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Burning wood on ‘mandatory action’ days could be costly

Posted at 10:20 PM, Dec 17, 2013
and last updated 2013-12-18 00:20:28-05

SALT LAKE CITY -- The Utah Department of Environmental Quality's WoodBurn control program is designed to control wood smoke emission between November 1 and March 1.

On "Unrestricted Action" days, wood and coal burning stoves or fireplaces may be used.

On "Voluntary Action" days, residents are asked not to burn wood or coal, but the choice is voluntary.

On "Mandatory Action" days, wood and coal burning stoves must not be used.

Those who ignore the "Mandatory Action" forecast could be fined up to $300.

FOX 13's Todd Tanner went on a ridealong with the DEQ's Rik Ombach, who patrols neighborhoods in search of smoking chimneys. Watch the video above to see what happens.

To check the air quality forecast in your area, visit http://www.airquality.utah.gov/aqp/forecast.php

or download the "UtahAir" app on your smartphone or tablet.