The Air Quality Division works to protect the health and welfare of District residents, visitors, and the natural environment by reducing the concentration of pollutants in the outdoor air. The Division issues permits, performs permit inspection and enforcement of laws, and monitors air quality while developing plans for its improvement.
Apply for an Air Pollutant Permit
The Division reviews designs and modifications for new and existing pollution sources and controls. Permits are issued allowing sources to emit limited amounts of pollution, meeting air quality laws.
Air Quality Inspections, Enforcement, and Outreach
The Division inspects major and minor sources of air pollution in the District, enforces air quality laws (including responding to outdoor air pollution problems), and performs education and outreach on air quality issues.
Related work includes:
Asbestos Abatement
Ensures that asbestos removal contractors protect their own health and safety, and the health and safety of building occupants and the general public.
Vehicle Anti-Idling
With a few exceptions, motor vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel are not allowed to idle for more than three minutes while the vehicle is parked, stopped or standing.
Air Quality Monitoring
Staff maintain and operate a 24-hour ambient air quality monitoring network that allows for accurate reporting of current air quality in the District.
Air Quality Regulations
Air quality regulations focus on reducing emissions from a variety of sources, including industrial and commercial buildings, vehicles, and construction.
Air Quality Planning
Information is synthesized during the air quality planning process to identify and implement strategies for air quality improvement.
Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance
Staff conduct performance audits and program monitoring to measure how effectively the Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program controls pollution from light and medium-duty gasoline vehicles in the District.
Air Quality Events
- Upcoming Events TBA
- Clearing the Air: Community Meeting on Planned Ward 8 Air Quality Monitor on June 29, 2023
DOEE is setting up a new ambient air quality monitoring station in Ward 8. We’d like to tell you about the new monitor, why we monitor air quality and get your feedback on the best location for the new monitor. - Launch of Mobile Community Air Monitoring Pilot Project with Aclima - May 25, 2023
- Public Screening of “Unbreathable: the Fight for Healthy Air” & Air Quality Discussion in partnership with Empower DC - May 5, 2023
- Public Meeting: Review of Air Quality Testing Results for National Engineering Products - February 7, 2023
Clearing the Air Community Workshop Series
Clearing the Air Workshops are an opportunity for the public to learn about DOEE's Air Quality Division. During these sessions we'll cover everything from the science of air pollution to the laws and regulations that protect our health from harmful emissions. Recordings of past events and notifications of upcoming events are available.
Volkswagen Settlement
The District is expected to receive a total of $8.125 million from the Volkswagen settlement over their use of vehicle emission cheating devices. Read More>>