Wood stoves & other home heating

Washington has rules about using, installing, and selling wood stoves and other wood-burning devices, as well as the smoke they create. Before you burn wood for heat, check for a burn ban.

How to operate your wood stove more efficiently (video).  An air quality burn ban is usually called during colder months when air pollution from wood smoke gets unhealthy. This kind of burn ban does not apply to homes with no other source of heat.

Washington regulates the types of wood stoves and other wood-burning devices allowed for sale, resale, exchange, or that are given away. These devices must meet both Washington and EPA certification and labeling standards. For a device to be certified, it must meet the most protective emission performance standards that apply under state and federal law.

Wood smoke is one of the main sources of air pollution in Washington. Wood stoves, fireplaces, and other wood-burning devices put out hundreds of times more air pollution than other sources of heat, such as natural gas or electricity. A person who uses wood for heat is at greater risk for respiratory illness. Learn more about how wood smoke harms your health.

Choosing a wood stove

  • Use a stove that is certified in Washington, the right size for your home, and properly installed.
  • Never install a non-certified wood stove.

Frequently asked questions