Outdoor Burn Ban Lifted In Fulton County

FULTON COUNTY, GA — The seasonal burn ban that is extended across much of Georgia, including Fulton County, was lifted on Friday.

On May 1 of almost every year, the state's Environmental Protection Division issues a prohibition on open burning to help curb fires fueled by dry conditions and improve overall air quality. The ban covers 54 Georgia counties, including Fulton County, and historically extends on Sept. 30.

Although Fulton County is not currently experiencing a drought, the lifting of the burn ban doesn't mean residents can start burning anything, anywhere and at anytime.

"If you're going to burn, it's critical that you do it safely," City of Milton Fire Marshal Alex Fortner said. "Just because it's not summer anymore doesn't mean that flames can't spread quickly."

For residents living in agriculturally zoned (AG-1) areas, outdoor burning of small piles of residential yard debris may be allowed starting Friday. Specific to Milton, burning in non-agricultural areas, in other words, plots that aren't agriculturally zoned, is always prohibited. If you're unsure of your zoning, check out this zoning map on the City of Milton's website.

Anyone thinking of burning should be aware of wind conditions, since stronger gusts can cause flames to spread quickly. They should also check the Georgia Forestry Commission fire danger rating map for the daily rating or contact the Milton Fire Department at 678-242-2541 during regular business hours for guidance. If the rating is 3, 4, or 5, you shouldn't burn outside, burn ban or not.

If you do choose to burn yard debris (e.g. leaves, small branches, etc.), the fire danger rating isn't high AND you live in an agriculturally zoned area, follow these safety tips:

• Have the right tools handy for a safe burn such as a rake, shovel, personal protective equipment
• Have extinguishment equipment (e.g. water hose, portable fire extinguisher) readily available as well
• Keep your burn piles small (generally no more than 3 to 4 feet across)
• The debris pile should be at least 50 feet from any building or other structure like a fence, pole, public utility, etc.
• Clear 25 feet or more around the debris pile (so nothing else catches on fire)
• Be also mindful that smoke and heat from a fire rises -- so lower-hanging branches and leaves can be enflamed if you're not careful
• Never use flammable liquids to start fire
• Never leave the fire unattended
• Make sure any fires are out by the time it gets dark

If you have questions or concerns on open burning, contact the Milton Fire-Rescue Department by calling 678-242-2541 or emailing fire.marshal@cityofmiltonga.us.