COLUMBUS, Ohio– The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry is urging Ohioans to follow the state’s outdoor burning regulations and to take precautions if they plan to burn debris this spring. Ohio law dictates that most outdoor burning is prohibited in unincorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. March through May.
 
“Each spring, wildfires ignite in Ohio due to careless trash and debris burning,” said ODNR Division of Forestry Chief Dan Balser. “If Ohioans follow safe burning practices and obey regulations, they can help prevent wildfires.”
 
Ohio’s seasonal 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. outdoor debris burning restrictions run in the spring from Saturday, March 1st through Saturday, May 31st. The restriction, which is detailed in Ohio Revised Code 1503.18, applies to open burning in unincorporated areas. Incorporated areas like cities and villages may have different restrictions, and additional temporary restrictions may be issued if wildfire danger becomes extremely elevated. Be sure to check all state and local restrictions before kindling a fire.

If you choose to burn during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator.

Burning is limited in the spring due to the abundance of dry grass, weeds, and leaves on the ground. Gusty winds and low humidity can make a seemingly safe fire burn more intensely and escape control. If a fire does escape control, contact the local fire department immediately. An escaped wildfire, even one burning in grass or weeds, is dangerous.
 
The ODNR Division of Forestry offers these safety tips for burning debris outdoors:

• Know current and future weather conditions
• Have tools and water on hand
• Never leave a debris burn unattended
• Be informed about state and local burning regulations
• Consult the local fire department for additional information and safety considerations
• Visit the ODNR Division of Forestry’s website and www.Firewise.org for more information and tips on protecting your home and community
• Consider safe alternatives for debris disposal, such as composting
• If you choose to burn during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator

Remember: “Only you can prevent wildfires!”

Residents should also check the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s open burn regulations prior to any outdoor fire and consult with local fire officials about burning conditions in the area. Food waste, dead animals and materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt or petroleum should never be burned. Violators of Ohio’s burning regulations are subject to citations and fines.