Open burning in Ohio
Two sets of rules apply to outdoor burning in Circleville Township: the Ohio Revised Code kindled fire law, enforced by the ODNR Division of Forestry, and the Ohio Administrative Code open burning rules, enforced by the Ohio EPA.
Ohio Revised Code 1503.18 — kindled fires
Outdoor open burning is prohibited statewide in unincorporated areas during March, April, May, October and November, between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
This ban includes burning of yard waste, trash and debris — even in a proper burn barrel.
During the spring, wildfire danger is high before plants have turned green; in fall, fire danger is high due to abundant dry leaves and dead grass. Warm, windy weather in both seasons also contributes to elevated fire risk. Always use a proper burn barrel when burning outdoors during legal hours, and call your fire department for information about local burning regulations.
ORC 1503.18 is under the authority of the ODNR Division of Forestry. Call 877-247-8733 with questions.
Ohio Administrative Code 3745.19 — outdoor burning
OAC 3745.19 is enforced by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. EPA permission is required for many types of open burns in Ohio.
Call 614-644-2270 with questions, or visit the Ohio EPA open burning page for complete rules and to find your local EPA office or air pollution control agency.
Never burn these — anywhere, any time
- Food waste
- Dead animals
- Materials containing rubber, grease or asphalt, or made from petroleum
Other restrictions
- Fires must be more than 1,000 feet from a neighbor's inhabited building.
- No burning when an air pollution alert, warning or emergency is in effect.
- Fire and smoke cannot obscure visibility on roadways, railways or airfields.
- No waste generated off the premises may be burned.
- Other rules may apply for burning within village or city limits, or in restricted areas.
Obey open burning laws. Avoid citation. Be safe.
Source: Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, and Ohio EPA.
