California EPA Air Resources Board VOC Requirements

ARB has amended the architectural coatings VOC limits described in the Suggested Control Measures (SCM) model rule several times, most recently in 2000 and then again in 2007. Some of the 35 individual air districts have adopted or customized the SCMs for their own Architectural Coatings Rule based on their unique air pollution problems while others have remained under the EPA National AIM rule.

ARB AIM Rule Exemptions:

• Small container exemption allows the sale of coatings above maximum VOC limits if packaged in containers of one liter or less for all categories.
• CA air district rules typically includes a three year sell-through provision allowing the sale of coatings above the maximum VOC limits if manufactured prior to the effective data for rule changes.

For current AIM VOC information, please visit www.arb.ca.gov.