Wood Stoves
Fireplaces and wood stoves are cozy and comforting but they can cause serious air
pollution problems if they aren't used efficiently. In our north county areas, higher
levels of particulates (small airborne particles like soot) are often measured during
the months of December to March when residential wood burning is common. Smoke from
woodstoves and fireplaces contain many different air pollutants, including particulate
matter (fine solid or liquid particles), carbon monoxide, and organic gases, which can
be produced at unhealthy levels both inside and outside of our homes. Studies show that
these pollutants can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease and cancer. They
also contribute to reduced visibility in our atmosphere, and harm soil, agricultural
crops and other vegetation.
For tips on how to burn cleaner, read our Woodburning
Tips for Clean Fireplace and Wood Stove Burning.
For more information visit the Woodstove
pages on the EPA web site and checkout the California
Air Resources Board Handbook.
The District Rule
The Residential Wood Combustion Rule (Rule
504) was adopted by the APCD Board in 1993 to reduce emissions from incomplete
combustion of wood in residential wood stoves and fireplaces throughout the county. The
requirements of the rule are as follows:
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Only District approved devices are allowed
in new and remodeled construction.
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Woodburning devices classified as antique or having historical significance,
woodburning cookstoves, furnaces and boilers are exempt from the rule.
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Woodburning devices in existing homes are not affected by the rule, and there
are no conditions placed on continued use of those devices upon the sale of an
existing home.
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Used woodburning devices which do not meet the established emission limits may
not be resold within the county.
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Retailers will be required to distribute literature containing clean burning
tips and other relevant information with each sale of a woodburning device.
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A voluntary curtailment program may be implemented by the District in which
residents are asked not to burn on days where pollution levels are predicted to be
high. Residents with District approved devices will be exempt from this program.
Contact us for more information on
the local San Luis Obispo County woodstove requirements.
Contact your local woodstove vendor for more information on
available devices.
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