The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (the District) reminds residents that on November 1, 2022, its residential wood smoke reduction program begins. Before lighting your wood burning fireplace, please be sure to check with the District to see if ambient conditions allow for it to occur. Otherwise, you may be surprised by a knock on your door by a friendly District air pollution control enforcement inspector.
Photo Credit: San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District
The annual program is in effect from November 1 until the end of the following February every year. Its purpose is to reduce the amount of harmful PM 2.5 particulate matter into the atmosphere from residential wood smoke. (PM 2.5 is particulate less than 2.5 microns in diameter.) Such particles are so small that they can reach deep into one's lungs and are difficult if not impossible for the lung's mucociliary system to remove.The program does not apply to natural gas burning, propane, or in areas where natural gas isn't available and wood burning is the only source available for heat.
For more information, please call 1-800-SMOGINFO (1-800-766-4463) or click this link:
Residential Wood Smoke Reduction Program
