Press release from the Allen County Board of Commissioners:
Allen County Officials Urge Common Sense When Lighting Up Piles
Remind residents about open-burning rules, regulations
(September 24, 2010) – It’s that time of year when residents in unincorporated areas of Allen County are getting their burn barrels and leaf piles ready. But the county’s Safety and Environmental Management Department wants to make sure those residents keep the garbage away and a hose nearby.
Many rural residents are beginning the legal burning of backyard debris on autumn days when weather is not a factor. While burning permits are not required in Allen County, there are procedures and limitations for burning yard trimmings, leaves and brush.
Under the county’s open-burning rules, burn piles must be at least 20 feet away from structures, roads or power lines. Burning is only permitted between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Burning must be done during safe weather conditions. Wind speeds should be less than 20 miles per hour and burning cannot take place during a pollution alert day. Only clean wood or untreated wood products, brush and leaves that originated from the property may be burned. The material must be burned in a noncombustible, ventilated container.
Keep water sources and a shovel on hand to control a burn if winds unexpectedly fan it into possible trouble. Local or state authorities can demand that any burning be stopped if the fire is determined to be a nuisance, pollution problem or threat to property or public health.
For those interested in disposing of their leaves in an environmentally-friendly manner, you can check out the Allen County Solid Waste Management District website (www.acwastewatcher.org) to get tips on how to compost your leaves.