Pennsylvania Statewide Rule
Pennsylvania Outdoor Burning Air Quality Regulations
Key Facts
- Governing rule
- 25 Pa Code 129.14
- Trash burning
- Prohibited statewide
- Max civil penalty
- $25,000 per day
- Enforcement
- PA DEP and locals
Summary
Pennsylvania DEP regulations under 25 Pa Code Chapter 129 prohibit open burning of trash and most refuse statewide. Air pollution rules apply universally and supplement local fire ordinances on outdoor burning.
(a) Air basins. No person may permit the open burning of material in an air basin. (b) Outside of air basins. No person may permit the open burning of material in an area outside of air basins in a manner that: (1) The emissions are visible, at any time, at the point such emissions pass outside the property of the person on whose land the open burning is being conducted. (2) Malodorous air contaminants from the open burning are detectable outside the property of the person on whose land the open burning is being conducted.
Full Breakdown
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 & Penalties
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn household trash in my Pennsylvania backyard?
Are recreational campfires allowed under Pennsylvania state law?
Sources
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