The public is invited to comment on Part 70 permits, and these permits are considered to be enforceable by the public. Enhanced monitoring, record-keeping and reporting requirements. These requirements promote ongoing internal vigilance by industry operators. Some potential Part 70 sources have reduced emissions to get below the Part 70 thresholds so they will not be required to obtain these federal permits. The air quality classification of an area affects how these federal rules are applied.
Ozone is the primary component of smog.
Because of this classification, the threshold levels of smog-forming pollutants were set lower and more companies have been required to obtain the Part 70 federal permits. Our county recently attained the federal ozone standard and is requesting reclassification as an ozone attainment area. Reclassification would result in increased Part 70 threshold levels, and fewer county sources would be required to obtain the federal permits. Companies are able to make equipment or process changes that allow them to avoid the federal Part 70 permitting process. During the review and comment period of the permitting process, the public has direct input on the permit.