Permit to Operate (PTO)

Permit to Operate (PTO)

A Permit to Operate (PTO) is a regulatory requirement issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) for facilities that operate air pollution-emitting equipment or sources. It ensures compliance with the Clean Air Act of 1999 (RA 8749) and DENR regulations.

As an experienced environmental consultant in the Philippines, we help businesses secure PTOs quickly while complying with all DENR technical and legal requirements.

What Is a PTO?

A Permit to Operate certifies that:

  • Your facility’s air pollution sources meet emission standards
  • Pollution control devices are properly installed and functioning
  • The facility complies with the Clean Air Act and DENR MCs
  • Continuous monitoring and reporting obligations are understood and in place

PTO Application Process (Step-by-Step)

  1. 1

    Prepare Facility Documents

    List of all air pollution sources, equipment specifications, pollution control devices installed, and facility layout maps.

  2. 2

    Submit Application to EMB

    Include completed forms, supporting documents, and pay filing fees.

  3. 3

    Initial EMB Inspection

    EMB technical team inspects pollution sources and control devices to verify compliance.

  4. 4

    Emission Testing

    Conducted by EMB or accredited testing laboratory to ensure pollutant levels meet regulatory limits.

  5. 5

    PTO Issuance

    EMB issues PTO with a validity period (usually 1–5 years) and specific monitoring conditions.

Why Hire a PTO Consultant?

A professional environmental consultant:

Prepares DENR-compliant documents
Coordinates with EMB inspection teams
Ensures proper emission testing
Integrates PTO with other compliance docs
Saves time and prevents fines

DIY submissions often result in failed inspections and multiple re-submissions.

Our PTO Consulting Services

We provide:

  • PTO application preparation and submission
  • Equipment and facility emission evaluation
  • Pollution control device assessment
  • EMB coordination and inspection support
  • Renewal and compliance management

Serving clients across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Region III, CALABARZON, Region 4B, Nationwide.

Request a PTO Compliance Assessment

Ensure your facility meets Philippine Clean Air Act requirements and avoid operational interruptions.

Request a Quote
Legal Basis

RA 8749 – Philippine Clean Air Act

DENR DAO 2000-81 – PTO Guidelines

DENR MC 2006-09 – Emission Testing

Who Needs a PTO?

Facilities with air pollution sources.

Examples: Factories, power plants, facilities with boilers or generators, paint booths, etc.

Key Documents

PTO application form

Facility layout and process flows

List of air pollution sources

Pollution control device specs

ECC (if applicable)

Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

Validity & Renewal
Validity1–5 years
RenewalBefore expiry

Renewal is mandatory to avoid penalties.

Common Rejection Reasons

Incomplete documents

Non-functional control devices

Incorrect emission data

Missing ECC

Failed emission test