Canterbury Regional Council is relaxing its clean air rules because it says making sure houses are warm this winter is more important.
While cleaner air remains a priority, the council says the last thing people need to worry about following the earthquake is whether their home heating complies with the rules.
The council will still address complaints about smoky chimneys, but it will judge them on merit.
Residents are also advised to check their heating system before using it.
Clean air rules apply from 1 April until September and all year round in Kaiapoi.
