Outdoor burning rules in Shelby County, 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 in Shelby County is prohibited except by permit. The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Air Pollution Control Section issues burn permits under Shelby County (3-16) and Memphis City (16-50) air codes. Only on-site trees and brush may burn; a $100 fee applies.
Open burning in Shelby County is prohibited, though exceptions can be granted under conditions that do not harm air quality or create a public nuisance. The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department's Air Pollution Control Section operates under Memphis City code (16-50) or Shelby County code (3-16) and works with fire departments to issue permits. To burn in the unincorporated county, contact the Health Department (901-544-7349) at least 24 hours ahead; a $100 permit is required, and it schedules a Fire Department inspection. Only trees and brush from the burn site may be burned; construction debris, furniture, plastic, tires, and roofing must not be. The state Division of Forestry also requires a debris-burn permit October 15 to May 15.
The Health Department may fine violators of permit conditions up to $25,000 per violation and revoke permits for excessive smoke. Burning without a required state Division of Forestry permit (Oct. 15-May 15) is a Class C misdemeanor.
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See how Shelby County's outdoor burning rules stack up against other locations.
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