Open Burning
The Jefferson County Board of Health Air Pollution Control Rules and Regulations prohibit outdoor burning.
The Air Pollution Control Program asks that you eliminate all outdoor burning.
Outdoor fires for preparation of food however, are permitted.
Rubbish and trash should be put in appropriate containers for collection by the municipal or private sanitation service for your area.
Leaves and lawn debris should be handled in the same manner, or piled on the rear of your own property for composting.
It may seem that burning one small leaf pile would not be reason for concern, but many such small fires do contribute significantly to the
county’s air pollution problem. Each individual source must be controlled or eliminated if there is to be an equitable approach to attaining
safe, nuisance-free air for the citizens of Jefferson County to breathe.
Under specific conditions, the Health Officer may issue Open Burning Authorizations. However, no open burning, except for the purposes
of food preparation, is allowed during the “Ozone Season” of May through October. Open Burning Authorizations must be obtained from the
Department for land clearing operations from November through April. These authorizations require strict adherence to minimum distance
requirements and the use of air curtain incinerators.
To request evaluation of a proposed open burning site or to report smoke nuisance please call
(205)930-1276.
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