City Reminder: Cover Truck Loads in Air Quality Control Zone

CITY ISSUES REMINDER REGARDING UNCOVERED TRUCK LOADS WITHIN AIR QUALITY CONTROL ZONE

RAPID CITY, SD—City Environmental Planner Morgan Twombly reminds the public that all truck loads must be covered for drivers passing through the City’s Air Quality Control Zone. 

            It is a violation of Rapid City Municipal Code to transport materials that have the potential to emit fugitive dust without a covering.  All vehicles used for transporting such materials must be equipped with a tarp.

            “This includes those passing through Rapid City on the interstate as well as those hauling material outside the City but within the Air Quality Control Zone.  The zone is a 10x10 mile area around all of Rapid City, excluding the portion which is located within the city limits of Box Elder,” said Twombly.  “Truck loads, no matter how small, must be covered, and large material is not exempt.”

            Twombly said the issue greatly impacts Rapid City’s air quality, “This is an issue that has persisted for quite some time and directly contributes to Rapid City’s air quality,” Twombly said.  “Contractors, in particular, are well aware of the requirement.”

            Contractors are advised covering truck loads is a stipulation of approval for air quality permits, and failure to cover loads will result in fines up to $500 per day of violation or 30 days in jail.

            For more information, contact the City’s Air Quality Office at 605-394-4120.