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1. Is "Open Burning" permitted in Liberty Township?

As long as the following safety precautions are met, it is permitted.

• The location of the open burning is greater than 50 feet from any structure and provisions are made to prevent fire from spreading within 50 feet of any structure. These fires are defined as "bonfires". 
• Exceptions to burn within 50 feet of a structure are for fires defined as "recreational fires". A recreational fire is an outdoor fire that is burning seasoned wood (not rubbish) and has a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. A recreational open burn is permitted 15 feet from a structure if it is in an approved container. A recreational open burn that is not in an approved container is permitted 25 feet from a structure or combustible material, as long as provisions are made to prevent fire from spreading within 25 feet of any structure or combustible material.

Extinguishment

Any approved open burning may be required to be extinguished if:

• The open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation.
• Any of the stipulations allowing for open burning are not met. 
• The open burn is left unattended at any time.
• One of the following is not available to immediately extinguish the fire: 1.) Portable fire extinguisher complying with OAC (Ohio Administrative Code) with a minimum rating of 4-A, 2.) Pile of dirt or sand sufficient enough to completely extinguish the fire, and 3.) Water source with sufficient volume to completely extinguish the fire.

2. Do I have to notify the fire department or Ohio EPA if I will be burning?

No, as long as the fire is for recreation as defined in the Ohio Fire Code and EPA regulations and does not violate those rules.

3. Does the Ohio Fire Code have different rules than the EPA?

Yes, the EPA is very stringent on certain materials that are allowed to be burned and in what manner in which they are burnt. Click here for detailed information about burning any material that is not referenced under the recreational burn permission.

4. What can happen to me if I am caught illegally open burning?

The Ohio EPA has the legal authority to enforce the open burning laws. Violations can result in substantial penalties. If you have any questions or would like to report a suspected opening burning incident, contact your local Ohio EPA district office or your local air pollution control agency. 

Southwest District Office of the Ohio EPA (SWDO)
937-285-6357

Air Quality Programs Pollution Control Agency
513-651-9437

For a complete copy of Ohio's opening burning regulations, contact:
Division of Air Pollution Control Ohio EPA
P.O. Box 1049
Columbus, OH 43216-1049
614-644-2270

5. Are there restrictions on certain dates and times for opening burning in Ohio?

Yes. Currently, the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) states that the State Fire Marshal restricts burning within the state during the months of March, April, May, October and November between the hours of 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. This applies to all outdoor fires.

O.R.C.1503.18 is under the authority of the Ohio Division of Forestry. This law prohibits outdoor opening burning statewide in unincorporated areas during the months of March, April, May, October and November between the hours of 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. This ban includes burning of yard waste, trash and debris, even in a proper burn barrel. During spring, wildfire danger is high before plants have turned green, and in the fall, danger is high due to abundant dry leaves and dead grass. Warm, windy weather in both seasons also contributes to elevated risk. Always be sure to use a proper burn barren when burning outdoors during legal hours.