FAIRBANKS -- A proposed new rule in Fairbanks would fine people at least $300 for using wood- and-coal-fired stoves that belch out dense smoke, part of an attempt to curb air pollution in the area.

The Fairbanks News-Miner reports that Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Luke Hopkins is sponsoring the measure, which is a response to federal pressure to bring down pollution levels.

The federal government notified the borough that levels of a fine particulate matter known as PM 2.5 must be brought down by 2014 and that the primary contributors of this particle are wood stoves. PM 2.5 has been linked to health problems.

The measure will now be considered by the borough assembly. The new rule also includes subsidies and tax breaks for people who make improvements for better air quality. The proposal was posted on the borough's Web site Friday. The mayor could not be reached for comment.

"The big thing is just getting people to burn their stoves as efficiently as possible," said Nathan Sapp, a floor manager at The Woodway, a local store that holds free weekly classes on proper wood-burning techniques.

If approved, the new chimney regulations would take effect Sept. 1, 2011. The new rule would affect about 83,000 residents.

The measure also obliges sellers to educate customers on emissions regulating, or face a $1,000 fine.

"People are demanding help in dealing with this community problem," said air quality director Glenn Miller. He said that the borough and city of Fairbanks have received numerous complaints about bad air in recent months.

Under the proposal, only solid fuel burning devices approved by the borough or the Environmental Protection Agency can be installed. Already-installed systems would be grandfathered in.