Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District’s (APCD) popular Old Car Buy Back Program has undergone a major upgrade, and is now accepting vehicles model year 2002 or older and is now paying participants $2,200 per vehicle. Previously, only cars model year 1997 or older were accepted, and participants were paid $1,000.
Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is offering to install approximately 150 air quality sensors at schools, government buildings, and nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Barbara County to measure fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, from smoke, soot, and dust. Air quality sensors — such as PurpleAir sensors — are great for capturing neighborhood-level air quality conditions and complement APCD’s existing network of permanent air quality monitoring stations.
Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (District), Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition (C5), Electric Ride 805, and other partners are excited to sponsor a series of free in-person and virtual events during National Drive Electric Month (September 12 – October 12).
National Drive Electric Month is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness of all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Local events will provide opportunities for the public to experience a wide range of electric vehicles (EVs), connect with EV owners, and learn how to take advantage of financial incentives before they expire.
MEDIA STATEMENT August 15, 2025 Contact: Lyz Bantilan, Public Information Officer, (805) 979-8283 Statement from Santa Barbara County APCD Executive Director Aeron Arlin Genet re:
The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and County of Santa Barbara Health Department have upgraded the Air Quality Watch to an Alert for the Cuyama area, which is in closest proximity to the Madre Fire. Smoke and ash from the Madre Fire is affecting air quality. Conditions can change quickly, and an Air Quality Watch remains in effect for the rest of the county.
Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is excited to announce that the 2025 Clean Air Grant program application window is open. Applications will be accepted starting today, Monday, July 28, through Friday, September 5. Approximately $3.5 million is available for voluntary Clean Air Grant projects this year.
The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and County of Santa Barbara Health Department have upgraded the Air Quality Watch to an Alert for the Cuyama area, which is in closest proximity to the Madre Fire. Smoke and ash from the Madre Fire is affecting air quality. Conditions can change quickly, and an Air Quality Watch remains in effect for the rest of the county.
The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District and County of Santa Barbara Health Department issued an Air Quality Watch for Santa Barbara County to be in effect until conditions improve. The Madre Fire burning along Highway 166 between Highway 101 and New Cuyama is producing significant smoke; currently, ground-level conditions are good to moderate countywide.
The Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, and Ventura County Air Pollution Control Districts (APCD) encourage residents to prepare for potential poor air quality caused by smoke, now that the area has entered peak wildfire season.
Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles known as particulate matter that can travel hundreds of miles. These particles harm the lungs and heart and can cause coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty, chest pain, nausea and, in severe instances, premature mortality. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, kids, and pregnant women are especially sensitive.
The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. Take these steps to stay safe.
Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is excited to announce a free electric off-road and landscape equipment demonstration:
WHEN: Wednesday, July 9, 10AM to 1PM
WHERE: Allan Hancock College – South Campus Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) Track, 1300 South College Drive, Santa Maria
