Woodburning   

Burning wood in fireplaces and wood stoves, as well as burning leaves, trash or other materials, contribute significantly to particulate matter (PM), specifically PM-2.5. During the winter holidays, the greater Phoenix area historically experiences extremely high levels of PM-2.5 primarily due to woodburning fires.

The Maricopa County Air Quality Department regulates the use of woodburning in residential fireplaces, woodstoves and outdoor burning devices during periods of high particulate matter or (dust) pollution. Woodburning is regulated when pollution levels rise because the process of burning wood can produce fine particulate matter that can be harmful to your lungs. It can also produce carbon monoxide and other toxins that can harm your health.

The county's air pollution is monitored by several air quality monitors located in and around Maricopa County. When conditions arise, state forecasters issue a high pollution advisory [HPA]. Once that happens, the Air Quality Department Director will issue a mandatory No Burn Day restriction prohibiting all fireplace, woodstove and outdoor burning devices. This includes the use of manufactured logs.

No Burn Day (woodburning) restrictions are typically issued during a HPA. Restrictions last for a 24-hour period starting at midnight the day the HPA is issued.

Maricopa County’s Residential Woodburning Restriction Ordinance (P-26)