SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5022

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: Outdoor wood boilers (OWBs) are free-standing wood burning devices that heat water, which is then pumped to one or more structures to provide heat. They resemble small sheds with short smokestacks. OWBs may be used to heat homes and buildings, produce domestic hot water, heat swimming pools or hot tubs, and provide heat for agricultural structures such as greenhouses and dairies. OWBs are not currently approved for use in Washington.

Summary of Bill: Outdoor wood-fired boilers (OWBs) may be installed and used in Washington, provided that they comply with certain requirements. An OWB must meet a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standard for outdoor wood-fired hydronic heaters, have a maximum emission level of 0.60 pounds of particle pollution per one million Btu heat input, be used outside urban growth areas as defined in the Growth Management Act, be at least 50 feet from the residence it is serving and at least 250 feet from the nearest residence or commercial establishment not located on the same property, and have a minimum chimney height of 15 feet (and higher if a residence within 500 feet has a lower roof level). An OWB owner or operator may only use clean dry wood, wood pellets made from clean wood, or fuels recommended by the manufacturer, and must follow manufacturer-recommended fuel loading times and amounts. The Department of Ecology must establish, by administrative rule, statewide emission performance standards for OWBs meeting the foregoing requirements.

In-state sale of new OWBs to state residents are prohibited unless OWBs meet the EPA standard and maximum emission level noted above. Violations are subject to Clean Air Act penalty provisions.