Non-compliance with MPCA rules or permit requirements could result in MPCA enforcement action involving administrative penalties, stipulated damages, civil or criminal legal action, and revocation of the MPCA permit. As a practical matter, MPCA permit holders should ensure that they have adequate and appropriate operating practices and qualified personnel in place to meet permit requirements and avoid enforcement action. The following descriptions will give you an idea of which environmental regulations may apply to your business. Expanded information is available on the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's website. AIR EMISSIONS Air Pollutants are released from activities that create dust or fumes, whether inside or outside. Common activities include: -Using 1,000 gallons or more per year of paints, solvents, stains, cleaners, adhesives, or other VOC containing materials -Processing grain, asphalt, or sand and gravel -Burning fuel in a boiler/furnace/heater, or stationary engine/generator An air emission permit is a legal document that describes how a facility is meeting federal and state air quality regulations. It contains legal conditions that are enforced by both the state and federal governments. An air emission permit contains information on all sources of air pollution at a facility. Small sources of air emissions, such as "insignificant facilities”, may not require an air permit. Auto body facilities, coating facilities, concrete manufacturers, gasoline service stations, and woodworking facilities can be exempt from needing an air permit. Otherwise, small businesses may qualify for the smallest and simplest state permit, known as a registration permit. These permits contain simplified regulations intended to make compliance easy. To determine if the business meets the regulatory requirements for a permit and what type, you will need to quantify the facility's air emissions. Review Air Permits, for information on who needs an air permit, types of air permits, applications, and additional guidance.
WASTE Hazardous Waste
A business will need a hazardous waste identification number if it produces any amount of hazardous waste. A hazardous waste identification number identifies both the physical location at which hazardous waste is generated and the operator of that site. The MPCA assigns HW IDs in Minnesota. Because the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) coordinates the numbering system nationwide, HW IDs are also referred to as EPA ID numbers.
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