Smoke School Information in Maryland

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 »

IN-PERSON SMOKE SCHOOLS:
Compliance Assurance offers 1 public smoke school in Maryland. Classes are available in Salisbury. Smoke School Schedule for MD »

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.

Maryland Acceptance Status for VirtualOpacity® — EPA ALT-152A

Accepted.

Maryland Acceptance Letter »

Maryland Visible Emissions / Opacity Standard

The opacity limit for Maryland is Areas I, II, V, VI: 20% opacity; Areas III & IV (Baltimore metro & metropolitan DC): NO visible emissions whatsoever (anything visible other than uncombined water is a violation); SSM exception <=40% for <=6 consecutive min per 60 min, as established under COMAR 26.11.06.02C(1) (Areas I, II, V, VI) and 26.11.06.02C(2) (Areas III & IV); SSM at 26.11.06.02A(2).

Compliance is demonstrated via EPA Method 9 or other federally approved test method per Department TM 91-01.

Averaging period: Standard applies continuously; exception: ≤40% for no more than 6 consecutive minutes in any 60-min period during startup/shutdown/process modifications

Maryland has a geographic area system: Areas I, II, V, VI (densely populated or nonattainment areas) = 20% limit; Areas III and IV = any visible emissions prohibited (effectively 0%). This is one of the most stringent state visible emissions standards in the U.S. Sources may apply for a case-by-case alternative standard.

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 Maryland

Maryland Department of the Environment - Air Quality Permits Program
Website: https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/air/
Phone: (410) 537-3000
Address: 1800 Washington Blvd, Suite 720, Baltimore, MD 21224

Compliance Assurance Public In-Person Smoke Schools in Maryland

Date School Name CAA
ID		 Additional Session(s)
(May be second day or afternoon session)
09/11/2026 Salisbury, MD 8474