You can help AQMD protect public health in the South
Coast Air Basin by calling 1-800-CUT SMOGĀ® (1-800-288-7664) to report your
observations of smoking vehicles as well as excessive odors, smoke, dust, or
other air contaminants.
The agency evaluates and responds to air quality complaints 24 hours a day.
Complaints received after normal business hours or during the weekend are
dispatched via pager to an AQMD inspector for follow-up.
What is an air quality complaint?
An air quality complaint is any injury, detriment, nuisance,
or annoyance occurring as a result of air contaminants or other
materials, including (but not limited to) smoke, dust, or odors.
Why you should report air quality problems?
Many businesses operating in the South Coast Air Basin that are sources of air
pollution must comply with AQMD Rules and Regulations, Permits and conditions of
operation. These requirements are designed to protect air quality and public
health. Despite a business's best efforts to comply with these
requirements, equipment breakdowns and process upsets do occur. During these
conditions, excess emissions may occur that can affect neighboring communities,
schools and other businesses.
Do I have to identify myself when I call AQMD
to report an air quality complaint?
Although it's never required for complaints against vehicles, AQMD always encourages people who call to report complaints
about businesses, factories and other stationary sources to provide their name, address, and telephone
number. This information helps AQMD inspectors verify complaint
information, including any prior history of air quality problems
involving the alleged source, and also allows them to inform complainants
of the status of complaint investigation activities. Because AQMD
policy strictly prohibits the release of any information that
would identify a complainant to an alleged source or to any other
non-AQMD personnel without your consent, all information about
you and your complaint will be kept confidential by AQMD staff.
Interagency complaint referral
AQMD is authorized by law to respond only to air quality complaints within
its specific jurisdiction. Complaints which allege
problems that fall beyond the jurisdiction of the AQMD and are best resolved by
contacting the appropriate agencies. |