Madison, AL Fire Regulations: Outdoor Burning (2026)
Outdoor burning rules in Madison, AL, also called the burn ban, open burning, or fire restriction ordinance, set when you can burn yard waste, debris, or run a recreational fire.
Key Facts
- Open burning
- Illegal without permit
- Permit line
- (256) 461-1625
- Permit validity
- City limits only
- Yard/trash burning
- Not permitted
- State woods burn
- AFC permit (9-13-11)
Summary
Open burning of any type is illegal in the City of Madison. Burning yard waste, brush, trash, or construction debris is not allowed. A permit from the City of Madison Fire Marshal's Office is required, and Madison Fire & Rescue allows burning only in limited instances.
If you are within the city limits of Madison, Alabama and you meet the requirements set forth by the ordinance, please call the City of Madison Fire Marshal's Office at (256) 461-1625 to request a permit. The permit is only valid within the city limits of Madison, Alabama.
Full Breakdown
Per the City of Madison, 'Burning of any type is illegal in the City of Madison,' with a narrow exception for permitted recreational fire pits. Madison Fire & Rescue will allow burning only in certain instances and only by permit. Residents must first read the Open Burning Regulations to confirm they meet the criteria, then call the City of Madison Fire Marshal's Office at (256) 461-1625 to request a permit. The permit is only valid within the city limits of Madison, Alabama. Under Alabama's statewide burn law, burning grasslands or woodlands also requires a permit number from the Alabama Forestry Commission (Ala. Code 9-13-11).
Violations & Fines
Illegal open burning can be extinguished by the Fire Department and cited as a nuisance violation; state-level unpermitted woods burning carries Forestry Commission penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn leaves or brush in my yard?
How do I get a burn permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Madison
How Madison compares: Cities with the Strictest Outdoor Burning Rules·Compare Madison to another location·View the Alabama fire regulations overview
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Outdoor Burning in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Madison County handle outdoor burning.