Wood Burning Fireplaces
Wood-Burning Rule
In July of 2008, the Air District passed Regulation 6, Rule 3: Wood-Burning Devices to reduce fine particulate matter air pollution from wood smoke.
How to Comply
Here is a quick overview of the requirements in the Air District's wood burning rule.
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Tips on Reducing Woodsmoke Pollution
During winter periods with cold brisk nights, there is a need to be aware of the impact wood burning fireplaces have on our environment.
There are several things you can do to reduce wood smoke pollution:
- Purchase a cleaner burning, low-emission hearth product
- Don't burn wet or moist firewood
- Never burn garbage, glossy paper, painted or chemically treated wood — these products create toxic smoke and fumes
- Don't build large, smoldering fires
- Have your chimney inspected on a regular basis — a professional chimney sweep should inspect your chimney once a year
- Give your fire plenty of room — a fire with a generous air supply reduces heavy smoke emissions
- Make sure your wood stove and fireplace inserts fit properly — inserts that are too large produce more heat than you need and create excess smoke when you use the damper
- Watch your chimney top — if you see heavy smoke coming out of your chimney the wood is not burning efficiently
- More tips and information
For more information on how you can reduce air pollution or convert your fireplaces to EPA certified natural gas or wood stoves please visit the Building Permit counter at City Hall, or visit the following websites:
