The new rule is being proposed to implement control measure SS-15 from the 2001 Bay Area Ozone Attainment Plan. Proposed Regulation 12, Rule 11 will require refineries to:

• Monitor the volume and composition of gases burned in refinery flares;
• Determine the reasons for flaring;
• Monitor flares with video equipment and record the images;
• Report all of this information to the District

Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code § 21000 et seq.), an initial study for the proposed Regulation 12, Rule 11 has been conducted, concluding that the proposed rule would not have significant adverse environmental impacts. Notice is hereby given that the District intends to adopt a negative declaration for the proposed amendments pursuant to Public Resources Code § 21080(c) and CEQA Guidelines section 15070 et seq.

This notice, the proposed amendments, the initial study and negative declaration, and a draft staff report are available on the District’s website at www.baaqmd.gov. Copies of these documents are also available for review at the address below or by calling the District’s public information office at (415) 749-4900. If you have any questions regarding the proposed amendments, please contact Alex Ezersky at (415) 749-4650 or by e-mail to aezersky@baaqmd.gov.

Written comments on the proposed amendments or negative declaration must be addressed to Alex Ezersky, Bay Area Air Quality Management District, 939 Ellis Street, San Francisco, California, 94109, or to aezersky@baaqmd.gov. Comments will be received during the period from Monday, April 21, 2003 until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2003.