Outdoor burning rules in Evanston, 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.
Evanston prohibits open burning of yard waste, leaves, trash, and other materials. The only outdoor fires permitted are contained recreational fires (fire pits) and charcoal/gas grills used for cooking. Burning of leaves and yard debris was banned decades ago and is actively enforced.
Under Evanston's Fire Prevention Code and Illinois EPA regulations, open burning of leaves, brush, yard waste, construction debris, and household trash is prohibited within city limits. This ban has been in effect for decades and reflects both air quality and fire safety concerns in Evanston's dense residential environment. Recreational fires in approved containers (fire pits, chimineas) burning clean firewood are the only exception, subject to the fire pit regulations. Charcoal and gas grills used for cooking are permitted but must be kept at least 10 feet from combustible structures. Yard waste must be placed in approved landscape bags or containers for city collection. Evanston provides free leaf collection in the fall. Contact Evanston Fire at (847) 866-5923.
Open burning violations carry fines of $100 to $500. The fire department may extinguish any prohibited fire and bill the property owner for response costs. Repeat offenders face escalated fines and potential misdemeanor charges.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle outdoor burning.
See how Evanston's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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