Regulations of the Boston Air Pollution Control Commission (APCC) prohibit the emission of air contaminants in such concentration or of such duration as:

1. to cause a nuisance; or
2. to be injurious or tend to be, on the basis of current information, injurious to human or animal life, vegetation, or to property; or
3. to unreasonably interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life and property or the conduct of business.

The regulations have specific provisions addressing:

• Permissible types of fuel in stationary facilities
• Density of smoke from smoke stacks
• Abrasive blasting and chemical cleaning of buildings
• Open burning (generally not permitted; contact the Boston Fire Department for more information)

Under its general authority, the APCC ensures that construction activities, open piles of sand, dirt, and other materials, and similar sources do not release excessive dust or dirt into the air. The Environment Department has compiled Guidelines for Construction for construction companies that wish to take precautions against dust emissions and other potential environmental problems. The APCC also administers parking freezes in three areas of Boston to reduce emissions from vehicles in and around Boston.

The APCC enforces state and city ordinances against excessive idling of vehicle engines. It also participates in a region-wide campaign to encourage the voluntary retrofitting of diesel-powered vehicles with pollution control equipment.

Because air travels freely across political boundaries, the APCC actively cooperates with other local, regional, state, and federal agencies to develop strategies and implement programs to improve air quality throughout New England.

For more information or to report possible violations of air pollution laws or regulations, please contact:
Air Pollution Control Commission
Boston Environment Department
City Hall, Room 805
Boston, MA 02201
617-635-3850
APCC@cityofboston.gov