How are the criteria used to determine a no burn day?

Mountain Counties & Lake Tahoe Air Basin

  • A no burn day is declared for the following day if the 500-millibar heights are forecasted to be greater than or equal to the specified 500-millibar height criteria listed in Title 17.
  • A no burn day may be declared if there are significant smoke or ozone impacts.
  • Air Resources Board Meteorologists may also declare a no burn day if he/she establishes other factors that are not conducive to burning.

Sacramento Valley Air Basin

  • The stability of the atmosphere is determined by comparing minimum morning surface temperatures to temperatures aloft.
  • Temperatures aloft are measured by daily aircraft soundings.
  • Morning stability is calculated from the 3,000 foot temperature minus minimum surface temperature.
  • Pollutant levels are also a factor in determining a no burn day. Particulate measurements are gathered throughout the Sacramento Valley.
  • If the stability of the atmosphere is greater than 17° Fahrenheit and particulate measurements are elevated, a no burn day is declared.
  • A no burn day may also be declared if ozone concentrations are forecasted to be unhealthy.

Show All Answers

1. How are burn days decided?
2. What are the specific Title 17 criteria used?
3. How are the criteria used to determine a no burn day?
4. Why are rainy days generally burn days?
5. When can I burn?