State reminds landowners of outdoor-burning rules

3/28/2005

COLUMBUS Two state agencies are urging residents to use safety precautions and be aware of state laws before burning debris outdoors this spring.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry prohibits outdoor burning in rural areas between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in March, April, May, October, and November.

Landowners in areas within 1,000 feet of a municipality or within a mile of a community of more than 10,000 people may burn outdoors only for cooking and some occupational needs, according to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Outside such areas, burning of certain types of waste is permitted under specific requirements, including that it be at least 1,000 feet from all inhabited buildings on neighboring properties.

ODNR recommends those planning a burn clear the site of all flammable materials; use a proper burning container; clear a 10-foot area around the site, and have water and hand tools ready in case the fire escapes the zone. Residents should not burn within 200 feet of any areas of brush or grass or on windy days.