The cord (not the pickup load} is the only
legal unit of measure for sales of firewood in California.
A cord (like other measurements such as a foot, a gallon,
or a ton) is defined by law. A cord equals 128 cubic feet
of ranked and well stowed wood, typically measuring 4'x4'x8'.
Cubic feet is obtained by multiplying the length times
the width times the height of the wood. Measurements taken
in inches can be converted into cubic feet by dividing
by 1,728.
When ordering wood, make sure it is sold
by the cord measure, not by the pickup load. Wood for
fuel purposes can only be sold of offered for sale by
cord measure, fraction of the cord, or percentage of the
cord.
Measure the wood when it is delivered or when you pick
it up. Make sure you are getting the correct amount before
you hand over any money. If you're not satisfied about
the amount, don't pay for it until you are and then, preferably
pay by check.
Make sure you get a bill of sale from the wood seller.
The seller is required to furnish the buyer with a bill
of sale giving the amount of wood purchased, the total
selling price, the seller's name and address, and the
date of sale or delivery.
How to measure a cord of firewood
A cord of wood is 128 cubic feet, well stowed and packed.
To determine how many cubic feet of wood you actually
have, use the following simplified method:
Any person who suspects they have been taken advantage
of, or who may have questions regarding firewood sales,
is asked to contact the Madera County Department of Weights
and Measures at 675-7876. If you think you were shorted
wood, DO NOT BURN any of the delivery until an
inspector has measured the load.
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Contacting Us  |
Madera County Department of Agriculture
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