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Community Corner

Georgia Burn Ban Goes into Effect May 1

The ban prohibits all outdoor burning beginning May 1 until September 30.

Georgia's "burn ban" goes into effect on Wednesday, May 1.

The ban, in place because of dry conditions and environmental health regulations, is issued by the Division and covers 54 counties, including Fulton County. During the summer months in Georgia, the ozone in the air can reach unhealthy levels. Open burning has been identified as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone. Therefore, open burning in metro Atlanta and the surrounding areas is restricted during this time.

The ban prohibits all outdoor burning in Fulton County until September 30, which includes the burning lof eaves, tree limbs, other yard waste or land clearing debris. The Fulton County Fire Rescue Department is responsible for the enforcement of this state-issued burning ban in unincorporated Fulton County. Enforcement will include extinguishing all unauthorized outdoor fires and/or issuing citations.

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Recreation and cooking fires, including outdoor fireplaces and other types of fire pits are allowed if constructed and located properly, and campfires in approved areas. If in doubt, contact 1-877-OK-2-BURN or visit the Georgia Forestry Commission website.

As an alternative to burning, debris can be hauled to a commercial processing/grinding/composting operation or to an inert or construction and demolition landfill. Call EPD’s Solid Waste Management Program at 404-362-2692 for the closest landfill.

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