Politics & Government

Annual Burn Ban Starts Tuesday

Why is the burn ban needed? What does it entail? How long does it last? Take a look.

The annual statewide ban on open burning begins Tuesday.

The ban is issued by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and affects 54 counties in Georgia, including the city of Marietta and all of .

During the ban period, residents cannot burn leaves, tree limbs, forestland or use air curtain destructors for land clearing, according to the City of Marietta. 

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Recreational fires are allowed, assistant chief Scott Tucker said. "Residents can call the department, and we will walk them through the process."

Why the Burn Ban is Needed

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) imposes a ban on outdoor burning to comply with federal clean air regulations, according to the

Find out what's happening in Mariettawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

During the summer months in Georgia, the ozone in the air we breathe can reach unhealthy levels. The Georgia EPD has identified open burning as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone, according to the city. As a result, open burning must be restricted during the summer months.

The ban runs through Sept. 30.

For more information contact the Georgia Environmental Protection Division at 404-363-7000 or at 770-794-5466.

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