Ohio Statewide Rule

Ohio EPA Open Burning Restrictions Apply Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Ohio (2026)

Ohio Administrative Code 3745-19 establishes statewide open burning restrictions enforced by the Ohio EPA, prohibiting burning of garbage, materials containing rubber or plastic, and most waste regardless of local rules.

Key Facts

Regulation: OAC 3745-19
Enforcement: Ohio EPA
Restricted area: Within 1,000 feet of city
Max civil fine: $25,000 per day

Source: Ohio Laws & Administrative Rules

Full Breakdown

OAC 3745-19-03 prohibits open burning of materials including garbage, dead animals, materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt, or liquid petroleum, and any materials that produce noxious odors. Agricultural waste, land-clearing debris, and certain ceremonial fires are conditionally allowed with notice to Ohio EPA. Burning within restricted areas, defined as areas inside municipal corporations and within 1,000 feet of those boundaries, requires written Ohio EPA permission. ORC 3704.03 grants the Ohio EPA exclusive authority over air pollution, though local fire departments may impose additional safety rules.

Violations & Penalties

Civil penalties up to $25,000 per day under ORC 3704.06; criminal misdemeanor charges available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn leaves and yard waste in Ohio?

Outside restricted areas, plant matter from your own property may be burned during permitted seasons. Inside or within 1,000 feet of municipal boundaries, burning requires written Ohio EPA permission.

What materials are always banned from open burning in Ohio?

OAC 3745-19-03 prohibits burning garbage, dead animals, food waste, materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt, plastic, or petroleum products, and any material producing noxious odors statewide.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn leaves and yard waste in Ohio?

What materials are always banned from open burning in Ohio?

OAC 3745-19-03 prohibits burning garbage, dead animals, food waste, materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt, plastic, or petroleum products, and any material producing noxious odors statewide.