Georgia's Open Burning Ban In Effect May 1 Through Sept. 30

FOREST PARK, Ga. — April 27, 2023 — Forest Park Fire and Emergency Services and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) are encouraging residents to adhere to the state's Open Burning Ban, which runs from May 1 through September 30. The ban goes into effect for 54 Georgia counties, including Clayton County.

During the summer months, the ozone in the air individuals breathe can reach unhealthy levels. The Open Burning Ban prohibits citizens and businesses from burning yard and land-clearing debris through the summer ozone season. 

This rule is in addition to the year-round state ban on the burning of household garbage, including tires, shingles, plastics and lumber — even in a burn barrel. Burning household garbage is never allowed anywhere in the State of Georgia. 

Open burning in Georgia is prohibited with the exception of 13 types of legal burn activities, including reduction of leaves on premises, recreational purposes and cooking, land clearing, construction and more. For questions or to learn more about the state's Open Burning Ban, Forest Park residents can contact the Georgia EPD's Mountain District Office at (404) 362-2671 or visit www.epd.georgia.gov.