MILPITAS, CA — A South Bay landfill blamed for persistent odors across several communities has been ordered to install stronger pollution controls and real-time monitoring after years of complaints from residents.
The Bay Area Air District's Hearing Board issued an abatement order requiring operators of the Newby Island Resource Recovery Park in Milpitas to take a series of steps aimed at reducing landfill gas emissions and odors.
The order comes after residents in Milpitas, San Jose, Fremont and Newark repeatedly complained about smells coming from the facility. A 2024 Air District study identified Newby Island as a major source of the odors, according to the agency.
"Families in the South Bay have lived with persistent odors and uncertainty about what is in the air near their homes," said Philip Fine Air District executive officer. "This order establishes enforceable deadlines, stronger monitoring and clear consequences if Newby Island fails to comply."
Among the requirements, Newby Island's operators must install continuous monitoring equipment to provide real-time data on hydrogen sulfide emissions and automate the landfill's gas collection system so gas wells can be continuously monitored and adjusted.
The facility must also use drones to improve detection of methane leaks and install air monitors along its property line to track odors, according to the Air District.
Hydrogen sulfide, which produces a rotten-egg-like smell, has been a particular concern. The Air District said exposure can be associated with headaches, nausea, breathing difficulties and worsening asthma.
The latest action follows a December 2025 Air District investigation that found the facility had improperly measured hydrogen sulfide emissions, resulting in pollution concentrations being underreported. The agency subsequently ordered continuous emissions monitoring.
Newby Island is operated by International Disposal Corp. of California and Browning-Ferris Industries of California Inc.
The Air District said it will monitor compliance with the new requirements and could pursue further enforcement if deadlines are missed.
The operators also face potential fines for the violations that led to the order. Those penalties will be determined separately because the Hearing Board does not have authority to impose monetary fines.
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