Planners also review new residential, commercial and industrial projects and develop strategies to minimize their air quality impacts. APCD engineers evaluate plans and issue permits for any new project that involves installing, altering, or operating equipment that either causes air pollution or is used to control it. Engineers work with permit applicants to minimize emissions of air contaminants and to ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. Most businesses recognize their responsibility and readily comply. But when necessary, the APCD takes enforcement action to bring businesses into compliance.
Inspectors also investigate nuisance, smoke and odor complaints.
The APCD technical services division monitors the county's air quality through a network of monitoring stations which record pollutant levels 24 hours a day. Data collected is published in local newspapers and shared with the state Air Resources Board and the federal Environmental Protection Agency. Other minor funding sources include state and federal grants and some property taxes. The APCD does not receive any county or city general fund monies. Winning the battle against air pollution will take more than placing tighter emission controls on smokestacks and tailpipes.