Environmental Quality Newsroom

Nov 26, 2019 - Cooler temperatures over Thanksgiving will cause fireplaces to light up. Wood-burning fireplaces can cause smoke that makes it hard for some people to breathe. Learn how to burn wisely if you choose to light a fire. 

Nov 13, 2019 - The Pima County Board of Supervisors (BOS) as the governing body for the Pima County Air Quality Control District adopts ordinances which are codified in the Pima County Code (PCC). The Pima County Air Quality Control District operates within the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ). PDEQ periodically proposes updates to PCC through the BOS. PDEQ is proposing updating incorporations by reference for the following federal regulations: Acid Rain, National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP), New Source Performance Standards (NSPS), and other parts of Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). The federal regulations would be incorporated as of July 1, 2019. PDEQ's intention is to continue its delegated authority from EPA to implement and enforce these programs in Pima County. In addition, PDEQ is updating the definition of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in Section 17.04.340 to conform to federal regulations. The expedited rule text and other related information is available at the PDEQ office, on the Pima County Homepage, and on the PDEQ website, or you may request a copy by contacting our department. 

Oct 31, 2019 - Avoid vehicle engine idling to reduce air pollution for trick-or-treaters on Halloween, Park and turn off the engine to keep the air healthy to breathe.  

Oct 02, 2019 - The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) is issuing an air pollution health watch due to fire smoke and the potential for elevated levels of particulate matter in certain areas of town, particularly west and southwest of Tucson.  

Oct 01, 2019 - The 2019 ground-level ozone season in Pima County has ended with one day exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's health standard.