Macon-Bibb County lifts burn ban, permits needed to burn

The outdoor burn ban in Macon-Bibb County was lifted October 1.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The outdoor burn ban in Macon-Bibb County is lifted as of October 1.

Fire recruiter/ Life Safety Educator at the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department, Lt. Jeremy Webb, says it is important that people know the rules for safe burning.

Webb says that anyone who will be burning outside needs to first secure a permit.

The Macon-Bibb County Fire Department released the following rules for residential burning:

• Burning is permitted October 1 through April 30 only.
• Burning is allowed only between 9 a.m. and sunset.
• You may only burn natural vegetative materials from your property on your property.
• Burn piles may not exceed 6x6x3 feet.
• The fire location must be a minimum of 50 feet from any structure and 50 feet from all property lines.
• A competent adult must be present to guard the burn the entire time the fire is burning.
• A functional garden hose or another method of extinguishment must be present to control or extinguish the fire.
• The fire must be completely out before dark, with no smoldering or hot coals remaining.
• Burning is not permitted when sustained winds are greater than 10 MPH or on days when atmospheric conditions cause smoke to remain low.
• Fires may not be started with petroleum-based products such as kerosene, gas , diesel, lighter fluid etc.
• Do not burn any building materials, furniture, plastics, clothing, rubber or tires, newspapers, household garbage, or boxes.

According to Webb, commercial operators are required to have a site visit before a permit can be issued.

Webb says if you have any questions or concerns, call the Fire Prevention line at 478-751-2700.