The permitting process is the primary way that government balances environmental protection with social and economic considerations. By issuing permits, approvals and certifications, ADEQ ensures facilities are legally constructed and operated and that discharges to the air, water and soil are within healthful standards established by law. Beyond this, the process enables citizens to stay informed and involved as decisions are made about proposed activities affecting the environmental quality of their community.

ADEQ issues approvals, certifications and general and individual permits to regulate the following:

Air Quality Division: Commercial and industrial air pollution sources; Open, outdoor burning

Waste Programs Division: Solid waste land disposal facilities, biosolids processing facilities, medical waste and special waste facilities, municipal solid waste landfills, and commercial or government-owned household waste composting facilities; Hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facilities and hazardous waste generators

Water Quality Division: Wastewater discharges to groundwater and surface waters of the state including water or wastewater treatment, water distribution or wastewater collection facilities