Outdoor burning rules in Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis-Marion County is regulated by IDEM (IC §13-17-9) and local ordinance. Disposal burning of dried branches/limbs in a non-combustible container (mesh openings ≤1/4 inch) is allowed, kept 15+ ft from structures, attended at all times, extinguished by sunset. Preferred hours: 10 AM–3 PM. No trash, garbage, or prohibited materials.
Indianapolis residents may burn only dried branches, limbs, and twigs from their own property in a non-combustible container with mesh openings no greater than 1/4 inch, placed at least 15 feet from any structure. Fire must be attended at all times and extinguished before sunset. Do not burn during high wind, temperature inversions, or Air Quality Action Days. Multi-unit dwellings (5+ units) may only use gas fire pits.
Report violations to Mayor's Action Center: 317-327-4622.
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See how Indianapolis's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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