Smoke School Information in Iowa
Smoke school and state air quality information
VIRTUAL SMOKE SCHOOLS:
The Federal EPA has approved CAA's VirtualOpacity® VR smoke school. See below for this state's acceptance status. Read the EPA's approval letter »
Learn about VirtualOpacity »
VIRTUAL SMOKE SCHOOLS:
There are no upcoming public smoke schools in IA. Check below for the status of our virtual reality implementation for Iowa, or email us to request a school in your area.
PRIVATE IN-PERSON SMOKE SCHOOLS:
Compliance Assurance offers private, on-site smoke schools that are affordable and convenient. Learn more »
Have questions? Call us at 901-381-9960 or email info@compliance-assurance.com.
Iowa Acceptance Status for VirtualOpacity® — EPA ALT-152A
Accepted.
Iowa Visible Emissions / Opacity Standard
The opacity limit for Iowa is 40% opacity (general standard for all equipment, engines, stacks), as established under 567 IAC 23.3(2)"d".
Compliance is demonstrated via EPA Method 9; Iowa Admin. Code Chapter 21 specifies observer qualifications and certification requirements.
Averaging period: No specific 6-minute averaging stated in general rule; exceptions apply to diesel vehicles (40% for ≤5 seconds), etc.
Iowa's general visible emissions standard of 40% is among the more permissive nationally. Chapter 21 specifies qualifications for certified visible emissions observers. Specific permit conditions or source categories may impose more stringent limits.
Last verified July 8, 2026
Note: Regulations change — always verify current requirements with your state's air quality agency before making compliance decisions. This page is for informational purposes and is not legal advice; consult a qualified attorney or environmental compliance professional for guidance specific to your facility.
Air Quality Agency Information for Iowa
Website: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Air-Quality
Phone: (515) 725-8200
Address: 502 E. 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319
Linn County Public Health Department - Air Quality Division
Website: https://www.linncleanair.org/
Phone: (319) 892-6000
Address: 1020 6th Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
Polk County Public Works - Air Quality Division
Website: https://www.polkcountyiowa.gov/airquality/
Phone: (515) 286-3705
Address: 5885 NE 14th Street, Des Moines, IA 50313-1296