used by the manufacturer to calculate 

California’s distribution the VOCs emitted during curing.

B.1.e. Bituminous Coatings: Each manufacturer of 

bituminous roof coatings or bituminous roof 

primers shall, on or before April 1 of each 

calendar year beginning in the year 2004, submit 

an annual report to the CARB Executive Officer. 

The report shall specify the number of gallons of 

bituminous roof coatings or bituminous roof 

primers sold in California during the preceding 

calendar year, and shall describe the method used 

by the manufacturer to calculate California’s 

sales.

B.2 Testing Procedure.

D.3F.2 VOC CONTENT OF COATING: To determine the physical 

properties of a coating in order to perform the calculation 

in Section D.2 of this Rulecalculations in subsection B.59

or B.61, the reference method for VOC content is U.S. EPA 

Method 24, incorporated by reference in Section E.2.d.11 of 

this Rulesubsection F.5.i, except as provided in Sections 

E.2.bsubsections F.3 and E.2.c below. F.4. An alternative 

method to determine the VOC content of coatings is South 

Coast Air Quality Management DistrictSCAQMD Method 304-91 

(Revised February 1996), incorporated by reference in 

Section E.2.d.l of this Rule. subsection F.5.j. The exempt 

compounds content shall be determined by South Coast Air 

Quality Management DistrictSCAQMD Method 303-91 (Revised 

August1993), BAAQMD Method 43 (Revised 1996), or BAAQMD 

Method 41 (Revised 1995), as applicable, incorporated by 

reference in Section E.2.d.10 of this Rule. subsections 

F.5.g, F.5.e, and F.5.f, respectively. To determine the VOC 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 33 of 29

content of a coating, the manufacturer may use U.S. EPA 

Method 24, or an alternative method as provided in Section 

E.2.b belowsubsection F.3, formulation data, or any other 

reasonable means for predicting that the coating has been 

formulated as intended (e.g.., quality assurance checks, 

recordkeeping). record keeping). However, if there are any 

inconsistencies between the results of an EPAa Method 24 

test and any other means for determining VOC content, the 

EPA Method 24 test results will govern, except when an 

alternative method is approved as specified in Section 

E.2.b below. The District Air Pollution Control 

Officersubsection F.3. The APCO may require the 

manufacturer to conduct an EPAa Method 24 analysis.

D.4F.3 ALTERNATIVE TEST Method: METHODS: Other test methods 

demonstrated to provide results that are acceptable for 

purposes of determining compliance with Section Esubsection 

F.2.a above, after review and approved in writing by the 

staffs of the District, CARBthe ARB, and the U.S. EPA, may 

also be used.

D.5F.4 METHACRYLATE TRAFFIC MARKING COATINGS: Analysis of 

methacrylate multicomponent coatings used as traffic 

marking coatings shall be conducted according to a 

modification of U.S. EPA Method 24 (40 CFR 59, subpart D, 

Appendix A), incorporated by reference in Section E.2.d.14 

of this Rule. subsection F.5.k. This method has not been 

approved for methacrylate multicomponent coatings used for 

other purposes other than as traffic marking coatings or 

for other classes of multicomponent coatings.

D.6F.5 TEST METHODS: The following test methods are 

incorporated by reference herein, and shall be used to test 

coatings subject to the provisions of this rule:

B.2.a.1 Flame Spread Index: The flame spread 

index of a fire-retardant coating shall 

be determined by ASTM Designation E 84-

99, “Standard Test Method for Surface 

Burning Characteristics of Building 

Materials,” (see Section B.20 of this 

Rule, Fire-Retardant Coating).

a. Fire Resistance Rating: The fire resistance rating of a 

fire-resistive coating shall be determined by ASTM 

Designation E 119-9807, “Standard Test Methods for Fire 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 34 of 29

Tests of Building and Construction Materials, “” (see 

section B.19 of this Rule, Fire-Resistive Coating).

b. Gloss Determination: The gloss of a coating shall be 

determined by ASTM Designation D 523-89 (1999), 

“Standard Test Method for Specular Gloss,”” (see 

section B.21, B.34, B.35 and B.40 of this Rule, Flat 

Coating, Nonflat Coating, and Nonflat- - High Gloss 

Coating, and Quick-Dry Enamels).

c. Metal Content of Coatings: The metallic content of a 

coating shall be determined by South Coast Air Quality 

Management DistrictSCAQMD Method 318-95, 

”“Determination of Weight Percent Elemental Metal in 

Coatings by X-Ray Diffraction,” South Coast Air Quality 

Management District “SCAQMD Laboratory Methods of 

Analysis for Enforcement Samples,” (see section B.32 of 

this Rule,, Aluminum Roof, Faux Finishing, and Metallic 

Pigmented Coating).

d. Acid Content of Coatings: The acid content of a coating 

shall be determined by ASTM Designation D 1613-9606, 

“Standard Test Method for Acidity in Volatile Solvents 

and Chemical Intermediates Used in Paint, Varnish, 

Lacquer, and Related Products,”” (see section B.38 of 

this Rule, Pre-Treatment, Pretreatment Wash 

PrimersPrimer).

B.2.a.2 Drying Times: The set-to-touch, dryhard, dry-to-touch, and dry-to-recoat 

times of a coating shall be determined 

by ASTM Designation D 1640-95, 

“Standard Test Methods for Drying, 

Curing, or Film Formation of Organic 

Coatings at Room Temperature, “ (see 

Section B.40 and B.41 of this Rule, 

Quick-Dry Enamel and Quick-Dry Primer, 

Sealer, and Undercoater). The tackfree time of a quick-dry enamel coating 

shall be determined by the Mechanical 

Test Method of ASTM Designation D 1640-

95.

B.2.a.3 Surface Chalkiness: The chalkiness of

a surface shall be determined using 

ASTM Designation D 4214-98, “Standard 

Test Methods for Evaluating the Degree 

of Chalking of Exterior Paint Films,” 

(see Section B.52 of this Rule, 

Specialty Primer, Sealer, and 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 35 of 29

Undercoater).

e. Exempt Compounds – --Siloxanes: Exempt compounds that 

are cyclic, branched, or linear completely methylated 

siloxanes, shall be analyzed as exempt compounds for 

compliance with section E.2 of this Rule by Bay Area 

Air Quality Management DistrictF by BAAQMD Method 43, 

“Determination of Volatile Methylsiloxanes in SolventBased Coatings, Inks, and Related Materials,” Bay Area 

Air Quality Management DistrictBAAQMD Manual of 

Procedures, Volume III, adopted 11/6/96, (see section 

B.61 of this Rule, Volatile Organic CompoundsCompound,

and Section Esubsection F.2.a of this Rule).

f. Exempt Compounds – --Parachlorobenzotrifluoride 

(PCBTF): The exempt compound 

parachlorobenzotrifluoride, shall be analyzed as an 

exempt compound for compliance with section E.2 of this 

RuleF by Bay Area Air Quality Management DistrictBAAQMD

Method 41, “Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds 

in Solvent -Based Coatings and Related Materials 

Containing Parachlorobenzotrifluoride, Bay Area Air 

Quality Management District,” BAAQMD Manual of 

Procedures, Volume III, adopted 12/20/95, (see section 

B.61 of this RuleD, Volatile Organic Compound, and 

Section E.2.a of this Rulesubsection F.2).

g. Exempt Compounds: The content of compounds exempt under 

U.S. EPA Method 24 shall be analyzed by South Coast Air 

Quality Management DistrictSCAQMD Method 303- 91 

(Revised 19961993), “Determination of Exempt 

Compounds,” South Coast Air Quality Management District 

“SCAQMD Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement 

Samples”, (see section B.61 of this Rule, Volatile 

Organic Compound, and Section Esubsection F.2.a of this 

Rule.).

