Ohio Statewide Rule

Ohio EPA Open Burning Restrictions Apply Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Ohio (2026)

Key Facts

Regulation: OAC 3745-19
Enforcement: Ohio EPA
Restricted area: City plus 1,000 ft to 1 mile buffer
Max civil fine: $25,000 per day

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Ohio Laws & Administrative Rules

Summary

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.

(C) Excepting fires kindled in a plowed field, garden, or public highway at a distance of not less than two hundred feet from any woodland, brushland, or field containing dry grass or other inflammable material, no person shall kindle or authorize another to kindle a fire in the open air, outside the limits of any municipal corporation or land controlled by any railroad company, for the purpose of burning wood, brush, weeds, grass, or rubbish of any kind between the hours of six a.m. and six p.m. during the months of March, April, May, October, and November in any year. The chief of the division of forestry may adopt rules in accordance with Chapter 119. of the Revised Code to expand the times and places for kindling fires for any affected persons.

Source: Ohio Laws & Administrative RulesView official code

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 requires written Ohio EPA permission; a restricted area includes any municipal corporation plus a zone extending 1,000 feet beyond towns of 1,000 to 10,000 residents and one mile beyond cities of 10,000 or more. 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 a municipality, or within its 1,000-foot to one-mile buffer zone, 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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