Beaconsfield wood-burning restrictions take effect October 1

Beaconsfield’s next phase of wood-burning restrictions takes effect October 1, limiting the use of fireplaces and stoves that do not meet the city’s emissions standard.

Under the municipal rules page, accessed October 1, a compliant solid-fuel appliance must emit no more than 2.5 grams of fine particles per hour and be certified under an accepted EPA, CSA B415.1-10 or POLYTESTS standard.

Residents who declared a non-compliant appliance by September 30 may continue using it during a transition period ending September 30, 2027. An undeclared non-compliant unit may not be used after October 1, except during an electricity outage lasting more than three hours.

Wood burning is also prohibited during a smog warning, again with an exception for a prolonged power outage. The bylaw does not cover electric, propane or natural-gas units, outdoor cooking appliances, or decorative appliances that are no longer used.

Owners should check the certification plate or documentation for their appliance before using it. The city page also links to its declaration and replacement requirements.

Illustrative image: Stéphane Juban / Unsplash Licence. Cropped and resized; the fireplace shown is not identified as being in Beaconsfield.