The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) adopted Rule 2305, the Warehouse Actions and Investments to Reduce Emissions (WAIRE) Program, in May 2021. This indirect source rule aims to reduce emissions from the goods movement industry, with a particular focus on warehouse facilities and their associated truck traffic.
Warehouse owners and operators should familiarize themselves with the requirements and resources to ensure timely compliance and avoid penalties. Whether you are new to the program or require a refresher, the information below provides essential guidance.
Who does this rule apply to?
Rule 2305 – WAIRE Program applies to warehouse facilities within the SCAQMD district that have at least 100,000 square feet of indoor floor space in a single building. Both warehouse owners and operators are subject to compliance and reporting requirements.
What are the requirements?
The WAIRE Program establishes compliance and reporting requirements for warehouse owners and operators to reduce emissions. It includes:
- WAIRE Points System:Warehouse operators are required to annually earn WAIRE points by completing actions from the WAIRE Menu, implementing an approved Custom WAIRE Plan, or paying a mitigation fee.
- Reporting Obligations:
- Warehouse owners must submit a Warehouse Operations Notification, an informational report to provide details about their buildings and tenants.
- Warehouse operators must submit a one-time Initial Site Information Report as well as Annual WAIRE Reports detailing facility operations and compliance approaches, due annually on January 31.
Rule 316 establishes fees to fund Rule 2305 compliance activities, ensuring the program is effectively implemented and monitored.
Rule 2305 – WAIRE Program Compliance Tools
To support compliance, the WAIRE Program provides several tools and resources:
- WAIRE User Calculator: Helps operators track and calculate points
- WON Spreadsheet Template: Standardized format for reporting building information
- Additional Resources: Online training videos, the Unforeseen Circumstances Application, and the WAIRE Program Online Portal for submitting reports and fees
Questions? We’re here to help.
Stay ahead of compliance deadlines and ensure your facility meets all WAIRE Program requirements. For support with annual reporting or to discuss any questions or concerns you may have, please contact Taylor Wheelon at taylor.wheelon@ehs-support.com or Jessica Myer at jessica.myer@ehs-support.com.
References
South Coast Air Quality Management District. (2021, May). WAIRE Program. https://www.aqmd.gov/home/rules-compliance/compliance/waire-program
