The Brookfield Fire Department is reminding Ohioans of a statewide burn ban taking place throughout October and November between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

According to Ohio Revised Code 1503.18, outdoor open burning in unincorporated areas is prohibited during the months of March, April, May, October and November between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. 

This is because during the spring, wildfire danger is high before plants have turned green, and during the fall, fire danger is higher due to dead leaves and dead grass. Warm, windy weather during both seasons also contributes to elevated fire risk.

The ban prohibits burning of yard waste, trash and debris, even in a proper burn barrel during restricted hours. 

During non-restricted months and hours, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notification is required for many types of open burns in Ohio. The following are materials that are never permitted to be burned in Ohio according to the EPA:

-Food Waste

-Dead animals

-Materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt or made from petroleum

Other EPA restrictions are as follows:

-Fires must be more than 1,000 feet from neighbor's inhabited building

-Burning is prohibited when an air pollution alert, warning or emergency is in effect.

-Fire and/or smoke must not obscure visibility on roadways, railways or airfields

-No waste generated off the premises may be burned

-Burning is prohibited within village or city limits or restricted areas

Anyone with further questions about burning regulations can contact the EPA at 614-644-2270.