Asbestos

The Clean Air Act (CAA) requires the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and enforce regulations to protect the general public from exposure to airborne contaminants that are known to be hazardous to human health. In accordance with Section 112 of the CAA, EPA established National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) to protect the public. Asbestos was one of the first hazardous air pollutants regulated under Section 112. On March 31, 1971, EPA identified asbestos as a hazardous pollutant, and on April 6, 1973, EPA first promulgated the Asbestos NESHAP in 40 CFR Part 61.

The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) administers their asbestos program under Title 17 of the Pima County Code. The Asbestos NESHAP has been adopted by reference in Section 17.16.530. The program's intent is to minimize the release of asbestos fibers during activities involving the processing, handling, and disposal of asbestos-containing material. Accordingly, the Asbestos NESHAP specifies work practices to be followed during demolitions and renovations of all structures, installations, and buildings (excluding residential buildings that have four or fewer dwelling units).

In addition, the regulations require the owner of the building and/or the operator to notify PDEQ before any demolition, or before renovations of buildings that contain a certain threshold amount of asbestos or asbestos containing materials.

Application Forms

Fees

FAQs

Asbestos in the Home
Information on health effects, where it is in your home and what to do about it.

Standards & Definitions
40 CFR 61 Subpart M

OSHA standards

You may contact the Air Program for further assistance.
air.permits@deq.pima.gov
520-740-3340