Title V is one of several programs authorized by the U. S. Congress in the 1990 Amendments to the federal Clean Air Act (CAA). The primary intent of the Title V Program is threefold:
- Enhance nationwide compliance with the Clean Air Act
- Provide the basis for better emission inventories
- Provide a standard means to implement the following other programs in the federal Clean Air Act:
- Hazardous Air Pollutants (CAA 112);
- Periodic Monitoring (CAA 114 and 504); and
- Acid Rain (CAA Title IV)
The Title V Program requires local and state air quality agencies to issue comprehensive operating permits to facilities that emit significant amounts of air pollutants. For all implementing agencies in the country, there are standard requirements for permit programs and permit content.
Title V operating permits differ from other Air District issued operating permits in that they explicitly include the requirements of all regulations that apply to operations at Title V facilities.
Fees, sufficient to administer the program, are required to be paid by the permittee.