OHIO — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry is helping to educate Ohioans on the state's outdoor burning regulations and precautions they should take. 

What You Need To Know

  • According to Ohio law, burning is prohibited in incorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout October and November

  • The reason for the restriction is because of the amount of dry grass, weeds and leaves on the ground that can catch fire

  • ODNR added that burning food waste, dead animals and materials containing rubber, asphalt, grease and petroleum can't be burned

According to Ohio law, burning is prohibited in incorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. throughout October and November. The reason for the restriction is because of the amount of dry grass, weeds and leaves on the ground, ODNR said. When mixed with low humidity and gusty winds, it can cause the fire to become out of control. 

“Wildfires occur every fall in Ohio due to the careless burning of trash and debris,” ODNR Division of Forestry Assistant Chief Greg Guess said. “This can be avoided by using safe burning practices and adhering to existing regulations.”

ODNR offered these safety tips for burning outdoors:

  • Learn the local and state burning regulations
  • Check the weather currently and for the future
  • Have tools and water on hand
  • Never leave a debris burn unattended
  • Consider other alternatives to debris burning, such as composting
  • For additional safety considerations, contact the local fire department
  • Visit the Ohio Division of Forestry’s website and Firewise.org for more information and tips

ODNR added that burning food waste, dead animals and materials containing rubber, asphalt, grease and petroleum can't be burned. All violators are budget to fines and citations. 

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