What to Know Before Burning Yard Waste

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Spring is here and it is time to get our lawns back in order. Getting our yards clean can produce a lot of waste: grass, tree limbs and twigs, or other natural materials. While there are many ways to dispose of these materials, some find it easiest to burn them. If you are one of these people, make sure you are in compliance with local burn ordinances.

Once you understand the rules and regulations relative to your local jurisdiction, it is also extremely important to follow strict safety procedures in order to: remain compliant with local laws; stay safe and avoid fire-related injuries; and reduce likelihood of destruction of property. Once you’re ready to burn, following the guidelines listed below can insure you keep yourself and your surroundings safe:

• Always check your local regulations regarding yard burns. Many localities throughout the Quad Cities have completely different rules that determine what you can burn, times and dates you can burn, and how far a burn must be from structures and public streets.
• Make sure the conditions are right for burning. If it is windy, you should not burn, as fire can spread easily in close quarters. Also make sure your yard is not exceedingly dry, as this can pose a fire-spread risk.
• You should not burn synthetic materials in your yard. This means no household items, garbage, or plastics of any kind. Stick to burning naturally occurring materials that come from your yard alone.
• It is important to be aware of what is above your burn site. Always keep your distance from powerlines, tree limbs, and building overhangs.
• Have at least 10 feet of clearance around your burn, as well as a barrier around your burn made of soil or rocks. It is also helpful to water down the earth around your burn to avoid spreading, especially if the ground is very dry.
• Never leave your fire unattended. Once the fire appears to be out, drown the remains with water, then turn over all of the ashes and repeat. Do not leave the burn alone until it is entirely out.

For more information, feel free to call SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island at 309-797-1199.