DNREC reminds Delawareans the First State’s open burn ban takes effect next month.
Delaware’s annual open burn ban starts May 1 and runs through September 30.
Before that residents can do open burns to help clean up debris in their yard. But DNREC’s Division of Community Affairs director Pat Emory says it's a limited option.
“If anybody wants to do any open burning right now, they’re allowed to burn brush and limbs - that type of thing - that’s on their residences, said Emory. "They can’t bring anything from outside in and pile it up there. They can burn up to 27 cubic feet at one given time.”
Emory adds burning is only allowed between 8 a.m, and 4 p.m. The county Fire Call Board must be notified before and after any burn and the fire must be monitored at all times.
You can reach the New Castle County Fire Board at (302) 571-7331; in Kent (302) 734-6040 and in Sussex (302) 856-6306.
Things that cannot be burned include grass clippings, leaves, construction debris and trash or garbage.
Emory says you should also keep a garden hose or bucket of water close by in case the fire gets out of control.
After May 1, outdoor burning is prohibited with the exception of cooking fires, recreational campfires and ceremonial bonfires using wood.
DNREC’s Environmental Crimes Unit will issue fines between $500 to $1,500 for violations.
