Open Burning

Open burning is unhealthy and illegal and can even lead to fines for private citizens.  Open burning produces unhealthy air pollution, which is especially detrimental to children and to anyone with breathing difficulties.  The microscopic particles and gases released can aggravate asthma, heart conditions, and allergies.  In addition to these adverse health effects, the smoke and smell from open burning are unpleasant, and the unattractive burn piles contribute to urban decay and reduce property values.

The Ohio EPA has regulations prohibiting most open burning.   In populated areas, it is not legal to burn leaves, branches, tree trimmings, and other yard waste.  Burning of residential and other types of waste is also prohibited.  Citizen and fire department reports of open burning will be investigated by the Air Pollution Control Division.  The Ohio EPA does have the authority to levy fines against private citizens for up to $250 per day for each individual violation.  

EPA Open Burning Forms

The Ohio EPA Open Burning Request Form is to be used for:

1. Land clearing;
2. Recognized horticultural, range management or wildlife management practices;
3. Fires and/or pyrotechnics as part of film-making or video production;
4. Prevention or control of disease or pests;
5. Disposal of ignitable or explosive materials; and
6. Instruction for methods of fire fighting or for research in the control of fire.

The Ohio EPA Recommended Open Burning Notification Form is to be used for:

1. Prevention or control of disease or pests, with written or verbal verification to the Ohio EPA from the local health department, cooperative extension service, Ohio Department of Agriculture, or U.S. department of agriculture, that open burning is the only appropriate disposal method;
2. Bonfires or campfires used for ceremonial purposes; and
3. Disposal of agricultural waste generated on the premises.