Georgia’s seasonal burn ban lifts October 1, giving residents across 54 counties the chance to burn natural yard debris again under strict rules.
What’s Happening: The Environmental Protection Division prohibits open burning from May 1 through September 30 to protect air quality during the hotter months. Beginning October 1, residents in those counties may once again burn small piles of natural vegetation like leaves, pine needles, and limbs — but only if they follow state safety rules.
The Rules: Fires must be kept at least 50 feet away from structures with a 25-foot cleared area around the burn pile. Piles should be small, only a few feet across, and never left unattended. Burning is allowed only between sunrise and sunset, and residents must have tools and water or an extinguisher on hand.
Between the Lines: Some materials are banned year-round. That includes garbage, treated wood, plastics, and construction debris. Fires using materials moved from another property are also not allowed.
Catch Up Quick: The seasonal burn ban is meant to reduce air pollution and lower wildfire risks. Even after October 1, some counties may require permits for larger burns, and residents should always check the Georgia Forestry Commission’s fire danger rating before lighting a pile. You should also check your local laws and ordinances, as city and county burn rules may be different.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
