Boiler rulemaking

DEQ is proposing to replace temporary rules with permanent rules to exempt small-scale commercial, industrial and institutional boilers from the Heat Smart regulations if they are subject to federal emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants and the user complies with existing construction approval requirements. Small boilers are those with a heat output capacity equal to or less than 1 million Btu per hour. The proposed rules would also require the user to register the boiler with DEQ, which includes confirmation of compliance with existing applicable state and federal particulate and air toxics standards. DEQ is also proposing that mid-size commercial, industrial and institutional boilers that are subject to state and federal air quality standards register with DEQ if they are below air quality permitting thresholds.

For both small and mid-sized boilers, (subject to National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) DEQ is proposing a simple, no-fee registration process. The proposed rule amendments enable small-scale commercial, institutional, and industrial biomass boiler projects to continue as planned and meet critical federal and state funding deadlines.

• Proposed Rulemaking Announcement

Public Involvement

The comment period closed August 25, 2011.

Rulemaking Documents

Proposed Rule changes Statement of Need and Fiscal Impact Land Use Evaluation Statement

Relationship to Federal Requirements Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Hearing

Contact Information

For questions about this rulemaking contact:
Carrie Capp
503-229-5868

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