Due to anticipated high air pollution levels, regulators have extended the ban on indoor and outdoor wood burning in much of the Southland. The residential wood-burning prohibition will remain in effect until at least 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday for areas within the South Coast Air Basin, encompassing non-desert regions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, as well as the entirety of Orange County.
Exceptions to the ban include mountain communities above 3,000 feet, the Coachella Valley, and the high desert, as specified by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Additionally, homes relying on wood as their sole heat source, low-income households, and those without natural gas service are exempt.
Residents in the affected areas are reminded that burning wood in fireplaces or any indoor/outdoor wood-burning device, including manufactured fire logs made from wax or paper, is strictly prohibited. This measure aims to address the health risks associated with fine particles in wood smoke, known as particulate matter or PM2.5, which can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma.
For no-burn day notifications, residents can sign up for Air Alerts via email or text at www.AirAlerts.org. Stay informed and contribute to a healthier air quality environment in your community.
