Outdoor Burning: Des Plaines vs Oak Park
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Oak Park.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Outdoor burning in Des Plaines is regulated under the Des Plaines Fire Code (MC Chapter 3) and Illinois EPA rules (415 ILCS 5). Refuse burning is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed.
View full Des Plaines rules →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park prohibits open burning of yard waste, leaves, trash, and construction debris. The only permitted outdoor fires are recreational fires in approved fire pits and barbecue grills used for cooking. Illinois EPA regulations and Cook County Health Department rules reinforce the prohibition on open burning. Yard waste must be collected through the Village's curbside program.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Des Plaines MC Chapter 3 (IFC adopted) | - |
| State Law | 415 ILCS 5 — IL EPA open burning rules | - |
| Refuse Burning | Prohibited | - |
| Contact | Fire Prevention Bureau: 847-391-5333 | - |
| Open Burning | - | Prohibited year-round |
| Yard Waste Burning | - | Illegal — use curbside collection |
| Grills/Fire Pits | - | Permitted (with conditions) |
| Fine Range | - | $100–$750 |
| Yard Waste Pickup | - | (708) 358-5700 Public Works |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Des Plaines?
Outdoor burning in Des Plaines is regulated under the Des Plaines Fire Code (MC Chapter 3) and Illinois EPA rules (415 ILCS 5). Refuse burning is prohibited. Recreational fires in approved containers may be allowed.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Des Plaines?
Code: Des Plaines MC Chapter 3 (IFC adopted). State Law: 415 ILCS 5 — IL EPA open burning rules. Refuse Burning: Prohibited. Contact: Fire Prevention Bureau: 847-391-5333.
Oak Park FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Oak Park IL?
No. Open burning of leaves, yard waste, or any materials is prohibited year-round in Oak Park. Use the Village's curbside yard waste collection program. Contact Public Works at (708) 358-5700 for pickup schedules.
Is it legal to burn trash in your backyard in Oak Park?
No. Burning trash, construction debris, or any waste materials is illegal in Oak Park under both Village ordinance and Illinois EPA regulations. Fines range from $100 to $750.
What outdoor fires are legal in Oak Park?
Only recreational fires in approved fire pits (15 feet from structures, using clean wood) and barbecue grills used for cooking are permitted. No burning of leaves, yard waste, or trash is allowed.
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