Proposed complexity level for air permit fees

Every year, we prepare fees for businesses that have an air operating permit. We determine these fees based on three parts (or tiers):   complexity level, emissions, and a flat fee.

A.  To figure out the complexity rate:

1. Divide the cost of the air operating permit program by 3.
2. Divide the number from step 1 by the staff hours spent working on air operating permits in the previous year.

B.  To figure out a business's complexity level:

1. Multiply the complexity rate (answer from A, above) by staff hours to manage that business's permit​.

Background

Commercial and industrial businesses that emit large amounts of air pollution are required to get an air operating permit. An air operating permit is a master document that lists all of the air pollution requirements that apply to a business or industry. We issue these permits, along with other clean air agencies in Washington.