Air Code

The goal of the New York City Air Pollution Control Code (Air Code) is to keep the air clean and safe. The City wants everyone to have air that is not harmful to life, health or enjoyment of their property.

The Air Code sets rules to control air pollution in New York City. These rules are in Title 24, Chapter 1 of the New York City Administrative Code and Title 15, Chapters 10, 13, 14, 15, 25 and 26 of the Rules of the City of New York (RCNY).

Businesses need a permit or registration from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to:

• Spray insulating material in or on buildings or structures during construction, alteration or repair.
• Demolish buildings or structures.
• Install, alter, use or operate fuel-burning equipment with a maximum input rating of 350,000 BTU/hour or more.
• Install or operate industrial process equipment, like dry cleaning equipment, gas stations and spray booths.

Businesses in construction, commercial, cultural and manufacturing fields that might cause smoke, soot, dust, fumes, gas, vapors, odors or any products of combustion should know the Air Code. Business owners should check the additional resources listed to see whether their businesses need to follow these rules.

For dry cleaners

The NYC DEP requires dry cleaners to post a notice about the chemicals they use. Permit and approval requirements are in the Guide to NYC DEP Permitting Requirements for NYC Dry Cleaners. The forms for posting can be a PERC posting notice or a non-PERC posting notice.