h. VOC Content of Coatings: The VOC content of a coating 

shall be determined by U.S. EPA Method 24 as it exists 

in appendix A of 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 

part 60, “Determination of Volatile Matter Content, 

Water Content, Density, Volume Solids, and Weight 

Solids of Surface Coatings,”” (see Section Esubsection 

F.2.a of this Rule.)).

i. Alternative VOC Content of Coatings: The VOC content of 

coatings may be analyzed either by U.S. EPA Method 24 

or South Coast Air Quality Management DistrictSCAQMD

Method 304-91 (Revised 1996), “Determination of 

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in Various Materials,” 

South Coast Air Quality Management District “SCAQMD 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 36 of 29

Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement 

Samples,” (see Section Esubsection F.2.a of this 

Rule.)).

j. Methacrylate Traffic Marking Coatings: The VOC content 

of methacrylate multicomponent coatings used as traffic 

marking coatings shall be analyzed by the procedures in 

40 CFR part 59, subpart D, appendix A, “Determination 

of Volatile Matter Content of Methacrylate 

Multicomponent Coatings Used as Traffic Marking 

Coatings, “ (September 11, 1998), (see Section E.2.a of 

this Rule” (see subsection F.4).

C. AVERAGING PROVISION.

C.1 Averaging Emissions: The manufacturer shall 

demonstrate that actual emissions from the coatings 

being averaged are less than or equal to the allowable 

emissions, for the specified compliance period using 

the following equation:

k. Hydrostatic Pressure for Basement Specialty Coatings: 

ASTM D7088-04, “Standard Practice for Resistance to 

Hydrostatic Pressure for Coatings Used in Below Grade 

Applications Applied to Masonry” (see section B, 

Basement Specialty Coating).

l. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Adhesion: ASTM D 4585-99, 

“Standard Practice for Testing Water Resistance of 

Coatings Using Controlled Condensation” and ASTM D3359-

02, “Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by 

Tape Test” (see section B, Tub and Tile Refinish 

Coating).

m. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Hardness: ASTM D 3363-05, 

“Standard Test Method for Film Hardness by Pencil Test” 

(see section B, Tub and Tile Refinish Coating).

n. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Abrasion Resistance: ASTM 

D 4060-07, “Standard Test Methods for Abrasion 

Resistance of Organic Coatings by the Taber Abraser” 

(see section B, Tub and Tile Refinish Coating).

o. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Water Resistance: ASTM D 

4585-99, “Standard Practice for Testing Water 

Resistance of Coatings Using Controlled Condensation” 

and ASTM D714-02e1, “Standard Test Method for 

Evaluating Degree of Blistering of Paints” (see section 

B, Tub and Tile Refinish Coating).

p. Waterproofing Membrane: ASTM C836-06, “Standard 

Specification for High Solids Content, Cold LiquidApplied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane for Use with 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 37 of 29

Separate Wearing Course” (see section B, Waterproofing 

Membrane).

q. Mold and Mildew Growth for Basement Specialty Coatings: 

ASTM D3273-00, “Standard Test Method for Resistance to 

Growth of Mold on the Surface of Interior Coatings in 

an Environmental Chamber” and ASTM D3274-95, “Standard 

Test Method for Evaluating Degree of Surface 

Disfigurement of Paint Films by Microbial (Fungal or 

Algal) Growth or Soil and Dirt Accumulation” (see 

section B, Basement Specialty Coating).

r. Reactive Penetrating Sealer Water Repellency: ASTM C67-

07, “Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing 

Brick and Structural Clay Tile”; or ASTM C97-02, 

“Standard Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific 

Gravity of Dimension Stone”; or ASTM C140-06, “Standard 

Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry 

Units and Related Units” (see section B, Reactive 

Penetrating Sealer).

s. Reactive Penetrating Sealer Water Vapor Transmission: 

ASTM E96/E96M-05, “Standard Test Method for Water Vapor 

Transmission of Materials” (see section B, Reactive 

Penetrating Sealer).

t. Reactive Penetrating Sealer - Chloride Screening 

Applications: National Cooperative Highway Research 

Report 244 (1981), “Concrete Sealers for the Protection 

of Bridge Structures” (see section B, Reactive 

Penetrating Sealer).

u. Stone Consolidants: ASTM E2167-01, “Standard Guide for 

Selection and Use of Stone Consolidants” (see section 

B, Stone Consolidant).
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 38 of 29

Table 1

VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS

Limits are expressed as VOC Regulatory, thinned to the 

manufacturer’s maximum thinning recommendation, excluding any 

colorant added to tint bases.

