Date
Monday, March 30, 2026
The Air District has fined Anheuser-Busch $2.3 million for multiple air quality violations at its brewery in Fairfield.
This penalty primarily stems from elevated emissions and issues with the incorrect installation and operation of emissions monitoring. The facility showed elevated hydrogen sulfide levels in its biogas going into the facility’s boilers. When hydrogen sulfide is burned, it can turn into sulfur dioxide, a harmful pollutant which can contribute to poor air quality and affect public health.
Additional violations include failure to submit required reports, operation of equipment without the necessary permits, and operating in a way inconsistent with representations made in permit applications.
In addition to the $2.3 million penalty, the Air District required Anheuser-Busch to install monitoring equipment to ensure accurate measurement of emissions and compliance with Air District regulations.
Anheuser-Busch has now addressed all of these violations. In December 2025, the company announced that it would close three of its breweries nationwide, including its Fairfield facility. The Air District will allocate penalty funds in accordance with its Community Benefits Penalty Funds Policy, supporting projects that reduce air pollution or its impacts and improve public health in affected communities.
The Air District continually improves its emissions and air quality measurement programs as technology and air quality data needs evolve, particularly for communities disproportionately impacted by air pollution. For more information about the Air District’s process, methods, and goals for air quality, visit the Air District's Air Quality Plans web page.
View Penalties and Settlements web page.
View press release.
Last Updated: 3/30/2026