Fall burning restrictions take effect Oct. 1 in Ohio

Fall burning regulations will take effect Wednesday, Oct. 1, and with dry conditions across the state, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry and the Ohio State Fire Marshal are urging Ohioans to use caution and follow state rules if planning to burn debris.

State law prohibits outdoor burning in unincorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during October and November. Officials said drought conditions across much of Ohio are creating an elevated risk of wildfires.

“Every year, wildfires start in Ohio because residents carelessly burn trash and debris,” said Dan Balser, chief of the ODNR Division of Forestry. “We want to remind Ohioans that wildfires do happen in this state and can be avoided by using safe burning practices and adhering to existing regulations.”

The risk of wildfires rises in the fall due to dry grass, weeds and leaves. Low humidity and gusty winds can cause fires to intensify and escape control. If a fire does escape, residents should contact their local fire department immediately.

Prevention tips

Officials encourage residents to take extra steps to prevent wildfires:

— Avoid burning trash and debris.

— Keep grass trimmed.

— Do not discard cigarettes or smoking materials outside.

— Postpone fireworks.

— Avoid open cooking fires and campfires.

— Farmers should inspect equipment regularly for fire hazards.

Safety guidelines for outdoor burning

If you must burn debris outdoors, ODNR recommends:

— Check current and future weather conditions.

— Have tools and water on hand.

— Never leave a fire unattended.

— Follow state and local burning regulations.

— Consult your local fire department for additional safety advice.

— Consider alternatives such as composting.

— If burning during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid.

Residents should also review Ohio Environmental Protection Agency regulations before burning. Food waste, dead animals, and materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt or petroleum should never be burned. Violators of Ohio’s burning rules can face citations and fines.

More information is available at the Ohio Division of Forestry website and Firewise.org.