EPA Approves DC's New Low-Emission Air Permit Program
Published Date: 11/20/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA is proposing to approve a new program in Washington, DC that lets certain polluters get special permits to keep their emissions just under federal limits. This change helps DC better control air pollution with clear, enforceable rules. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until December 22, 2025, to comment—no extra costs or fees involved!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
DC Lets Sources Keep Emissions Below Major Thresholds
The EPA proposes to approve a District of Columbia program (20 DCMR Chapter 2, esp. sections 200.6 and 200.7) that lets stationary sources get federally enforceable permit limits to keep their Potential to Emit (PTE) below major source thresholds and avoid major new source review (PSD or NNSR) and Title V applicability.
Synthetic Minor Limits Become Federally Enforceable
The approved program makes permit conditions that limit emissions ‘‘federally enforceable’’ and requires limits to be permanent, quantifiable, and enforceable as a practical matter, with recordkeeping, reporting, and monitoring to ensure compliance.
Public Notice and Comment Requirements
Draft synthetic-minor permits that are to be federally enforceable must be subject to an adequately publicized 30-day public comment period and may include a public hearing; the EPA must also receive copies of draft and final permits. The EPA is accepting written comments on this SIP revision through December 22, 2025.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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