Outdoor burning rules in Passaic County, NJ — 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 rubbish, garbage, leaves, and plant waste is prohibited statewide by NJDEP rules that apply throughout Passaic County. Only permitted recreational fires and specific permitted burns are allowed.
New Jersey's air-quality rules (N.J.A.C. 7:27-2) prohibit disposing of refuse, leaves, or plant material by open burning anywhere in the state, including all Passaic County municipalities. Limited exceptions exist only under a permit from the NJDEP Forest Fire Service, such as for infested plant life, agricultural or forestry operations, and certain recreational or ceremonial fires. Residents wanting a bonfire or larger recreational fire must obtain a free permit from the nearest Forest Fire Service office, typically at least 10 days in advance. During elevated wildfire danger the state may impose stage restrictions that ban ground fires. Local fire officials also enforce the Uniform Fire Code on top of these state rules.
Illegal open burning can bring NJDEP penalties, and setting fires without a Forest Firewarden's written permission carries fines up to $5,000 plus suppression-cost reimbursement.
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