Debris Burning

Debris burning is the number one cause of human-caused wildfires.

Large brush pile with smoke in the background

Debris burning is intentionally burning vegetative material in a pile or in a metal burn barrel. Escaped controlled burns also contribute to unsafe debris burning. Any instance of fire intentionally applied to the landscape should be conducted as a prescribed fire by fire and fuel specialists.  

County burn bans may reduce unsafe debris burning but a burn ban doesn’t have to be in effect for outdoor burning to be illegal or unsafe.  

Negligently allowing your fire to escape onto someone else’s property is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500. Learn before you burn. 

Before debris burning

  • Check for and follow local bans on outdoor burning.
  • Search outdoor burning information for your area. Many cities and counties have restrictions or guidelines on what can be burned, do not allow burning within city limits, require a permit, and other policies.  
  • Ask your local officials if a community burn site is available. Community burn piles are prepared and monitored by the city, often with support from local fire departments.   
  • Avoid any outdoor burning if it is hot, dry, or windy.   
  • Check if weather changes are expected before igniting. Postpone if shifts in wind direction, high winds, or wind gust are in the forecast.  

Debris burning area preparation

  • Before starting the burn, establish a wide control line around the burn that is down to the bare mineral soil. It should be at least 10 feet around the burn pile or barrel.  
  • Avoid burning under overhead obstructions such as trees, powerlines, and structures.   
  • Keep burn piles small and manageable. No more than four feet wide is best.  
  • If using a burn barrel, ensure it is a metal barrel in good condition, without any rust holes. Have three evenly spaced vents in the side of the barrel near the bottom and back them with a metal mesh screen to allow for air flow and better consumption of materials. Place a metal screen on the top of the barrel with holes no larger than 5/8 inches to reduce embers from escaping.   

During debris burning

  • Do NOT attempt to burn aerosol cans. They can explode when heated and lead to flying materials causing injuries and potentially igniting nearby vegetation.   
  • Never leave the burn pile or burn barrel unattended. Stay with it at all times until it is completely extinguished.   
  • Keep a steady water source and hand tools nearby in case the fire attempts to spread outside your containment line.   
  • When possible, choose alternatives to burning.   
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