Air District fines Republic Services $159,000 for landfill gas violations

In June 2023, the Air District found several methane leaks at the landfill: nine near the landfill surface, four in landfill gas collection systems, and one well that was leaking landfill gas because it was under too much pressure. Republic Services failed to meet the Air District’s standards for landfill gas emissions and started to repair their facility after violations were issued, but some repairs took up to 14 days to complete.

Altogether, Republic Services committed at least 179 days of excess landfill gas emission violations. Landfill gas is mostly methane but also contains volatile organic compounds and hazardous air pollutants that can contribute to smog formation and pose potential health risks. The impact of these emissions can range from mild to severe because small leaks may cause odors and minor irritation, while larger leaks can harm air quality, increase health risks for nearby communities, and contribute to climate change.

All cited violations have been corrected.

The Air District issues Notices of Violation when facilities violate air quality regulations or rules. Violators are generally required to respond to the notice within 10 days and submit a description of the actions they will take to correct the problem. These actions can include shutting down certain operations immediately or changing operations or equipment to come into compliance.

In 2024, the Bay Area Air District’s Board of Directors adopted a policy directing a portion of collected penalty funds to be used in the community that is impacted by the violation. These funds will support local projects aimed at reducing pollution and improving public health.

View press release(220 Kb PDF, 2 pgs, posted 2025/10/28).