Outdoor burning rules in New Castle County, DE — also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance — set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Outdoor burning in unincorporated New Castle County is regulated by the Delaware Division of Air Quality. Burn bans are declared during poor air quality events. Open burning requires compliance with state regulations.
The Delaware Division of Air Quality (under DNREC) regulates open burning statewide. In unincorporated New Castle County, recreational fires in fire pits are generally permitted on private property when there is no active burn ban. Burning trash, debris, treated lumber, or yard waste is typically prohibited. Burn bans are declared during air quality alert days and during drought conditions. The county enforces standards through coordination with state agencies.
Burning during a ban or burning prohibited materials results in fines from state or county enforcement.
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See how New Castle County's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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