Politics & Government
Wood-burning Ban Returns Tuesday after a Day Off
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has again banned wood-burning – on New Year's Eve – with yet another "Spare the Air" alert because of unhealthy levels of pollution in the air.
By David Mills
After a one-day reprieve, the Bay Area's wood burning ban is returning.
A Winter Spare the Air alert has been issued for Tuesday.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District made the announcement at midday Monday, saying stagnant air in the region is trapping pollutants close the ground and causing unhealthy air.
It's the 23rd alert so far this winter season. Only 10 alerts were issued during the entire winter season last year.
No alert was issued for Monday. Before that, the air quality district had ordered the wood burning ban for seven consecutive days.
“Wood smoke pollution is again building up in the Bay Area,” said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the air district. “While these conditions are in place, we appreciate the public’s help in reducing air pollution by not burning wood.”
The Tuesday alert prohibits Bay Area residents from burning wood, manufactured fire logs or any other solid fuel both indoors and outdoors for 24 hours. Those with no other source of heat are exempt.
First-time violators of the ban are given the option of taking a wood smoke awareness class or paying a $100 fine. Second violations result in a $500 fine and the penalties rise with each violation after that.
The air quality district has 60 inspectors that follow up on complaints and issue citations.
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