Open burning of leaves, yard waste, and refuse is broadly prohibited in Bergen County under New Jersey air pollution rules. Limited exceptions exist for recreational fires and agricultural or prescribed burns with permits.
Under N.J.A.C. 7:27-2, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection prohibits open burning of refuse, leaves, brush, and yard waste throughout the state, including all of Bergen County. Allowable exceptions include small recreational cooking and warming fires, agricultural burning of vegetative debris with a permit, and prescribed forest fires conducted by the NJ Forest Fire Service. Salamanders or smudge pots used for frost protection are also exempt. Local fire officials may suspend any outdoor burning during drought conditions or air quality alerts. Bergen County's dense suburban character means open-burning enforcement is generally strict, with many municipalities banning even permitted activities by ordinance.
Violations of NJDEP open burning rules carry penalties up to $10,000 per day, plus restoration costs and potential criminal charges for repeat offenders.
See how other cities in Bergen County handle outdoor burning.
See how Bergenfield's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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