Coating Category

 

n

i =1

GiMi 

n

i =1

GiViLi

VOC Limit (g/l)

Effective 

1/1/2015

Flat Coatings 50

Nonflat Coatings 100

Nonflat - High Gloss Coatings 150

Specialty Coatings

Aluminum Roof Coatings 400

Basement Specialty Coatings 400

Bituminous Roof Coatings 50

Bituminous Roof Primers 350
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 39 of 29

Where:

 

n

i =1

GiMi ActualEmissions  

n

i =1

GiViLi Allowable Emissions

Gi = Total Gallons of Product (i) subject to 

Averaging;

Mi = Material VOC Content of Product (i), in 

pounds per gallon;

Vm

Ws - Ww - Wec

Mi 

Vi = Percent by Volume Solids and VOC in Product (i);

Vm

Vm - Vw - Vec

Vi 

Where: Ws, Ww, Wec, Vm, Vw, and Vec are defined in 

Section D.2 of this Rule, except that in this Section 

weights are in pounds and volumes are in gallons.

Bond Breakers 350

Concrete Curing Compounds 350

Concrete/Masonry Sealers 100

Driveway Sealers 50

Dry Fog Coatings 150

Faux Finishing Coatings 350

Fire Resistive Coatings 350

Floor Coatings 100

Form-Release Compounds 250

Graphic Arts Coatings (Sign 

Paints)

500

High Temperature Coatings 420

Industrial Maintenance Coatings 250

Low Solids Coatingsa 120

Magnesite Cement Coatings 450

Mastic Texture Coatings 100

Metallic Pigmented Coatings 500

Multi-Color Coatings 250

Pre-Treatment Wash Primers 420

Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters 100

Reactive Penetrating Sealers 350
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 40 of 29

For Non-Zero VOC Coatings:

Coating VOC(also known as VOCRegulatory)

Material VOC(also known as VOC Actual) Vi 

Where: 

Vm - Vw - Vec

Ws - Ww - Wec

Coating VOC 

For Zero VOC Coatings:

Vi = Percent Solids by Volume

Li = Regulatory VOC Content Limit for Product 

(i), in pounds per gallon (as listed in the table 

in Section 3.1 of this Rule.)

The averaging is limited to coatings that are designated by 

the manufacturer. Any coating not designated in the 

averaging Program shall comply with the VOC limit in the 

table in Section C.1. The manufacturer shall not include 

any quantity of coatings that it knows or should have known 

will not be used in California, if statewide coatings data 

are used. If district-specific coatings data are used, the 

manufacturer shall not include any quantity of coatings 

that it knows or should have known will not be used in the 

District.

C.1.a. In addition to the requirements specified in 

Section F.1 above, manufacturers shall not 

include in an Averaging Program any coating with 

a VOC content in excess of the following maximum 

VOC content, for the applicable categories.

 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 41 of 29

Table 1

(Continued)

Coating Category Averaging Categories 

and VOC Ceiling 

(Maximum VOC 

Allowed)VOC Limit (g/l)

Effective 1/1/2015

CategoryRecycled Coatings Rule VOC 

Limit (In 

effect or 

effective 

1/1/2003 or 

1/1/2004)250

Averaging

VOC 

Ceiling

(Maximum)

Flat CoatingRoof Coatings 10050 250

Nonflat 

CoatingRust 

Preventative 

Coatings

150 250

Floor CoatingsShellacs:

 Clear

250

730

400
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 42 of 29

C.2 Averaging Program (Program): At least six months 

prior to the start of the compliance period, 

manufacturers shall submit an Averaging Program to the 

CARB Executive Officer. As used in this Section F, 

“Executive Officer” means the Executive Officer of the 

California Air Resources Board. Averaging may not be 

implemented until the Program is approved in writing 

by the Executive Officer.

