The Air Pollution Program performs inspections at dry cleaning facilities to determine compliance with the NJDEP Air Pollution Control Code . Dry cleaners utilize Non-Hazardous Air Pollutant (Non-HAP) solvents or perchloroethylene . Perchloroethylene is listed as a controlled substance and is regulated by the NJDEP. Dry cleaning equipment is inspected to ensure all parts are functioning in accordance with NJDEP regulations. Records and receipts are reviewed to verify proper waste disposal and solvent use limits are not exceeded in accordance with the facility’s permit. Dry cleaning facilities that use perchloroethylene have been phased out of co-residential locations.

Fuel burning equipment such as boilers, heaters, and emergency generators that burn natural gas, propane, kerosene, diesel, or #2 fuel oil that are fired at maximum input equal to or greater than one million BTU per hour are inspected to ensure facilities comply with their NJDEP Air Pollution Permit. All equipment information is verified to ensure that old equipment was not replaced with new equipment without first obtaining a new NJDEP permit.

Auto body shops are inspected to make sure each shop is licensed, and whether the facility applies paint coatings at a rate equal to or greater than the regulated rate. If the shop applies paint greater than the regulated rate, the facility must present paint content information, the type of spray guns used, and how they are cleaned. Records of waste disposal and handling procedures are verified. All materials must be stored in non-leaking containers that must be kept closed, unless being filled or emptied.

The Air Pollution Program monitors excessive idling in diesel and gasoline powered vehicles throughout Middlesex County. Vehicles may not idle for more than three consecutive minutes.

Exemptions include:

• Vehicles being actively repaired/serviced
• Buses picking up or discharging passengers
• Buses waiting in queue
• Cold starts for temperatures below 25 degrees F