Field Operations
The Field Operations Section is part of the Stationary Source Division of the AQMD. The primary duties of Field Operations are:
- Conduct field inspections of stationary sources of air pollution, including businesses with air quality permits and unpermitted equipment and facilities, for compliance with applicable federal, state and local air quality laws.
- Field Operations staff investigates citizens' complaints about air quality violations. Investigations are conducted on all potential sources of air pollution, permitted and unpermitted.
- Through the Asbestos Program, conduct inspections of renovations and demolitions of structures which contain asbestos.
- Assist businesses in complying with air quality regulations through the Compliance Assistance Program. Record keeping forms and other materials are available on the Compliance Assistance Page.
- Administer the Mutual Settlement Program (MSP).
Air Quality Regulations
Under both federal and state law, the AQMD is under a legal obligation to adopt and enforce air quality regulations.
These regulations are intended to protect the public health and ensure that the air we breathe in Sacramento meets federal and state health standards
Inspections, Violation Notices, and Penalties
As part of the AQMD's obligation to enforce air quality regulations, the Field Operations staff conducts inspections of facilities on a federal fiscal year basis (October 1 through September 30).
If the staff discovers a violation, a Notice of Violation (NOV) or a Notice to Comply (NTC) may be issued. If you or your business receive an NOV or NTC from a representative of the AQMD, you should immediately take all reasonable and prudent steps necessary to bring your facility back into compliance with AQMD rules.
Once your facility is back in compliance, your case will be reviewed by the AQMD to determine if the facts of the case support further enforcement action.
After your case is reviewed, you will be notified in writing of the AQMD's decision to either:
- Offer you the opportunity to resolve the violation through the Mutual Settlement Program
- Refer the case to AQMD Counsel
- Refer the case to the District Attorney
Violations of air quality regulations are subject to criminal or civil penalties as specified in California Health and Safety Code sections 42400 through 42402. Maximum penalties for violations can range from $1,000 to $75,000 per day of violation, depending on the nature of the violation. Each day of violation is a separate offense regardless of whether a Notice of Violation is issued.