C.2.a. Within 45 days of submittal of a complete 

Program, the Executive Officer shall either 

approve or disapprove the Program. The Program 

applicant and the Executive Officer may agree to 

an extension of time for the Executive Officer to 

take action on the Program.

C.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: The Program shall include all 

necessary information for the Executive Officer to 

make a determination as to whether the manufacturer 

may comply with the averaging requirements over the 

specified compliance period in an enforceable manner. 

Such information shall include, but is not limited to, 

the following:

 Opaque 550

Industrial Maintenance 

CoatingsStains

250 420

Primers, Sealers, and 

UndercoatersStone 

Consolidants

200450 350

Quick-Dry Primers, 

Sealers, and 

UndercoatersSwimming Pool 

Coatings

200340 450

Quick-Dry EnamelsTraffic 

Marking Coatings

250100 400

RoofTub and Tile Refinish

Coatings

250420 250

Bituminous Roof 

CoatingsWaterproofing 

Membranes

300250 300

Rust PreventativeWood

Coatings

400275 400

StainsWood 

Preservatives

250 350

Waterproofing SealersZincRich Primers250340 400
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 43 of 29

C.3.a. An identification of the contact persons, 

telephone numbers, and name of the manufacturer 

who is submitting the Program.

C.3.b. An identification of each coating that has 

been selected by the manufacturer for inclusion 

in this program that exceeds the applicable VOC 

limit in the table in Section C.1 of this Rule, 

its VOC content specified in units of both VOC 

actual and VOC regulatory, and the designation of 

the coating category.

C.3.c. A detailed demonstration showing that the 

projected actual emissions will not exceed the 

allowable emissions for a single compliance 

period that the Program will be in effect. In 

addition, the demonstration shall include VOC 

content information for each coating that is 

below the compliance limit in the table in 

Section C.1 of this Rule. The demonstration 

shall use the equation specified in Section F.1.a 

of this Rule for projecting the actual emissions 

and allowable emissions during each compliance 

period. The demonstration shall also include all 

VOC content levels and projected volume sold 

within the State for each coating listed in the 

Program during each compliance period. The 

requested data can be summarized in a matrix 

form.

C.3.d. A specification of the compliance period(s) 

and applicable reporting dates. The length of the 

compliance period shall not be more than one year 

or less than six months.

C.3.e. An identification and description of all 

records to be made available to the Executive 

Officer upon request, if different than those 

identified under Section F.3.f below.

C.3.f. An identification and description of 

specific records to be used in calculating 

emissions for the Program and subsequent 

reporting, and a detailed explanation as to how 

those records will be used by the manufacturer to 

verify compliance with the averaging 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 44 of 29

requirements.

C.3.g. A statement, signed by a responsible party 

for the manufacturer, that all information 

submitted is true and correct, and that records 

will be made available to the Executive Officer 

upon request.

C.4 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.

C.4.a. Mid-Term Report: For every single 

compliance period, the manufacturer shall submit 

a mid-term report listing all coatings subject to 

averaging during the first half of the compliance 

period, detailed analysis of the actual and 

allowable emissions at the end of the mid-term, 

and an explanation as to how the manufacturer 

intends to achieve compliance by the end of the 

compliance period. The report shall be signed by 

the responsible party for the manufacturer, 

attesting that all information submitted is true 

and correct. The mid-term report shall be 

submitted within 45 days after the midway date of 

the compliance period. A manufacturer may 

request, in writing, an extension of up to 15 

days for submittal of the mid-term report.

