Architectural Coatings: National Volatile Organic Compounds Emission Standards

Rule Summary

This final rule is based on the Administrator’s determination that VOC emissions from the use of architectural coatings have the potential to cause or contribute to ozone levels that violate the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for ozone.

Ozone is a major component of smog which causes negative health and environmental impacts when present in high concentrations at ground level. The final rule is estimated to reduce VOC emissions by 103,000 megagrams per year (Mg/yr) (113,500 tons per year [tpy]) by requiring manufacturers and importers to limit the VOC content of architectural coatings.

Rule History

02/16/2000 – Final Rule; Amendments

06/30/1999 – Final Rule; Corrections and Amendments

06/15/1999 – Federal Register Correction

10/14/1998 – Federal Register Correction

09/11/1998 – Final Rule

09/03/1996 – Correction of Proposed Rule; Extension of Public Comment Period

06/25/1996 – Proposed Rule

Additional Resources

1998 Final Air Regulation for Architectural Coatings Fact Sheet

Background for Promulgated Standards

Response To Comments On Section 183(e) Study and Report To Congress

Compliance

Questions and Answers for Architectural Coatings Rule

Small Entity Compliance Guide National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards For Architectural Coatings