"Today is the first day of our fourth "Check Before You Burn" season. The "Check Before You Burn" program is in effect in all of Sacramento County including its incorporated cities."
Lori Kobza is with the Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District. The mandatory no-burn rule only takes effect when air quality is forecast to be unhealthy. Anyone caught burning wood on those days will be subject to a 50-dollar fine. The annual program started in 2007.
"Folks have embraced it, understood its meaning. That's not to say everybody likes it but they understand that it's there and its purpose. And we are looking forward to another good season with participation."
"Check Before You Burn" is designed to help local air quality officials meet federal emission standards. It'll be in effect through February 28th.
By the way…today is forecast to be a healthy day…so wood burning is allowed.