What is an air permit?

Any facility emitting air pollutants above certain levels is required to have an air quality permit. Air permits are legally binding documents that include enforceable limits on air emissions, with which the owner/operator must comply. Some permits are construction permits, which must be obtained prior to any new construction or modifications at a facility; other permits are operating permits, which must be renewed every five years and cover all the sources at a facility.

Permits specify how facilities must operate pollution control equipment, the pollutant limits they must meet, and how to monitor and report their emissions. Permits are designed to protect human health and the environment by limiting pollution so our air quality remains within state and federal standards.

Permits are also designed to clearly state what regulations apply at a facility, and what the facility must do in order to comply with all applicable regulations; this way, the permittee, the public, and the inspectors all know what is required in order for the facility to operate in compliance with all applicable regulations.

How do permits protect health?

Air permits limit the amount of air pollution allowed from a “stationary source.” State and federal law does not allow the owner/operator to build or modify a stationary source unless they can demonstrate the project will not cause or contribute to a violation of all applicable state and federal rules, including the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, all of which are developed to be protective of public health. Furthermore, owner/operators must provide public notice of their proposed projects. In Missouri, the Air Pollution Control Program is the permitting authority for air quality permits issued under both federal and state laws.

How you can get involved in air permitting?

Construction permits for projects that will result in an increase in air emissions above major source levels, and all operating permits have a public comment period, during which anyone can submit written comments on the proposed permits to the Air Pollution Control Program. In addition, the public may request a public hearing to discuss issuance of the permit. In addition, the public may petition the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to object to the issuance of a Title V permit (mentioned below). Public comments are an important part of air quality permitting.

Issued Air Permits

You can search what air permits have been issued, completed or are pending.