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

The Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is announcing its newly upgraded Permitted Facilities Map, which serves as an easy-to-use tool for the public to find and view records for all of the stationary sources of air pollution permitted by APCD. The map offers a full suite of unique and innovative features.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 2, 2025 En Español  Contacts: Lyz Bantilan, APCD Public Information Officer 805-979-8283   See news release issued by the Santa Barbara County Fire

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2025 En Español Contact: Lyz Bantilan, Public Information Officer, Santa Barbara County APCD: (805) 979-8283 Santa Barbara County Air Pollution

Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is pleased to announce the winners of its first “Keep Our Air Clean” Student Art Contest. Earlier this school year, APCD invited students from schools across Santa Barbara County to participate in the contest, offering students a platform to express their creativity and raise awareness about the importance of air quality and the actions that individuals and communities can take to maintain clean air.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 10, 2025 Contact: Lyz Bantilan, Public Information Officer, Santa Barbara County APCD: (805) 979-8283 10 Years of “Whale-Safer” Transits off California

  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 20, 2025 Contact: Lyz Bantilan, Public Information Officer, Santa Barbara County APCD: (805) 979-8283 49 International Shipping Companies Opt In