Rules on the Use of ULSDF and BART for Buses that Take Children To and From School

All school buses in New York City that use diesel fuel must follow special rules. These buses must use Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel (ULSDF) and the Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART). These rules help reduce air pollution.

A school bus is any vehicle that can carry 10 or more children at one time. It must also have a contract with the New York City Department of Education.

ULSDF is a type of diesel fuel with very low sulfur. It has no more than 15 parts per million of sulfur.

BART is technology that helps reduce pollution from buses. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) or the California Air Resources Board (CARB) must verify this technology. It should also be cost-effective, meaning it should not cost 30 percent more than other similar technology, while achieving the greatest reduction in emissions of nitrogen oxides.

Fines: If a bus does not follow these rules, there can be significant financial penalties. These fines can be from $1,000 to $10,000. This is according to the Rules of the City of New York (RCNY) Title 15, Air Code Penalty Schedule.