Outdoor burning rules in Cook County, IL — 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 landscape waste is prohibited in urbanized areas of Cook County under Illinois EPA regulations (35 IAC Part 237). Cook County Chapter 30 reinforces air quality protections. Limited exceptions exist for agricultural burns.
The Illinois EPA (35 IAC Part 237) prohibits open burning of landscape waste in urbanized areas, which includes most of Cook County. Cook County Code Chapter 30 (Environment) contains air quality provisions that further restrict outdoor burning. Burning of leaves, brush, and yard waste is prohibited. Only clean, dry wood for recreational or cooking purposes in appropriate fire containers may be burned, subject to local fire district rules. Agricultural burning on qualifying agricultural land may be exempt with proper permits. Burning of garbage, trash, or construction debris is always illegal under both state and county law. The Illinois EPA and local fire protection districts enforce these regulations.
Illegal open burning: IEPA enforcement, county fine of $100–$1,000 per day. Burning prohibited materials: additional state penalties.
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See how Cook County's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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