The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Governing Board sets the policy direction for the District by adopting the District Rules and Regulations, air quality attainment plans, the annual budget, and schedule of fees. The Governing Board also appoints the Air Pollution Control Officer, and the Hearing Board members. 

The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District Hearing Board considers variance requests from permitted entities, permit appeals from permittees or members of the public, and requests for abatement orders.