Outdoor burning rules in Atlanta, GA — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Open burning of yard debris is banned in Atlanta and 53 other metro counties from May 1 to Sep 30 under Georgia EPD rules. Small recreational fires in approved appliances remain allowed year-round.
Under Georgia Rule 391-3-1-.02(5) and the EPD's 54-county metro burn ordinance, open burning of leaves, limbs, and household waste is banned in Fulton and DeKalb counties, including all of Atlanta, from May 1 through September 30 each year. Outside that window, Atlanta's own ordinance and state rules still prohibit burning household garbage, and any outdoor burn may require a permit from the Georgia Forestry Commission plus a city courtesy notice to Atlanta Fire Rescue. Small recreational fires in portable fire pits, chimineas, or barbecue grills using clean wood or charcoal are allowed year-round, must stay under 3 feet in diameter, and must be at least 25 feet from structures.
Illegal open burning is a misdemeanor under GA Rule 391-3-1. Fines escalate with repeat offenses. Atlanta Fire may extinguish the fire and recover costs.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fulton County.
See how other cities in Fulton County handle outdoor burning.
See how Atlanta's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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