The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) designates November through February as check-before-you-burn season in an effort to limit fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions. PM2.5 is a combination of dust, soot, aerosols, vehicle emissions, wood burning smoke and other hazardous matter that can travel into the lungs when inhaled and cause heart and lung diseases. Children and infants are especially vulnerable to its effects.
When AQMD forecasters expect PM2.5 to reach levels that cause unhealthy air quality, the agency calls for a 24-hour ban on burning wood in fireplaces, stoves and outdoor fire pits. Gas fireplaces are exempt from AQMD’s no-burn day alerts.
The AQMD offers alert notifications and resources for no-burn days, including:
- An interactive map
- Email notifications
- Toll-free daily updates at 866-966-3293
- A mobile app
- Social media accounts Facebook, X and Instagram
Keep in mind that VMS, GRF and the mutuals do not enforce AQMD rules and are exempt from the AQMD requirements that prohibit the sale of wood-burning devices. The exemption applies to all indoor and outdoor wood-burning devices that are permanently installed and included in the sale or transfer of any existing development. Although the mutual is responsible for the infrastructure of existing wood-burning fireplaces, the use and compliance related to the AQMD rules is the responsibility of the member and occupant.
Remember to be mindful of the fire risk associated with wood-burning fireplace use and follow best practices for safe operation. Keep flammable items, such as curtains, furniture, newspaper and books, away from your fire-burning devices, and keep a fire extinguisher handy.
For more information, visit the AQMD website’s Check Before You Burn webpage.
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