Air Quality and Wildfire Smoke
What is the air quality today?
Check the current air quality on DEQ’s real-time air quality monitoring map. To see air quality forecasts, use DEQ’s air quality forecast tool.
Where is the smoke coming from?
Check the Fire and Smoke map and turn on the “NOAA smoke plumes” layer to see where the smoke may be coming from. For information on specific fires and locations, check out InciWeb.
How can I stay healthy during a smoke event?
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Wildfire Smoke Fact Sheet offers tips for protecting yourself from smoke. If you have a respiratory issue, make a plan with your doctor before the wildfire season begins.
Is it safe to go outside for recess or sports activities during a smoke event?
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare offers a Community Guide for Staying Healthy During Wildfire Smoke Events and Activity Guidelines for Wildfire Smoke Events. These resources can help you decide whether it’s safe to be outside.
Who do I speak to about asbestos?
DEQ oversees the abatement and disposal of asbestos-containing materials at Tier 1 major facilities. Email emanuel.ziolkowski@deq.idaho.gov or laurie.kuther@deq.idaho.gov with questions or see DEQ’s Air Quality Compliance Assistance web page.
EPA Region 10 has jurisdiction over all nonmajor facilities (e.g., public, commercial, and institutional structures). Email gregory.andrew@epa.gov for questions about nonmajor facilities.
Where can I find information on aircraft emissions and condensation trails?
DEQ does not regulate contrails. For more information on aircraft emissions or to access EPA’s or the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) aircraft regulations, visit the Regulations for Emissions from Aircraft. The FAA also has a website on emissions with links to contrails research.
Which air quality pollutants does DEQ monitor?
See the Air Quality Monitoring Network web page to learn about the pollutants DEQ monitors.
Complaints and Concerns
How do I submit an environmental concern?
Submit a concern using DEQ’s Environmental Concern Form.
How do I report an environmental spill?
Report a spill using DEQ’s Environmental Concern Form.
How do I report animal odor issues (e.g. cattle feedlots, manure, pesticides)?
Contact the nearest DEQ regional office and a DEQ employee will work with you on your concern.
Where can I report smoke-related concerns?
Use this online form or call the smoke hotline at (800) 345-1007.
Who do I speak with about illegal burning or burying of tires?
DEQ and Idaho’s public health districts provide complaint follow-up for open or illegal burning and dumping. Contact one of the following entities:
Drinking Water
Which drinking water contaminants are regulated?
Some contaminants are regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act, while others are unregulated. More information on both regulated and unregulated contaminants can be found on DEQ’s Contaminants in Drinking Water page.
Can DEQ help my private community upgrade its facilities?
Yes, DEQ can help private communities upgrade water or wastewater facilities if they operate as a community water system serving at least 15 connections or 25 year-round residents. While noncommunity water systems (transient and nontransient) may have limited funding eligibility, they can still receive technical support. Individual private wells are not eligible.
DEQ’s Facility Planning Grants cover up to 50% of eligible costs for engineering studies to improve wastewater and drinking water facilities. The State Revolving Fund Loans offer low-interest loans for design and construction of drinking water and wastewater projects.
Contact grants.loans@deq.idaho.gov with questions.
How can I get my city or well water tested?
There is no need to test city water. Your provider conducts regular tests. To access results, contact your local water supplier or use DEQ’s Drinking Water Watch tool. Learn more on DEQ’s General Information on Drinking Water page.
Homeowners are responsible for testing their own wells and should follow these guidelines:
- Test annually for bacteria and nitrate
- Test every 3–5 years for arsenic, uranium, fluoride, metals
- Test every 2–3 years for lead (especially Idaho homes built before 1988)
For more information, see DEQ’s Private Well Testing Guide and DEQ’s Information on Private Wells.
What rules are campsites required to follow for potable water services?
In Idaho, campgrounds with privately owned water systems, whether primitive, seasonal, or year-round, are subject to different drinking water regulations based on the number and duration of people served. These factors determine the type of public water system (PWS) under IDAPA 58.01.08.003. Regulated systems must meet DEQ standards for water quality (IDAPA 58.01.02) and system maintenance (IDAPA 58.01.08). See the table below for campground-specific details.
Table 1: Regulatory Classification of Privately Owned Campground Water Systems
| Campground Type | PWS Classification Type | Service Types | Criteria (People) | Criteria (Time) | Regulation Level | Regulation Type | Other Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primitive | None | No Services | None | None | None | None | Not Applicable |
| Seasonal | Transient Noncommunity Water Systems (TNC) | Drinking Water | Average of 25 or more temporary users | At least 5 months | Moderate | Seasonal Startup Procedures | Fairgrounds, rest stops, and gas stations |
| Year-Round | Nontransient Noncommunity Water Systems (NTNC) | Drinking Water and Sewer | Non-residential systems serving at least 25 of the same people for over 6 months | Over 6 months | High | Year-Round Regulation | Schools, hospitals, and factories |
Where can I access sample results for my public water system?
