Business Assistance

This page last reviewed January 14, 2010

Complying with air quality rules and regulations can be confusing for businesses in California. For many small businesses, determining whether or not the rules even apply can be problematic. After that determination is made, a business needs to understand what permits are required, who issues the permit, and the specific requirements of the permit. Finally, the business needs to find the resources, both financial and technical, to satisfy the permit requirements.

The California Air Resources Board (ARB) Small Business Assistance Program can help. We're here to help the business community find the resources they need to comply with the rules.

Getting started can be confusing. We understand that a small business owner can't be expected to be a specialist in air quality permitting. Too often, they're just trying to stay afloat. That is why we're here. We can help you determine the rules that apply to you. We can then help you complete the necessary application forms to get your permits. To help guide you through the permitting process, the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA) has developed a Bill of Rights for permit applicants.

What is the Business Assistance Program?

The federal Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (Act) required that all states develop a program to assist small businesses in meeting the requirements of the Act. The ARB and the 35 regional/county air pollution control or air quality management districts (Districts) have developed a business assistance program to help all businesses understand air pollution permitting requirements.

Districts have the primary responsibility for permitting any regulated source of air pollution within its boundaries. The ARB does not issue permits directly. Because of this, you should start your search for the permitting requirements with your air District.

Who Coordinates the Business Assistance Program?

ARB's Small Business Assistance Program is run by the Office of the Ombudsman. One of the goals is to ensure that everyone has access to the regulatory process and the information needed to operate within the rules.

If you need assistance and are unable to locate the correct person in your local air District, please feel free to contact the Air Resources Board, Office of the Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will help you reach the correct permitting assistance provider.

ombudsman@arb.ca.gov -- (916) 323-6791

Other Related Program Links

• Abrasive Blasting Program - Certified Abrasives
• Decisions Pending and Opportunities for Public Participation
• Equipment Precertification Program
• Independent Contractors Program
• Permits, Certifications, Exemptions, and Registrations
• Statewide Portable Equipment Registration Program

Because this web page is a resource for small businesses, we would like it to contain information that is useful to you. If there is information that you think should be included in the Business Assistance Program's web page, please feel free to contact us. Send your suggestions to Ombudsman@arb.ca.gov or call (916) 323-6791.

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