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Apply for a Permit to Install or Operate a Stationary Engine
Get permit application instructions for obtaining a permit to operate an internal combustion engine.
Due to utility-initiated power shutoffs, many residents are exploring emergency generator options. Visit the Air District's Power During Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) webpage to learn about backup power solutions and requirements: Public Safety Power Shutoff Events.
Who Needs a Permit?
- Anyone operating a stationary engine that is over 50 brake horsepower (bhp)
- Unless the engine is a portable engine that:
- will be located at a site for less than 72 consecutive hours, OR
- is registered with the California Portable Equipment Registration Program (PERP) AND will not be located at a fixed location for more than 12 consecutive months AND is not considered a necessary part of a stationary source operation. (Please contact the Air District if you need help with this determination.)
- Unless the engine is a portable engine that:
When Should You Apply for a Permit?
- Apply once a design has been selected but prior to purchasing.
- Submit permit applications as soon as possible but at least six months prior to the desired installation date.
- Engineering design changes may be required because of our evaluation, so applying as early as possible is recommended. Key Air District requirements, such as additional controls, are based on the date a permit application is deemed complete.
How to Apply?
- Follow the instruction on our Apply for an Authority to Construct/Permit to Operate page to either apply online or complete required forms to submit via mail.
- Be sure to include manufacturer engine specifications and site layout (with engine/stack location)
- If submitted via mail, calculate and include appropriate payment of fees (see Engine Fees)
- Review Common Incomplete Items
- Wait for approval before purchase and installation
Forms & Resources
Fill these forms out when submitting an application via mail:
- Permit Application Cover Form
- Internal Combustion Engine Form
- Health Risk Assessment Form
- Engine Fees
How to get Your Permit Faster?
You can help shorten the permit evaluation time by:
- Submitting the application via our Online Permitting System
- Submitting a complete application (see Common Incomplete Items)
- Responding promptly to information/fee requests
- Submitting payment electronically through our Online Payment System
- Selecting, sizing, and locating a proposed engine for faster permitting
- Selecting a natural gas engine in lieu of a diesel engine
- For a diesel standby engine,
- propose an EPA certified Tier 4 engine,
- select and locate an engine that either avoids a health risk assessment or qualifies for health risk assessment streamlining
- locating the engine exhaust point more than 1,000 feet away from any K-12 school
- For a natural gas or liquid petroleum gas standby engine,
- propose an engine with a three-way catalyst,
- For a diesel standby fire pump,
- propose a non-direct drive fire pump with EPA certified Tier 4 engine
Can an Engine Be Installed/Operated While Waiting on a Permit?
There are two ways an engine can be installed and operated while waiting for a permit:
- Use an engine that qualifies for a permit exemption, or
- Use an engine that already has an Air District-issued Permit to Operate.
Common Permitting Delays
The following are common items that cause permitting delays:
- Incomplete Application (see Common Incomplete Items)
- Delays in responding to information/fee requests
- Project does not comply with Regulation 2, Rule 5 risk assesment thresholds
- Project requires Public Noticing
- Engine does not comply with Best Available Control Technology (BACT) or BACT for Toxics (TBACT) requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Please review the FAQ document for additional important information to know before applying.
Engineering Division
BAAQMD
375 Beale St., Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94105
Last Updated: 9/29/2026