Air/Toxic Enforcement

Under the Clean Air Act (CAA), EPA develops and enforces rules and regulations for all entities that emit toxic substances into the air. Our enforcement office works with state, local and tribal governments, other federal agencies, businesses and community groups to implement and enforce its regulations.

The air we breathe is cleaner than it has been in past years due to the policies set forth through Air Rules and Regulations that are enforced at EPA.

Since 1995, violators have been provided options for returning to compliance through Compliance Incentives, Compliance Assistance, and a strong Enforcement Program (see also Enforcement General Duty Clause) where Compliance Monitoring is a critical component. Air quality continues to improve due to industry controls that are effective in meeting emission standards, but also due to ongoing efforts by enforcement staff to ensure that non-compliance is addressed through appropriate program avenues. For cases that have been settled, please see EPA’s summary of Cases and Settlements (sortable by Statute and by date).

Endeavoring to meet the goals set out in National Enforcement Initiatives as well as those objectives specific to our region in ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and permits, our branch serves as the principle point of contact between all stake holders on matters concerning air pollution enforcement. Staff inspect active facilities and review records and data to assess compliance strategies, investigate potential noncompliance activities, actively participate in negotiations for new enforcement orders, manage existing enforcement orders, and respond to numerous and varied requests for Applicability Determinations and Alternative Monitoring.

Our Inspections/Surveillance Section provides surveillance activities for not only the air program, but also for the waste and water programs. Oil and gas facility inspections are enhanced by using the forward looking infra-red camera that has identified numerous emissions of hazardous air pollutants.

By conducting and coordinating training and conference activities, we support professional development and networking opportunities for inspectors and compliance officers that conduct enforcement activities within our region. Please see our FY 2012 Inspectors Workshop webpage for more information.

For contacts related to specific program elements within our office, please see Who's Who in Air Enforcement? For information related to air permitting, please visit the Region 6 Air Permitting Program webpage.

Hotline/Complaint Contact Information
EPA's Report a Violation
Region 6 Emergency Contact Numbers
Region 6 Partners: Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Albuquerque, Oklahoma, Texas.

Texas Cities or Counties that have authority to handle Complaints/Violations:

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Links to Other Enforcement Programs: