Outdoor burning rules in Louisville, KY — 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 is generally prohibited in Louisville/Jefferson County under the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) regulations, which align with 401 KAR 63:005. Burning of yard waste, leaves, garbage, and debris is illegal. Recreational fires in approved fire pits (max 3×3×3 ft) are permitted without a permit using clean dry firewood only.
The Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District (APCD) administers open burning rules pursuant to Metro ordinance and Kentucky administrative regulations. Burning of tree leaves, garbage, yard clippings, construction debris, fallen branches, and refuse is illegal. Recreational fires are permitted without a permit only when: (1) contained in an approved permanent or portable fire pit meeting dimensional requirements; (2) fueled by clean, dry firewood only; (3) no accelerants are used; and (4) no Air Quality Alert is in effect and winds do not exceed 15 mph. Larger ceremonial fires (over 3×3×3 ft) require a free APCD Recreational Fire Permit obtained at least 5 working days in advance with notification to the local fire department. Agricultural burns require separate APCD permits. Penalties under LMCO Chapter 94 apply.
Civil penalty of $100 to $1,000 per day per violation (LMCO Ch. 94). Each day's violation is a separate offense. APCD can order cessation of burning. Report illegal burning to APCD at 502-574-6000.
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