Burning wood in fireplaces, chimneas or fire pits creates pollution that negatively affects our air quality.  It releases particulate matter and gases that contain sulphur and nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and cancer causing compounds. 

Residential wood burning makes up  11% of the airborne particulate matter (PM2.5) that we breathe in and 15% of the volatile organic compounds found in Ontario’s air.  Put these together add sunlight and the result is smog.

There are cleaner technologies and methods for residential wood burning.

Presently we are adding to this site but in the meantime here are some good resources on wood burning.

• City Of Hamilton Open Air Burning By-Law
• Environment Canada - Residential Wood Heating

Wood Heating Tips

Do's:

• Use a mix of different hardwoods and softwoods where possible.
• Burn only small pieces of, clean dry wood.
• Cut, split and stack your wood in the spring, cover it and let it dry over the summer for at least six months.
• Use a mix of different hardwoods and softwoods where possible.
• Make a small fire of crisscross pieces of wood in your firebox allowing maximum contact with the combustion air.
• Burn the fire hot and refuel more often with smaller loads. Keep the flame lively and bright.
• Keep your chimney clean. Frequently remove the ashes from your appliance. Dispose of them in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
• Stay informed about winter air quality forecast in your area.
• Keep your home well insulated to prevent heat loss and to increase energy efficiency.
• Consider replacing old inefficient wood burning appliances that don't comply with pollution standards. Buy heating appliances for your home that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
  

Don'ts:

• Burn garbage, plastics or glossy magazines.
• Burn painted, treated, green or wet wood.
• Store your wood where there is water or moisture.
• Fill a stove to more than half of its capacity.
• Let a fire smoulder overnight and don't dampen down your fire.
• Allow creosote to build up in your chimney.
• Use a classic fireplace to heat your home.
• Use your burning appliance when a Smog Warning is in effect in your area.