Outdoor Burning: Wauwatosa vs West Allis
How do outdoor burning rules compare between Wauwatosa, WI and West Allis, WI?
Wauwatosa has fewer restrictions than West Allis.
Wauwatosa, WI
Milwaukee County
Outdoor burning in Wauwatosa is restricted. Recreational fires in enclosed containers are generally permitted. Burning of yard waste or refuse is prohibited. Wisconsin DNR NR 101 also applies to open burning.
View full Wauwatosa rules →West Allis, WI
Milwaukee County
Open burning in Wisconsin is regulated by the DNR under NR 429 and by each municipality, not by Milwaukee County. NR 429.04 allows only small amounts of dry rubbish, leaves, and clippings unless a local ordinance bans it. Most urban municipalities prohibit residential burning.
View full West Allis rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Wauwatosa | West Allis |
|---|---|---|
| Recreational Fires | Permitted in enclosed container | - |
| Yard Waste | Burning prohibited | - |
| DNR Authority | NR 101 open burning rules apply | - |
| Enforcement | Wauwatosa Fire Department | - |
| Primary authority | - | WI DNR NR 429 + municipal code |
| County burn permits | - | None - DNR/municipal only |
| Allowed materials | - | Small dry rubbish, leaves, clippings |
| Always prohibited | - | Garbage, plastic, oily, treated wood |
| Urban reality | - | Most cities ban residential burning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Wauwatosa FAQ
Can I burn yard waste in my backyard in Wauwatosa?
Outdoor burning in Wauwatosa is restricted. Recreational fires in enclosed containers are generally permitted. Burning of yard waste or refuse is prohibited. Wisconsin DNR NR 101 also applies to open burning.
Do I need a permit for outdoor burning in Wauwatosa?
Recreational Fires: Permitted in enclosed container. Yard Waste: Burning prohibited. DNR Authority: NR 101 open burning rules apply. Enforcement: Wauwatosa Fire Department.
West Allis FAQ
Can I burn leaves in Milwaukee County?
State rule NR 429.04 allows small amounts of dry leaves and clippings except where prohibited by local ordinance, but most urbanized municipalities ban it. Check your city, village, or town first.
Does Milwaukee County issue burn permits?
No. Open-burning authority rests with the DNR under NR 429 and with each municipality. The county only governs fires on its own parks and parkways.
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