Sample results are available on DEQ’s Drinking Water Watch tool. Enter a system’s name, PWS number, or location to access test results and compliance info. Find additional information on DEQ’s Public Water System Switchboard.
What labs are certified to perform drinking water analyses in Idaho?
Labs certified to perform drinking water analyses in Idaho are managed by the Idaho Bureau of Laboratories (IBL) and available here: List of certified labs. These labs meet EPA standards for water quality testing. More information can be found on DEQ’s Contaminants in Drinking Water page.
Where can I access compliance resources for public drinking water system regulations?
All compliance resources for public drinking water systems are based on the “Idaho Rules for Public Drinking Water Systems” (IDAPA 58.01.08). Additional information is available on the following DEQ web pages:
- Public Water System Switchboard—Tools, forms, and guidance
- System Classification and Supervision Requirements—General Information
- Sanitary Surveys—Information on required system inspections
- Capacity Development—Help improving system operations
How can I get information my bank requires for a mortgage/refinance regarding drinking water quality?
Banks and mortgage lenders typically require proof of safe drinking water. The “Idaho Rules for Public Drinking Water Systems” (IDAPA 58.01.08) requires properties served by a community public water system (i.e., serving at least 15 connections or 25 people who live there year-round) to provide a Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). If the property uses a private well, lenders may require certified lab testing to confirm water quality. Contact your water provider for a CCR copy.
For private well testing information, see DEQ’s Contaminants in Drinking Water web page, DEQ’s Private Well Testing Guide, and the Idaho Bureau of Laboratories list of certified labs.
How do I find out if there's lead in our old water lines?
There are several steps you can take to check for lead in service lines:
- Check Your Home’s Age: Idaho homes built before 1988 are more likely to have lead components.
- Inspect Plumbing Infrastructure: Look for gray, soft metal (possible lead) or galvanized steel pipes.
- Contact Your Water Provider: Ask for information about your service line materials and available testing.
- Test Your Water: Use a certified lab to check lead levels. DEQ offers resources and guidance on water testing.
Common sources of lead in water lines include:
- Lead service lines installed before the 1930s
- Lead-based solder used in copper plumbing prior to Idaho’s 1988 ban on lead materials
- Galvanized steel pipes downstream of lead pipes, which can accumulate and release lead over time
Learn more on DEQ’s Lead in Drinking Water page, Contaminants in Drinking Water page, and DEQ’s Private Well Testing Guide.
Financial
How do I make a payment or submit a payment question?
Submit payment questions or make a payment here.
How do I apply for a grant or lean (e.g. wastewater, drinking water, surface water, brownfields)?
Links to funding applications are found on page 7 of DEQ’s Grants and Loans Customer Handbook. The handbook link is at the bottom of the Facility Planning Grants page.
What are the requirements for receiving grant money from DEQ?
Eligible entities must submit a letter of interest (LOI) to DEQ. LOIs are then rated and ranked by DEQ staff. The highest ranked, ready-to-proceed projects make it on DEQ’s fundable lists. The LOI form is also found at the bottom of the Facility Planning Grants page.
Are there DEQ programs where principal forgiveness applies?
Communities that meet disadvantaged criteria, as established in the “Rules for Administration of Wastewater and Drinking Water Loan Funds” (IDAPA 58.01.12 Section 021), can qualify for a disadvantaged loan, which may include principal forgiveness. The details of disadvantaged criteria are available in DEQ’s Intended Use Plan.
Groundwater
How can I find groundwater quality data near me?
Groundwater monitoring data is available on DEQ’s Groundwater Monitoring and Protection page. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare also provides an interactive map for private well owners identifying groundwater quality data. Private wells displayed on the map were sampled by the Idaho Department of Water Resources, DEQ, the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, and private well owners between 2004 and 2020. Each well contains the most recent sampling results for up to nine chemicals, the year it was sampled, the sampling agency, and the well depth if it is known.
Agencies may have additional data that has not been included as part of this map. Site-specific groundwater data can be made available by contacting the pertinent state agency.
What is DEQ's role in managed aquifer recharge?
The Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) oversees managed aquifer recharge through direct injection (by way of deep wells) under the Underground Injection Program and through water rights management responsibilities. DEQ oversees recharge through land application/spreading basins, which are large basins or natural depressions used to increase the infiltration of surface water into an aquifer.
Where are managed aquifer recharge projects located?
The Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) maintains a map of spreading basin projects funded by the Idaho Water Resources Board. See IDWR’s Aquifer Stabilization for more information. IDWR does not currently maintain a map of managed aquifer recharge projects that use direct injection under the Underground Injection Control Program or privately managed aquifer recharge projects.
DEQ’s Idaho Source Water Assessment online mapping application shows the location of known managed aquifer recharge land application (i.e., spreading basing) projects. The map also shows deep and shallow injection wells, but they may not be installed/permitted for recharge.
Outdoor Burning
What can I burn?
Unless a burn ban is in effect or other restrictions apply, outdoor open burning of allowed materials may proceed. Always check with your local fire department prior to ignition.
Do I need a burn permit?
Crop residue burning requires a DEQ burn permit. Growers registered to burn with DEQ are automatically registered for a fire safety permit with the Idaho Department of Lands. Growers must complete these steps before burning crop residue:
- Create an account and register fields for burning
- Complete the grower training
- Notify DEQ when you are ready to burn
- Follow all permit conditions and stay in contact with DEQ
All other allowable burning (e.g., slash piles and yard waste) requires a fire safety burn permit from the Idaho Department of Lands from May 10 through October 20 each year. Check DEQ’s Air Quality Advisories and Outdoor Burning Restrictions by County Map prior to ignition. Always check with your local fire department for additional fire safety requirements.
Can I burn my slash pile today?
Check DEQ’s Air Quality Advisories and Outdoor Burning Restrictions by County Map prior to ignition. If no air quality advisory or other restrictions are in effect, burning of allowed materials may proceed.
Who do I contact about local burn bans?
Visit DEQ’s Air Quality Advisories and Outdoor Burning Restrictions by County Map for current air quality burning restrictions. Always check with your local fire department before burning.
Can I have a campfire or use a fire pit when an Air Quality Advisory is in effect?
No, campfires and fire pits are not allowed during an Air Quality Advisory. Barbeques are allowed.
Septic Systems
Who do I speak with about a septic system (e.g., new or leaking system)
Idaho’s health districts oversee septic systems, including individual, large soil absorption, or alternative systems). Contact your local health district with questions on permitting, installation, inspections, and maintenance oversight. See DEQ’s Septic and Septage page for more information.
Surface Water
Can I scatter family ashes in Idaho's water bodies?
DEQ does not regulate the scattering of ashes into rivers or other surface waters, but this action can violate state and federal water quality laws if done in a way that causes visible residue or nuisance conditions. Consult with the overseeing agency (e.g., U.S. Forest Service, city of Boise, Bureau of Land Management) before scattering ashes.
Do all industrial facilities need a storm water permit?
Yes, industrial facilities that discharge storm water generally require coverage under a storm water permit, typically the Industrial Multi Sector Storm Water General Permit. Find details and download permit documents on DEQ’s Storm Water Permits web page.
How do I obtain a dredging permit?
Apply for a dredging permit through DEQ’s E-Permitting System. For assistance, please contact the IPDES E-Permitting Support at (833) 473-3724 or IPDESE-Permitting@deq.idaho.gov. For additional information, refer to the IPDES User’s Guide to Permitting and Compliance Volume 4—General Permits excluding Storm Water.
How do I apply for an IPDES permit?
Applicants must use the Idaho Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Program (IPDES) E-Permitting System. Applications typically begin with a notice of intent submission. See DEQ’s IPDES User’s Guide, Volumes 1–4 for detailed guidance:
Does my construction project need a storm water pollution prevention plan and permit?
Owners and operators of construction projects that disturb one or more acres (or are part of a common plan of development that disturbs one or more acres) and discharge storm water must obtain coverage under the storm water construction general permit and develop a SWPPP. See DEQ’s Storm Water Permits page for more information.
How can I check to see if a local water body has a harmful algal bloom?
Check the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Recreational Water Health Advisories map.
How do I report a potential algal bloom?
Report a potential harmful algal bloom by using this online form, calling (866) 671-5385, or emailing algae@deq.idaho.gov.
Waste Management
How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?
Most household hazardous waste is not regulated by DEQ. See DEQ’s Residential Waste web page for information on the safe handling and disposal of materials such as used oil, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and more.
How do I dispose of business waste?
Disposal of business waste, including spent solvents, sumps, electronics, and more, may be subject to local, state, and federal requirements. See DEQ’s Common Business Waste page for specific disposal requirements.