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Fugitive dust is one of the main components of the "Brown Cloud" of air pollution that continues to hover over the Rio Grande Valley. Dirt tracked onto paved surfaces contributes significantly to Bernalillo County's particulate matter (PM10) air pollution
To reduce these types of emissions, Bernalillo County requires that dirt tracked onto paved surfaces be promptly removed and that measures be taken to control dust from operations, such as construction, landscaping, and road work at all times.
A Surface Disturbance permit is required for all jobs that will disturb three quarters (¾) of an acre or more of soil. Permit applications for surface disturbance are available at either the downtown Environmental Health Department Office (3rd floor), the West Side Office or can be downloaded here:
If you are not sure whether or not your property or job site will require a surface disturbance permit, please call the Air Quality Division at (505) 768-1972.