Outdoor burning rules in Fort Wayne, IN — 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 in Fort Wayne is restricted under IDEM rule 326 IAC 4-1. Burning leaves, yard waste, and trash is prohibited. Only small recreational fires with clean wood are allowed.
Because Fort Wayne is an incorporated municipality within a populated county, Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) rules under 326 IAC 4-1 prohibit open burning of leaves, brush, yard waste, paper, and trash. The only permitted open burning is a recreational fire for warming or cooking that is contained, under 3 feet in diameter, fueled by clean seasoned wood, and at least 25 feet from structures. Agricultural burning and ditch-bank burning are not allowed within city limits. Allen County commissioners may issue countywide burn bans during drought, which override all recreational allowances. Violations can be cited by Fort Wayne Fire Department, Fort Wayne Police, or IDEM inspectors. IDEM civil penalties for open-burning violations can reach $25,000 per day under IC 13-30-4.
IDEM can levy up to $25,000 per day per IC 13-30-4. City fire citations and abatement costs may also apply.
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See how Fort Wayne's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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