Ohio Statewide Rule

Ohio Open Burning Ban During Wildfire Season (ORC 1503.18)

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Ohio (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: ORC 1503.18
Banned hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Banned months: Mar, Apr, May, Oct, Nov
Setback exception: 200 feet from woodland/grass
Penalty: 3rd-degree misdemeanor

Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

Ohio Revised Code 1503.18 bans open-air fires outside municipal limits between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. during March, April, May, October, and November: the state's peak spring and fall wildfire months.

no person shall kindle or authorize another to kindle a fire in the open air, outside the limits of any municipal corporation...between the hours of six a.m. and six p.m. during the months of March, April, May, October, and November [except fires in plowed fields, gardens, or public highways] at a distance of not less than two hundred feet from any woodland, brushland, or field containing dry grass or other inflammable material.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Statewide, ORC 1503.18 makes it illegal to kindle or authorize a fire in the open air outside any municipal corporation between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. during March, April, May, October, and November. The Ohio Division of Forestry enforces the ban, which targets the leaf-off spring and fall windows when dry grass, brush, and wind drive wildfire risk. Burning is allowed only in plowed fields, gardens, or public highways at least 200 feet from any woodland, brushland, or field of dry grass. The chief of the Division of Forestry may issue waivers to certified prescribed fire managers and to property owners with written fire department approval.

Violations & Penalties

A violation of ORC 1503.18 is a misdemeanor of the third degree under ORC 1503.99(B), carrying up to 60 days in jail and a fine up to $500. Escaped fires can also trigger civil liability for suppression costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I burn brush in my rural yard in April?

Not between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. ORC 1503.18 bans open burning during those hours in March, April, May, October, and November outside city limits. Burn only after 6 p.m.

Does this ban apply inside city limits?

No. ORC 1503.18 applies outside the limits of any municipal corporation. Incorporated areas are governed by local fire codes and Ohio EPA open-burning rules instead.

Who enforces the seasonal burn ban?

The Ohio Division of Forestry (ODNR) enforces ORC 1503.18. Its chief may issue waivers to certified prescribed fire managers and to owners with written fire department approval.

Sources

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