Fire Regulations in Washington County, MD (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Washington County, Maryland.
Verified from official government sources
Outdoor Burning
Washington County bans burning trash as a way to get rid of it unless a permit is issued first. The Solid Waste Collection Licensing Ordinance defines open burning as combustion that lacks controlled combustion air, an enclosed burn chamber, and emissions control, then prohibits using it to manage solid waste unless the Washington County Health Department authorizes it.
Washington County MD Open Burning Ban
Significant RestrictionsSolid Waste Collection Licensing Ordinance §§ 1.0, 2.3.10
Open burning means the combustion of any material without any of the following characteristics: 1. Control of combustion air to maintain adequate temperature for efficient combustion; 2. Containment of the combustion reaction in an enclosed device to provide sufficient residence time and mixing for complete combustion; 3. Control of emission of the gaseous combustion products. ... No person sha...
Smoke Detectors
The Livability Code requires at least one smoke detector in every sleeping area of a structure, wired or installed to alarm occupants inside the unit, and owners must keep every detector in working order under applicable codes.
Washington County Smoke Detector Rule
Some RestrictionsWashington County Livability Code § 2-213(b)
(b) Fire protection. (1) The property owner shall maintain all fire protection systems and equipment in proper operating condition at all times. (i) At least 1 smoke detector shall be installed in each sleeping area in a structure. (ii) When activated, a smoke detection shall provide an alarm suitable to warn the occupants within the unit. (2) The property owner shall: (i) Provide all housing u...
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