Iowa Wildfire Burn-Ban Zones Under Code 100.40

Iowa Code section 100.40 lets the state fire marshal ban open burning in a defined area of the state during extremely dry conditions, or whenever open burning threatens life or property. The marshal acts only at the request of a local fire chief, city council, or county board of supervisors, and only after an investigation supports the need. The ban takes effect by proclamation to people in the affected area, and the requesting body can rescind it once conditions clear. Even during a ban, permitted controlled burns, outdoor fireplaces, barbecue grills, supervised landfills, and metal, concrete, masonry, or one-inch-mesh incinerators stay legal.

Burning in violation of a marshal's proclamation is a simple misdemeanor under section 100.40, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a fine of $105 to $855.