SAQC also reviews new commercial and industrial projects and develop strategies to minimize their air quality impacts. SAQC staff 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. The staff work with permit applicants to minimize emissions of air contaminants and to ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. Once a new facility is completed and begins operation, SAQC inspectors conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with permit requirements. We also provide training to help business owners understand the requirements.
Most businesses recognize their responsibility and readily comply.
But when necessary, the SAQC takes enforcement action to bring businesses into compliance. Inspectors also investigate nuisance, smoke and odor complaints. The SAQC monitors the city's air quality through a network of monitoring stations which record pollutant levels 24 hours a day. The SAQC is also delegated by the state APCP to conduct inspections of asbestos removal projects inside the city. This ensures that the contractors are following the APCP and EPA asbestos abatement regulation guidelines.