Guidelines and instructions
Application Guidelines Document – Note this document has not been revised in relation to DEQ's launch of Your DEQ Online for air quality permits. While some of the information may be outdated, much of it can still be helpful to understand the permitting process and air quality program as a whole.
Owners and operators of sources, activities, and operations that are found on DEQ's list of 'activities and sources' must obtain an air permit. You can review the list here by clicking the PDF link at the bottom of the page (OAR 340-216-8010 Table 1).
If the activity or operation is on the table, a permit is required. If DEQ has a Basic or General permit for the activity or operation, that permit type may be an option. Review DEQ's Basic and General permit webpage to see these permit options.
If not, a facility-specific air permit is required. These permits are called Simple and Standard permits and are drafted by a DEQ permit writer to include the specific requirements that apply to your operations.
All permit applications and changes for Simple and Standard permits are now conducted in 'Your DEQ Online'. This includes:
- Permit applications
- Sale/transfer of a permit
- Construction notifications
- Permit modifications
- Fee payments
- Relocation notices, and
- More
To get started, please visit Your DEQ Online help page.
For new permit applications, consider the following:
- Legal Entity Name: All DEQ permits must be issued to a 'person' as defined by Oregon statute (ORS 468.005). In most cases, this means the legal entity name that is listed on your application must be listed with the Oregon Secretary of State Corporations Division to conduct business in the State of Oregon. However, DEQ can also issue permits to an individual person without registering with the Oregon Secretary of State.
- Land Use: All air permits require a Land Use Compatibility Statement completed by the appropriate local zoning or planning authority (city/county) prior to permit issuance. DEQ must ensure that your project or operation complies with the appropriate local plan prior to issuing a permit. DEQ encourages owners and operators to begin coordinating with local land use authorities as early as possible because processing times for these forms will vary. Check with your local city or county planning section/division for further information.
- Assessment of Equipment/Processes: To consider your application complete and begin drafting a permit, DEQ must know about all equipment and processes that can emit pollutants. This includes:
- emergency engines
- heaters
- boilers
- process equipment
- anything that creates a dust like grinding or cutting
- anything that can evaporate like solvents or paints
- anything that burns fuel
Before submitting an application to DEQ, consider conducting a thorough review of your current or proposed operations to determine what can emit pollutants.
Other Forms and Information
Greenhouse gas