Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) launched its daily burn code, telling Sparks, Spanish Springs and Sun Valley residents whether they can use a wood-burning fireplace or stove.

The color-coded system took effect Monday, Nov. 2, and runs through Feb. 28, 2027, according to an NNPH announcement. It covers residences from Washoe Valley north through Silver Knolls that have a fireplace, wood stove, pellet stove or other wood-burning device.

Here's how the codes break down:

  • Green: Wood burning allowed
  • Yellow: Wood burning discouraged
  • Red: Wood burning prohibited

District Health Officer Dr. Chad Kingsley said the burn code "has been around for nearly 40 years and has led to better air quality outcomes in Washoe County." He credited the AQMD team's work on air quality programs and asked residents to pay close attention to daily updates "to protect our community members who are vulnerable to poor air quality conditions."

Last winter was all green. NNPH said the burn code was in place for 120 days, and the agency did not issue a single yellow or red code during that stretch.

The last yellow code came on Dec. 20, 2024. The last red code was issued Dec. 29, 2017, according to NNPH.

Winter wood burning is a significant source of pollution in the Truckee Meadows. NNPH said wood burning in fireplaces and stoves accounts for about 40 percent of wintertime fine particulate matter in the region. Those emissions can enter the lungs and pass into the bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular health problems, the agency said.

During winter, smoke can become trapped in inversion layers for extended periods, according to NNPH. That makes the burn code especially important for protecting people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Households where a wood-burning device is the only source of heat can apply for an exemption through the Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) by calling 775-784-7200.

KOLO also reported on the burn code launch.

Residents can check the daily code at OurCleanAir.com or by calling 775-785-4110. NNPH also posts updates on its X, Facebook and Instagram accounts as conditions change.