Stage 2 ban means no burning through Monday

The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency has announced a Stage 2 burn ban for the most populous areas of Spokane County. The ban means all burning, even in certified stoves, is prohibited unless alternate heat sources are inadequate and an exemption has been obtained from the clean air agency. The ban applies to all solid fuels – including wood, manufactured fire logs and pellets – within the Smoke Control Zone, which includes the cities of Spokane, Spokane Valley and Liberty Lake. The Stage 2 ban is expected to be in effect at least through Monday, the agency said. Low air quality because of an extended period of stagnant air prompted the ban.