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Division of Air Resources

The Department of Environmental Conservation is charged with the task of protecting the health and welfare of all citizens of New York. In particular, the Division of Air Resources strives to improve and maintain the air quality throughout the State. The nine Regional Offices are responsible for permitting and enforcement, while the Albany Central Office carries out support and research efforts. Recognizing that air quality is both a regional and local problem, we work closely with the US EPA and agencies from other states, as well as local and tribal governments within the State. We collaborate with academic institutions on various air pollution research projects, and are actively involved with national and regional air pollution/air quality management associations.

It has been more than 50 years since the Air Program began in New York. Initially we were affiliated with the New York State Department of Health, but became a part of the Department of Environmental Conservation when it was created in the early 1970s. We have seen much progress in air pollution control efforts since the early days. Long term air quality trends show definite improvements in spite of population growth and increase of vehicle-miles traveled.

It is our intention to use this medium to provide the public with convenient access to current information. We will continue to strive for clean air, and will update the materials on this site as promptly as possible.


More about Division of Air Resources:

  • Air Quality Planning - The Bureau of Air Quality Planning is charged with developing the State Implementation Plans (SIPs) to address continuing air pollution problems in New York State.
  • Air Quality Analysis and Research - Basic and applied research on the fate of pollutants in the atmosphere through mathematical modeling and data analysis, air toxics program, and acidic deposition in lake waters
  • Air Quality Surveillance - The Bureau of Air Quality Surveillance is responsible for the operation of the ambient air quality monitoring network for the state.
  • Quality Assurance - Quality Assurance for the Division of Air Resources Programs
  • Stationary Sources - The Bureau of Stationary Sources coordinates the air permitting program, develops and modifies air quality regulations, and administers the AFS computer system.
  • Mobile Sources and Technology Development - Bureau of Mobile Sources and Technology Development