South Carolina Statewide Rule
South Carolina Outdoor Burning Notification and Restrictions
Key Facts
- Notification Required
- Before any burn
- Authority
- SC Forestry Commission
- Prohibited Materials
- Trash, plastics, lumber
- Attendance
- Required until out
- Statute
- SC Code 48-35-10
Summary
South Carolina law requires anyone burning yard debris outdoors to notify the SC Forestry Commission before ignition. Burning trash, building materials, or debris during a state burn ban is prohibited statewide.
Except as otherwise provided by law, the provisions of this chapter do not apply to a fire used for the preparation of food for immediate consumption, or fires burned in portable outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, or permanent fire pits constructed of stone, masonry, metal, or other noncombustible material that conforms with all applicable South Carolina fire codes so long as a person has cleared around the area to be burned and has immediately available sufficient equipment and personnel to adequately secure the fire and prevent its spread.
Full Breakdown
Under SC Code Section 48-35-10 and related Forestry Commission regulations, any person burning leaves, brush, or other vegetative debris outdoors must notify the South Carolina Forestry Commission before starting the fire. Notification can be made by phone or online. Open burning of household garbage, tires, treated lumber, plastics, and construction debris is prohibited under SCDES (formerly DHEC) Regulation 61-62.2. The Forestry Commission may issue statewide or county-specific burn bans during drought or high fire danger; violating a burn ban is a misdemeanor. The fire must be attended at all times until completely extinguished.
Violations & Penalties
Burning without notification or during a burn ban is a misdemeanor with fines up to $200 plus suppression costs; negligent fires causing damage may result in civil liability for all damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I notify the Forestry Commission before burning?
Can I burn household trash in my yard?
Sources
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