Wyoming State Open Burning Regulations and DEQ Oversight

Wyoming's open burning rules are administered by the DEQ Air Quality Division under Wyoming Air Quality Standards and Regulations (WAQSR) Chapter 10, Section 2. The rules apply statewide and govern small-scale burns of refuse, trade wastes, leaves, vegetative debris, fire hazards, and emergency or training operations. Statutory exemptions cover recreational fires, cooking, warming, livestock branding, and handheld extinguisher training. Large-scale prescribed and agricultural burns fall under the Smoke Management Program. Local fire departments and county commissioners may impose additional restrictions, but the DEQ framework establishes the universal statewide baseline that no municipality may relax.

DEQ violations may result in administrative penalties under W.S. 35-11-901, including civil fines up to $10,000 per day for unauthorized burning of prohibited materials.