The TCEQ is publishing in the Texas Register a proposed revision to permitting replacing the current standard permit for the construction and/or modification of oil and gas production facilities with a new standard permit. The new standard permit contains significant new requirements including: a single site-wide authorization; authorization of planned maintenance, start-up, and shut down emissions; and requirements for emissions control and best management practices to ensure that emissions from oil and gas sites do not threaten human health. The proposed standard permit would also feature variable emission limits based on the height above ground of emission release points and distance from those release points to off-property receptors such as residences, institutions, and public areas. Beginning Jan. 5, 2012, facilities authorized under the current standard permit must meet the requirements of the new standard permit relating to MSS emissions. As of Jan. 1, 2015, upon renewal, the owner or operator of a facility would be required to fully comply with this new standard permit.
A public hearing on the proposed standard permit and related revisions to the permit by rule for oil and gas sites will be held on Sept. 14, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Building E, Room 201S, 12100 Park 35 Circle, in Austin. Call the TCEQ’s Office of Permitting and Registration, Air Permits Division, at 512-239-1250 for copies of the proposed standard permit for oil and gas production facilities or go to the TCEQ website.