It is recognized and found that wood smoke and smoke generated by other outdoor solid fuel (biofuel) heating devices is hazardous to an individual’s health and may affect the health of the general public when they are involuntarily exposed to the presence of smoke, and that breathing smoke is a significant health hazard particularly to children, elderly people, individuals with cardiovascular disease, and individuals with impaired respiratory functions. It is also recognized that biofuel burners are designed and intended to be a primary heat source, and therefore burn, and emit smoke on a continual basis. Furthermore, significant fire safety risks are involved with units that are not properly installed, or do not have proper safety equipment such as spark arrestors; or are installed in close proximity to other buildings. The purpose of this chapter is to protect the public health, safety, comfort, and general welfare of the citizens against the hazards posed by biofuel burners.
(Ord. 08-208, passed 2-11-2008)