There are over 425 various types of registered air pollution sources in our jurisdiction. They include large refineries, hospitals, dry cleaners, gas stations, auto body shops, crematories, coffee roasters, spray booths, rock crushers, and boat builders – even a breakfast cereal manufacturer.

Our staff inspects these sources annually to ensure compliance with air pollution regulations. A source may be inspected more frequently if we receive complaints about the source or if there are additional compliance issues.

Inspections can be performed in conjunction with other governmental agencies like the Washington State Department of Ecology, local health departments, and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Annually, our staff also responds to over 1000 complaints filed by concerned citizens.  Types of complaints include outdoor burning, wood stoves/fireplace emisisons, industrial emissions, agricultural burning, odor, and dust.

We strive to respond to each complaint with a phone call, letter, or site visit. Our main objective is compliance with air quality regulations. We frequently use educational efforts to achieve this goal.

If enforcement action is necessary, the facility or party is issued a Notice of Violation.  They then have 30 days to respond to NWCAA in writing before an Imposition of Penalty (fine) is accessed.  A portion of the fine may be suspended depending upon the nature of the violation, history of compliance, and the corrective action taken by the facility or party.