C.4.b. End of Compliance Period/Termination of 

Program Report: Within 60 days after the end of 

the compliance period or upon termination of the 

Program, whichever is sooner, the manufacturer 

shall submit to the Executive Officer a report 

listing all coatings subject to averaging during 

the compliance period, providing a detailed 

demonstration of the balance between the actual 

and allowable emissions for the compliance 

period, any identification and description of 

specific records used by the manufacturer to 

verify compliance with the averaging requirement, 

and any other information requested by the 

Executive Officer to determine whether the 

manufacturer complied with the averaging 

requirements over the specified compliance 

period. The report shall be signed by the 

responsible party for the manufacturer, attesting 

that all information submitted is true and 

correct, and that records will be made available 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 45 of 29

to the Executive Officer upon request. A 

manufacturer may request, in writing, an 

extension of up to 30 days for submittal of the 

final report.

C.5 Renewal Of A Program: A Program automatically expires 

at the end of the compliance period. The manufacturer 

may request a renewal of the Program by submitting a 

renewal request that shall include an updated Program, 

meeting all applicable Program requirements. The 

renewal request will be considered conditionally 

approved until the Executive Officer makes a final 

decision to deny or approve the renewal request based 

on a determination of whether the manufacturer is 

likely to comply with the averaging requirements. The 

Executive Officer shall base such determination on all 

available information, including but not limited to, 

the mid-term and the final reports of the preceding 

compliance period. The Executive Officer shall make a 

decision to deny or approve a renewal request no later 

than 45 days from the date of the final report 

submittal, unless the manufacturer and the Executive 

Officer agree to an extension of time for the 

Executive Officer to take action on the renewal 

request.

C.6 Modification Of A Program: A manufacturer may request 

a modification of the Program at any time prior to the 

end of the compliance period. The Executive Officer 

shall take action to approve or disapprove the 

modification request no longer than 45 days from the 

date of its submittal. No modification of the 

compliance period shall be allowed. A Program need 

not be modified to specify additional coatings to be 

averaged that are below the applicable VOC limits.

C.7 Termination Of A Program 

C.7.a. A manufacturer may terminate its Program at 

any time by filing a written notification to the 

Executive Officer. The filing date shall be 

considered the effective date of the termination, 

and all other provisions of this Rule including 

the VOC limits shall immediately thereafter 

apply. The manufacturer shall also submit a final 

report 60 days after the termination date. Any 

exceedance of the actual emissions over the 

allowable emissions over the period that the 
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 46 of 29

Program was in effect shall constitute a separate 

violation for each day of the entire compliance 

period.

C.7.b. The Executive Officer may terminate a 

Program if any of the following circumstances 

occur:

C.7.b.1 The manufacturer violates the requirements 

of the approved Program, and at the end of 

the compliance period, the actual emissions 

exceed the allowable emissions.

C.7.b.2 The manufacturer demonstrates a recurring 

pattern of violations and has consistently 

failed to take the necessary steps to 

correct those violations.

C.8 Change In VOC Limits: If the VOC limits of a coating 

listed in the Program are amended such that its 

effective date is less than one year from the date of 

adoption, the affected manufacturer may base its 

averaging on the prior limits of that coating until 

the end of the compliance period immediately following 

the date of adoption.

C.9 Labeling: Each container of any coating that is 

included in averaging program, and that exceeds the 

applicable VOC limit in the table in Section C.1 of 

this Rule shall display the following statement: 

"This product is subject to architectural coatings 

averaging provisions in California.” A symbol 

specified by the Executive Officer may be used as a 

substitute.

C.10 Violations: The exceedance of the allowable emissions 

for any compliance period shall constitute a separate 

violation for each day of the compliance period. 

However, any violation of the requirements of the 

Averaging Provision of this Rule, which the violator 

can demonstrate, to the Executive Officer, did not 

cause or allow the emission of an air contaminant and 

was not the result of negligent or knowing activity 

may be considered a minor violation.

C.11 Sunset Of Averaging Provision: The averaging 

provision set forth in this Section F shall cease to 

be effective on January 1, 2005, after which averaging 

will no longer be allowed.
 Feather River AQMD Page 3.15 - 47 of 29

a. Limit is expressed as VOC Actual.