Because of the dry conditions in metro Atlanta, and despite the recent rains around the area, the Marietta Fire Department reminds citizens a ban on outdoor burning is in effect through September.

In order to comply with this restriction on outdoor burning the Marietta Fire Department will not issue any permits for outdoor burning between May 1 and September 30.

Where and when does the ban apply

The burn ban is in effect in Marietta and 54 Georgia counties from May 1 through September 30 each year.

What types of open burning are banned

• Burning of leaves, tree limbs, or other yard wastes
• Burning of vegetative waste from land clearing
• Burning over of forest land by the owners of the land

Fires that are allowed

• Fires for carrying out recognized agricultural practices
• Fires for recreational purposes or for cooking food
• Fires for training fire-fighting personnel

Why the ban is needed

During the summer months in metro Atlanta, the ozone in the air we breathe can reach unhealthy levels. Ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides coming from manmade and natural sources react in the presence of sunlight. A major source of these pollutants is the burning of fuels and other combustible materials.

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division has identified open burning as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone. Therefore, open burning in metro Atlanta and the surrounding areas must be restricted during the summer months.

For more information, call the Marietta Fire Department at 770-794-5466.