Fire safety & burn rules

Open burning in Ohio

Outdoor open burning in Ohio is regulated under Ohio Revised Code 1503.18. During March 1 – May 31 and October 1 – November 30, open burning is prohibited between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. — the times of year and day when wildfire risk is highest.

Other restrictions apply year-round (materials, proximity to structures and roadways, and local rules). When in doubt, do not burn — call the department's non-emergency line at 740.674.4444 and ask first. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry publishes the full rules.

In your home

• Install smoke alarms on every level and outside every sleeping area. Test them monthly; replace batteries yearly and the alarm itself every ten years.
• Make a home escape plan with two ways out of every room, and pick an outside meeting place. Practice it with everyone in the house.
• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from heat sources, and never leave cooking or open flames unattended.
• If a fire starts: get out, stay out, and call 9‑1‑1 from outside. Never go back in.

For any emergency, dial 9‑1‑1.