Pennsylvania Outdoor Burning Air Quality Regulations

Pennsylvania's Air Pollution Control Act and 25 Pa Code Section 129.14 prohibit the open burning of materials that produce air contaminants. Burning of household trash, garbage, and most non-vegetative waste is prohibited statewide. Allowable open burning generally includes small recreational fires, ceremonial fires, and limited agricultural burning. During declared air quality alerts or drought emergencies, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and DEP may issue statewide burn bans. Municipalities may impose stricter rules but cannot authorize burning the state prohibits.

Violations of the Air Pollution Control Act carry civil penalties up to $25,000 per day. Summary offenses for illegal burning may be cited by local authorities or DEP. Repeat violations may escalate to misdemeanor charges with higher fines and possible imprisonment.