Frequently Asked Questions

Open burning is defined as, the burning of unwanted materials such as paper, trees, brush, leaves, grass, and other debris where smoke and other emissions are released directly into the air. During open burning, air pollutants do not pass through a chimney or stack. Although defined as such, under no circumstances is any debris besides wood permitted.

Only clean wood (lacking creosote or other chemicals) can be used as fuel. That means no leaves or other unwanted combustibles.

A fire pit. The fire pit must be completely enclosed. This can be achieved by using screening or other approved store-bought containers.

The open burn must be a minimum of 25 feet from any structure or property line. The site must also be a minimum of 15 feet from any other combustible materials such as tall vegetation or woodpiles.

The fire should be no larger than three feet wide by three feet tall.

Some form of extinguishment must be on-hand. Examples would be dirt, sand, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher.

If smoke from the fire becomes a nuisance to others, extinguishment is required.

Constant supervision is required during all burning. Complete extinguishment is required before leaving the fire pit.