FULTON COUNTY, OH — The Fulton County Fire Departments are in cooperation with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Ohio DNR) regarding the Ohio Burn Ban and Open Burning Regulations within Fulton County. Protect yourself, your neighbors, and your wallet by knowing what you can burn and where.
Why is open burning a problem?
Open burning can release many kinds of toxic fumes. Leaves and plant materials send aloft millions of spores when they catch fire, causing many people with allergies to have difficulty breathing.
The pollutants released by open burning also make it more difficult to meet health-based air quality standards, especially in or near large cities.
The gases released by open burning can also corrode metal siding and damage paint on buildings.
Open burning is any set outdoor fire that does not vent to a chimney or stack.
Ohio Burn Ban and Open Burning Regulations
Ohio Revised Code 1503.18 prohibits most open burning in unincorporated areas in March, April, May, October, and November between 6am and 6pm. (Known as the Ohio Burn Ban) Open burning during these times may be permissible if conditions outlined in the exclusionary text are met.
This code is under authority of the Ohio Division of Forestry.
The Ohio EPA has authority regarding open burning under Ohio Administrative Code. Check Ohio EPA website for details.
Local governments or fire departments may have local burn rules established. It is good practice to check with these local entities prior to conducting open burns.
Individuals may be held liable for damages caused as a result of a fire that they kindle. Consider disposing of yard waste through alternative methods, such as composting.
The following forms should be used to provide notification of, or request permission for, your fire if required (See the Ohio EPA website or contact your local Fulton County Fire Department for assistance in obtaining these required forms):
Notification Form – Notification Form for fires for recognized horticultural, silvicultural (forestry), range management, prairie and grassland management, invasive species management, or wildlife management practices .
Request Permission to Conduct Open Burning – Burning any structure (for example, a house, garage or barn) also needs an Ohio EPA Notification of Demolition and Renovation/Abatement form.
Does Ohio EPA ever allow exceptions to the rules? Under certain circumstances, yes. However, to burn a prohibited material or set a fire in a restricted area, you must receive written permission from Ohio EPA before you begin burning. This may take two weeks.
Can a community regulate open burning?
Yes. However, local ordinances cannot be less strict than the state law.
What happens if I’m caught open burning illegally?
Ohio EPA has the authority to enforce the state’s open burning laws. Violations can result in substantial penalties.
If you have any questions, or would like to report a suspected open burning incident, contact Melissa Boyers, 419-373-3115.
The Fulton County Fire Chief’s are recommending the following for all residents: Complete the appropriate Ohio EPA Notification Form and wait for EPA direction; Call the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office & your Fire Department prior to fire ignition; If Fulton County Dispatch or the Fire Department receive a call regarding your ignited or smoldering fire, it will be responded to, investigated, and extinguished per the Ohio EPA directive.
Your fire department does not issue citations, but is obligated to take pictures and report your burn to the Ohio EPA and/or Ohio DNR as indicated.