OPEN BURNING
Before You Light It - Know Ohio's Open Burning Regulations
What does the Ohio EPA consider open burning? Isn't it harmless?
Open burning is any set outdoor fire that does not vent to a chimney
or stack. Some studies indicate that even small camp fires burning
clean wood can emit harmful chemicals. Burning "unclean" materials can
be even more hazardous. For example, when you burn refuse in burn
barrels or open piles, the potential cost to your health, your home,
your neighbors and your environment far exceeds the price of adequate
collection services. Protect yourself, your neighbors and your wallet
by knowing what you can burn and where.
Is there anything I need to do before I burn outdoors?
There are some instances when Ohio EPA does not need to be notified
or provide approval of open burning activities. However, you may have
an obligation to notify or get permission from Ohio EPA before burning
materials outside depending on the materials burned, the location of
the burn, and the activity associated with the burn. Ohio EPA has
developed a notification form [DOC], [PDF]
that you can use to help make sure you are in compliance with legal
notification requirements. Ohio EPA has also developed a form for
requesting permission to conduct open burning [DOC], [PDF]
when permission is required by law. You will find more information
below about open burning, your responsibilities, and helpful information if you need guidance or clarifications of what the
requirements are in your area.
Why is open burning a problem?
Open burning can release many kinds of toxic fumes. Leaves and plant
materials send aloft millions of spores when they catch fire, causing
many people with allergies to have difficulty breathing. The pollutants
released by open burning also make it more difficult to meet
health-based air quality standards, especially in or near large cities.
The gases released by open burning can also corrode metal siding and
damage paint on buildings.
Health Concerns
Burning household waste produces many toxic chemicals and is one of
the largest known sources of dioxin in the nation. Other air pollutants
from open burning include particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, lead and
mercury. These pollutants have been linked to several health problems,
including asthma, respiratory illnesses, nervous system damage, kidney
and liver damage, and reproductive or developmental disorders.
Where is open burning allowed?
To see a general summary of areas where open burning is permitted, click here.
For more complete information, including special allowances for
firefighter training, disposal of certain ignitable or explosive
materials, and recognized horticultural, silvicultural, range, or
wildlife management practices please be sure to consult the open
burning regulations found in Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 3745-19.
What open burning is never allowed?
Under Ohio law, these materials may not be burned anywhere in the state at any time:
- garbage,any wastes created in the process of handling, preparing, cooking or consuming food;
- materials
containing rubber, grease and asphalt or made from petroleum, such as
tires, cars and auto parts, plastics or plastic- coated wire; and
- dead animals.
Other restrictions:
- Open burning is not allowed when air pollution warnings, alerts or emergencies are in effect.
- Fires cannot obscure visibility for roadways, railroad tracks or air fields
- No
wastes generated off the premises may be burned. For example, a tree
trimming contractor may not haul branches and limbs to another site to
burn.
Does Ohio EPA ever allow exceptions to the rules?
Under certain circumstances, yes. However, to burn a prohibited
material or set a fire in a restricted area, you must receive written
permission from Ohio EPA before you begin burning. This may take two
weeks.
Can a community regulate open burning?
Yes. However, local ordinances cannot be less strict than the state law.
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