Mississippi Statewide Rule

Mississippi Outdoor Burning and Forestry Burn Permits

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Mississippi (2026)

Key Facts

Forestry statute: Miss. Code 49-19-1 et seq.
Air rule: DEQ APC-S-1
Permitting agency: MS Forestry Commission
Prohibited materials: Garbage, tires, plastics
Burn bans: Issued by Forestry Commission

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Justia Law

Summary

Mississippi regulates outdoor burning through the Mississippi Forestry Commission and Department of Environmental Quality. Burning of household refuse and yard debris is allowed with restrictions, but burn bans and air quality rules apply statewide.

The board of supervisors may, by order, prohibit or restrict outdoor burning in all or part of the unincorporated parts of the county if drought or wildfire conditions have been determined to exist by the State Forestry Commission. An order must specify the period during which burning is restricted. The State Forestry Commission shall notify the board of supervisors when the drought or wildfire conditions no longer exist. Any order issued under this section shall expire upon the determination that the drought or wildfire conditions no longer exist.

Source: Justia LawView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Miss. Code Ann. Sections 49-19-1 et seq. and DEQ air pollution regulations (APC-S-1), open burning of leaves, brush, and natural vegetation is generally allowed on private property, but burning of household garbage, tires, treated wood, plastics, or commercial waste is prohibited. The Mississippi Forestry Commission issues burn permits for forestry-related burns and may issue statewide or county burn bans during high fire-danger conditions. Fires must be attended, kept small, and be at least 50 feet from structures. Violations of burn bans or air pollution rules can result in fines and liability for fire suppression costs if a fire escapes.

Violations & Penalties

Burning during a Forestry Commission burn ban, burning prohibited materials, or allowing fires to escape can result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $500, and civil liability for suppression costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn yard debris on my property in Mississippi?

Yes, leaves and natural vegetation may generally be burned on private property if attended, kept small, away from structures, and not during a burn ban or air quality alert.

Who issues burn bans in Mississippi?

The Mississippi Forestry Commission issues burn bans by county or statewide during periods of high wildfire danger, drought, or hazardous weather conditions.

What materials are illegal to burn outdoors?

Household garbage, tires, treated lumber, plastics, painted materials, asbestos, asphaltic shingles, and commercial or industrial waste are prohibited under DEQ air pollution rules.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.