Maricopa County officials have declared A “No Burn Day” over Christmas weekend due to a high pollution advisory for soot.

Over the last few days, the valley’s air quality has been poor. In an effort to improve the conditions, the following mandatory restrictions are in effect during the HPA from Friday, December 23, to Sunday, December 25

• Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimineas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires (including hotels and restaurants and individuals/businesses that have permits for open burning) is prohibited.
• Use of leaf blowers on governmental properties is prohibited.
• Use of off-road vehicles is prohibited.

It is recommended that children, elderly and people with heart and/or lung disease reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion during the heavy pollution advisory time period.