On November 13, 2014, Ohio EPA issued draft amendments to the rules in OAC Chapter 3745-31 governing the Permit-to-Install New Sources and Permit-to-Install and Operate Program. The draft amendments include:
· reorganizational changes throughout OAC 3745-31-03 addressing exemptions and permits by rule (PBR) to clarify the difference between a true exemption from New Source Review and a PBR which is alternative to obtaining a paper permit;
· additional exemptions and PBR provisions including a PBR for horizontal well completion operations;
· revised permit processing provisions; and
· changes to the acceptable site preparation activities prior to obtaining a final permit.
Comments must be submitted to Ohio EPA, Division of Air Pollution Control, by December 16, 2014.