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In the past, agricultural operations had been exempt by state law from obtaining air quality permits from local air districts. However, in September 2003, the governor signed into law Senate Bill 700. This bill amended air pollution control requirements in the California Health and Safety Code to remove the exemption as well as include specific new regulatory requirements for agriculture.
SB 700 targeted agriculture and air pollution for two main reasons. First, California's previous agriculture exemption conflicted with federal law. California would have lost billions of dollars in federal transportation funding, as well as faced other sanctions if the bill had not passed. Secondly, in some parts of the state - including the Sacramento air basin - air quality is poor and agricultural activities contribute to the problem. Poor air quality harms public health - causing and/or exacerbating asthma, respiratory illness, heart and lung disease, and early mortality.
In order to implement changes, the District formed an Agricultural Permitting Advisory Committee (APAC) to be used on an as needed basis to provide input on the development of new requirements.
The regulatory programs potentially applicable to agricultural sources include:
The District is happy to meet with any potential agricultural sources to assist in the permitting process. To schedule a meeting or for any questions, contact Paul Hensleigh at (530) 757-3665. |
