Ohio’s Spring Burn Ban Starts March 1

SOUTH ZANESVILLE, OH –With the arrival of warmer weather, fire safety becomes a top priority. 

Starting Saturday, March 1st, the statewide spring burn ban goes into effect across the state of Ohio. During this time, it’s crucial to remember fire safety rules in accordance with Ohio’s outdoor fire laws.

“Starting this Saturday, March 1st, is the burn ban in the state of Ohio. During this burn ban you aren’t allowed to burn anything outside from the hours of 6 am- 6 pm,” South Zanesville Fire Department Chief Russell Taylor said. “You decide to burn after 6 pm, make sure it’s in a confined area. Either in a burning barrel that you can burn in or a pit no bigger than 3 by 3 and 2 foot high. That way you can control it, always stay with it.”

In addition to these burn rules, Chief Taylor reminds residents to stay vigilant about their property as we head into the sunny months. Simple things like reflective surfaces can contribute to fire risks. Items such as water bottles, magnifying glasses, and other reflective materials can focus the sun’s rays and potentially ignite brush fires. When it comes to burning, it’s important to know what’s safe. 

“Only burn natural products, don’t burn any trash, don’t burn anything with plastics in it, oil-based, any wood with slack, chemicals and stuff in it. That stuff is illegal to burn regardless of any time of the year, only burn natural products which is limbs and yard clippings and dead grass. That’s the only thing you’re required to burn.”

Safety is key when burning. If you have a pile of brush you plan to burn, it’s a good idea to contact your local fire department before igniting it. They can assess the setup and ensure everything is safe to burn. For more tips and information on outdoor fire laws, visit The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Website under the “Burning Regulations” page.