Frequently Asked Questions on Burning

Q. What is Rural Residential burning?
A. Rural residential burning is the open burning of green waste materials by household residents. Backyard green waste burn piles include dry weeds, plant prunings, shrubbery, tree trimmings and branches. Burning of this material creates particulate matter and air pollution that can cause numerous health effects such as coughing, headaches or respiratory problems.

Q. What are the health effects of smoke from rural residential burning?
A. Exposure to high concentrations of smoke can cause numerous health effects especially to those who are vulnerable to air pollution such as children, the elderly and people with compromised respiratory systems. The particles from smoke may be trapped in the lungs or respiratory tract for long periods of time, which could lead to diseases of the lung including emphysema and cancer.

Q. What about the use of BBQ's or recreational fire pit?
A. The burning of wood materials in barbecues and recreational fire pits can impact air quality. Since the amount of material burned in these types of fires is typically much smaller than the amount burned in a backyard burn pile, the emissions are much smaller as well. Therefore, the potential for nuisance and health concerns from BBQs and recreational fires as compared to a Rural Residential burn is greatly reduced.

Q. Why limit open burning?
A. To further protect public health, especially vulnerable individuals such as children & the elderly who typically have more sensitive respiratory systems.
A. To reduce emissions of toxic air contaminants, greenhouse gases, and ozone forming pollutants.
A. To reduce the number of nuisance complaints.
A. To improve visibility and maintain a beautiful environment for all to enjoy.

Q. What do I need to do in order to conduct a residential burn?
A. 1) Check with your local fire district to be sure residential burning is allowed. Some district prohibit/restrict residential burning or require a local fire district permit.
2) Contact your local county dispatch center to determine if it is a burn day. The dispatch center will request any necessary information.
3) Conduct and complete your burn by 5 p.m. or an hour before sunset, which ever is earlier, in a manner to minimize smoke and impacts on your neighbors.