This winter will bring new rules for using fireplaces in the San Joaquin Valley from Stockton to Bakersfield. Some areas will see the number of "no burn" days double.
The San Joaquin Valley has until 2019 to meet federal standards for improving air quality in the winter.
New rules will go into effect in November through the end of February to reduce pollution caused by wood burning.
Jaime Holt with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District says 95 percent of the pollution caused by smoke comes from wood burning fireplaces.
"Someone has an open hearth fireplace they'll actually see fewer days that they will be able to burn. They'll actually see the number double, might go from 25 to 50 days they will not be able to burn."
Holt says this year people with EPA approved stoves, inserts, or gas fireplaces will be able to burn every day.
She says special grants from $1,500 to $3,000 are available through the district to purchase stoves or convert fireplaces to gas.
People who have no access to natural gas are exempt from the no-burn days.
CapRadio provides a trusted source of news because of you. As a nonprofit organization, donations from people like you sustain the journalism that allows us to discover stories that are important to our audience. If you believe in what we do and support our mission, please donate today.
