Air Quality Management Division

The AQMD Permitting Branch issues permits to sources in Washoe County that emit regulated air pollutants. Air quality permits establish enforceable operational limitations for emissions sources, helping to reduce and manage public exposure to air contaminants. The primary purpose of air quality permitting is to ensure that regulated sources do not emit air pollutants in quantities that would pose health risks and adverse effects to humans and the environment. 

The AQMD Compliance Branch inspects sources of air pollution to protect the air resource in Washoe County and ensure compliance with health and environmental standards. A team of air quality specialists verifies air pollution sources are in compliance with air quality permits, rules and regulations, and offers assistance to businesses.

The AQMD Monitoring Branch operates a network of ambient air monitoring stations in Washoe County to measure concentrations of pollutants considered harmful to the public and environment. The data collected by our team is used to determine EPA compliance and provide near real-time air quality data to the community. 

The AQMD Planning Branch develops and maintains a program that reduces air pollution or maintains clean air quality per federal and state statutes. Staff develop plans and emission management regulations, reduce mobile source emissions, monitor air quality trends, promote alternative forms for transportation, and research air pollution solutions.