ODNR reminds residents of spring outdoor burning restrictions

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry is urging Ohioans to follow the state’s outdoor burning regulations and take precautions if they plan to burn debris this spring. Ohio law states that most outdoor burning is prohibited in unincorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during March, April and May.

“Careless debris burning is the leading cause of spring wildfires in Ohio,” said Greg Guess, state wildfire supervisor with the ODNR Division of Forestry. “Following regulations and using safe practices helps reduce wildfire risk statewide.”

Ohio’s seasonal 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. outdoor debris burning restrictions run in the spring from March 1 through May 31 and do not supersede any additional burning restrictions from the Ohio State fire marshal, which may vary by county. Residents should check all state and local restrictions before starting a fire.

Burning is limited in the spring because of the abundance of dry grass, weeds and leaves on the ground. Gusty winds and low humidity can cause a seemingly safe fire to burn more intensely and escape control. If a fire does escape control, residents should contact the local fire department immediately. An escaped wildfire, even one burning in grass or weeds, can be dangerous.

The ODNR Division of Forestry recommends several safety practices when burning debris outdoors. Residents should know current and forecast weather conditions, have tools and water on hand and never leave a debris burn unattended. People also should be informed about state and local burning regulations and consult their local fire department for additional information and safety considerations.

Officials also recommend considering safe alternatives for debris disposal such as composting. If burning during unrestricted hours, residents are encouraged to use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator.

More information about fire safety and wildfire prevention is available through the ODNR Fire Management Program and at Firewise.org.

Residents should also review open burning regulations from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency before starting an outdoor fire and consult local fire officials about burning conditions in their area. Debris burn piles must be located at least 1,000 feet from a neighbor’s inhabited building. Food waste, dead animals and materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt or petroleum should never be burned. Violators of Ohio’s burning regulations may be subject to citations and fines.

Officials also remind residents of Smokey Bear’s message: “Only you can prevent wildfires.”