Opacity Limits

State law prohibits the generation of excessive chimney smoke. Except for brief periods during start-up and refueling, smoke is in violation when it obscures objects viewed through it by more than 20%.

Pictured above is what smoke looks like at densities of 20%, 40% & 80%.

Generation of smoke densities greater than 20% could result in fines from air pollution control officials. Stoves operated with dry wood and a generous air supply produce less smoke and more heat.