Outdoor burning rules in Memphis, TN — 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 within Memphis city limits requires two permits: (1) Memphis Fire Department ($50 fee; $75 for 24-hr notice); (2) Shelby County Health Department Air Pollution Control Section. Governed by Memphis City Code §16-50. Burning prohibited on Code Orange air quality days or higher.
The Memphis Fire Department requires a permit with 48-hour advance notice ($50 fee) for any open burning within city limits. The Shelby County Health Department's Air Pollution Control Section must also issue a permit. Burning not allowed when AQI is at Code Orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) or higher. TDEC Rule 1200-03-04 governs statewide. Improper burning can result in fines up to $25,000.
Burning without permits: fines up to $25,000. All air quality violations enforced by SCHD Air Pollution Control.
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See how Memphis's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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