EPA redesignates Cleveland area to “attainment” for ozone; area now meets air quality standards

EPA redesignates Cleveland area to "attainment" for ozone; area now meets air quality standards

Decision comes after more than a 40% decrease in pollutants over eight years

June 23, 2026

Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the Cleveland, Ohio, area is now in "attainment" for ground-level ozone based on years of air monitoring data showing the region meets the national standard set in 2015. This is a victory for cooperative federalism and, once again, shows that clean air and economic growth go hand-in-hand.

This decision will lead to faster and more predictable air permitting in the Cleveland area while existing pollution controls and monitoring will ensure air quality continues to improve. Federal law requires a maintenance plan to keep the area in attainment for at least 10 years.

The Cleveland area covered by this action includes Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties.

"Reaching attainment is more than a regulatory milestone-it's a sign that the actions taken across Northeast Ohio are making a measurable difference in the air people breathe," said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "EPA will continue partnering with communities and industry to build on this progress."

"This designation is the result of years of collaboration among federal, state, and local partners working toward cleaner air for Northeast Ohio," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. "Through strong environmental stewardship, effective air quality programs, and the commitment of communities across the Cleveland area, we have achieved an important milestone that will benefit all Ohio families."

"The EPA's announcement is great news for Ohio manufacturers and consumers. Without burdensome regulations and compliance issues for our job creators, Ohioans will be able to streamline production and see lower costs. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor DeWine and Administrator Zeldin to cut red tape and make life easier and more affordable for workers and families," said U.S. Sen. Jon Husted.

"This is great news for Northeast Ohio and is just in time for summer travel season as visitors head to Lake Erie," said U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno. "I applaud the collaboration between businesses and local leaders for their work reducing bureaucratic red tape so our communities can be healthier, attract investment, and continue strengthening our economy."

"EPA's decision to redesignate the Cleveland area to attainment for ozone shows the commitment Ohioans have to ensuring Northeast Ohio and the surrounding areas have clean air. By working together to cut pollutants that create ozone over the past several years, Northeast Ohio will be able to secure more predictable and timely air permits, while maintaining clean air standards. As a Member of the Environment Subcommittee on the House Energy and Commerce Committee with jurisdiction over these issues, I understand how important this milestone is for Ohio," said U.S. Rep. Bob Latta.

In 2018, the EPA designated the Cleveland area as "nonattainment" for the 2015 ozone standard after monitoring showed levels above the allowable limit. Since then, EPA, Ohio EPA, local governments, and industry worked together to cut pollutants that form ozone-nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As a result, NOx emissions in the area fell by about 42% and VOC emissions by about 25%.

EPA proposed this redesignation in April. A copy of the final decision is available here.

To learn more about ground-level ozone and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, visit EPA's website.

For current air quality and ozone forecasts, visit the EPA AirNow app.