Outdoor Burning: Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Skokie.
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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie prohibits nearly all open burning under Chapter 50 and Illinois EPA rules (35 Ill. Adm. Code 237). Burning leaves, yard waste, construction debris, and trash is banned. Only small contained recreational fires and permitted cooking fires are allowed, and a Fire Department permit may be required.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code Section | - | Chapter 50 + 35 Ill. Adm. Code 237 |
| Leaf Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Trash Burning | - | Prohibited |
| Recreational Fires | - | Small, contained only |
| Local Fine | - | $250–$1,500 |
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.
Skokie FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Skokie IL?
No. Burning landscape waste, leaves, or brush is prohibited under both Village Chapter 50 and Illinois EPA rules. Yard waste must be placed out for Village collection instead.
Can I burn construction debris in Skokie?
No. Burning construction or demolition debris is prohibited. Debris must be disposed of through an appropriate licensed waste hauler.
Do I need a permit to have a bonfire in Skokie?
Small recreational fires in a manufactured fire pit generally do not require a permit if they comply with setbacks and fuel rules. Ceremonial or larger burns require a specific Fire Department permit.
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