“Minor New Source Review Air Dispersion Modeling Guideline”

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

Maricopa County recently adopted regulations that vastly expanded the minor New Source Review (NSR) air quality program. One of the more impactful requirements on the regulated community is that new minor sources emitting pollutants above certain thresholds must now use an air dispersion model to predict impacts to ambient air quality before receiving a permit. In collaboration with the business community, the Maricopa County Minor New Source Review Air Dispersion Modeling Guideline was subsequently developed to provide simple, easy to use directions to applicants so they can obtain permits to operate while also providing the analysis necessary to determine the impacts to human health and the environment. Businesses large and small have successfully used the guideline to demonstrate how the proposed project will meet air quality standards while balancing economic development and protecting the environment.