Burn Policy

Ordinance 105.05 Open Burning Restricted. No person shall allow, cause or permit open burning of combustible materials where the products of combustion are emitted into the open air without passing through a chimney or stack, except that open burning is permitted in the following circumstances:

1. Disaster Rubbish. The open burning of rubbish, including landscape waste, for the duration of the community disaster period in cases where an officially declared emergency condition exists.

2. Trees and Tree Trimmings. The open burning of trees and tree trimmings at a City-operated burning is conducted in compliance with the rules established by the State Department of Natural Resources.

3. Landscape Waste. The Disposal by open burning of landscape waste originating on the premises. However, the burning of landscape waste produced in clearing, grubbing and construction operations shall be limited to areas located at least one-fourth (1/4) mile from any building inhabited by other than the landowner or tenant conducting the open burning. Rubber tires shall not be used to ignite landscape waste.

4. Recreational Fires. Open fires for cooking, heating, recreation and ceremonies, provided they comply with the limits for emission of visible air contaminants established by the State Department of Natural Resources.

5. Training Fires. Fires set for purpose of bona fide training of public or industrial employees in fire fighting methods, provided that the training fires are in compliance with the rules established by the State Department of Natural Resources.

6. Pesticide Containers and Seed Corn Bags. Paper or plastic pesticide containers and seed corn bags resulting from farming activities occurring on the premises if burned in accordance with the rules established by the State Department of Natural Resources.

7. Agricultural Structures. The open burning of agricultural structures if in accordance with the rules and limitations of the State Department of Natural Resources.

8. Variance. Any person wishing to conduct open burning of materials not permitted herein may make application for a variance to the Director.