Wood-burning fires banned in metro Phoenix on Monday

PHOENIX - People in metro Phoenix are barred from using wood-burning fireplaces on New Year's Day.

Environmental regulators have called the no-burn days in Maricopa County for Monday because air pollution levels are expected to exceed federal health standards.

The ban applies to burning-wood in fireplaces and outdoor fire pits, though gas and electric heaters are allowed.

Those who violate the rules risk being ticketed.

Regulators say illegal wood-burning carries real-life consequences.

Smoke and soot from wood-burning pose risks to people with asthma and other respiratory ailments.

The county could face fines, loss of federal funding and tougher regulations if found to have violated federal standards.

Sustained winds and rain could break up the pollution, but no such weather is in the forecast for metro Phoenix.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.