October 1, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources: COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry is urging Ohioans to follow the state’s outdoor burning regulations and to take precautions if they plan to burn debris this fall. Ohio law dictates that most outdoor burning is prohibited in unincorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during October and November.
“Wildfires occur every fall in Ohio due to the careless burning of trash and debris,” said ODNR Division of Forestry Assistant Chief Greg Guess. “This can be avoided by using safe burning practices and adhering to existing regulations.”
ODNR urges Ohioans to follow all rules and regulations regarding burning during the fall season.
Ohio’s seasonal 6 a.m.-6 p.m. outdoor debris burning restrictions run in the fall from Oct. 1 through Nov. 30 and do not supersede the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s current burning restrictions, which may vary county by county. Be sure to check all state and local restrictions before kindling a fire, especially due to the excessive drought conditions that are occurring in many areas of Ohio this fall.
Burning is limited in the fall due to the abundance of dry grass, weeds, and leaves on the ground. Gusty winds and low humidity can make a seemingly safe fire burn more intensely and escape control. If a fire does escape control, contact the local fire department immediately. An escaped wildfire, even one burning in grass or weeds, is dangerous.
Burn barrel specifications.
The ODNR Division of Forestry offers these safety tips for burning debris outdoors:
- Know current and future weather conditions
- Have tools and water on hand,
- Never leave a debris burn unattended
- Be informed about state and local burning regulations
- Consult the local fire department for additional information and safety considerations
- Visit the Ohio Division of Forestry’s website and Firewise.org for more information and tips on protecting your home and community
- Consider safe alternatives for debris disposal, such as composting
- If you choose to burn during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator
- Remember: “Only you can prevent wildfires!”
Residents should also check the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s open burn regulations prior to any outdoor fire and consult with local fire officials about burning conditions in the area. Food waste, dead animals, and materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt, or petroleum should never be burned. Violators of Ohio’s burning regulations are subject to citations and fines.
The Ohio Division of Forestry promotes the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov. Follow us on Facebook and on Instagram @odnrforestry.
In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
