Regulated Businesses Permits & Orders Approved

Permitting Process Fees

Regulated Businesses

In Washington, many air pollution sources are required to register with their local air quality control agency. Our agency is the primary agency responsible for regulating air pollution sources in Island, Skagit, and Whatcom counties. There are over 425 industrial, commercial and governmental activities regulated by the NWCAA.

The NWCAA Regulation Section 320 lists the sources that require registration and Section 321 lists sources and activities that are exempt. Sources receive periodic inspections from NWCAA staff to ensure compliance with air pollution rules. Registered sources pay NWCAA an annual fee. The fee (Section 324) is determined by the size and complexity of the source.

In addition, new or modified sources of air pollution are required to obtain a permit from the NWCAA before beginning construction. (Temporary sources are covered in Section 301.) Permits are referred to as Orders of Approval to Construct and contain a wide range of local, state, and federal requirements to minimize air pollution impacts on our environment. The type of activity, the size of the operation, and the kinds of pollutants emitted determine permit conditions. Here are some examples of regulated sources in our area.