Burn Ban in Effect for DeKalb and Etowah Counties Through October

MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) has implemented its annual summer burn ban, now in effect through October 31, impacting 12 counties across the state, including DeKalb and Etowah counties.

The seasonal restriction prohibits the open burning of vegetative materials and land-clearing debris during the warmer months, a period when weather conditions can contribute to increased air pollution. Officials say the regulation is designed to reduce ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter, which can pose health risks and degrade air quality.

In addition to DeKalb and Etowah, counties included in the burn ban are Baldwin, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Mobile, Montgomery, Morgan, Russell, Shelby, and Talladega. In Jefferson County, residents are advised that additional, more stringent local restrictions may also apply.

Under the ban, the burning of items such as wood, tree trimmings, brush, and yard debris is prohibited. However, certain activities are still generally allowed, including campfires and the use of outdoor fireplaces, unless further restricted due to drought conditions or local ordinances.

Officials note that some agricultural and silvicultural burning operations may be permitted but require prior approval from both ADEM and the Alabama Forestry Commission.

Violations of the burn ban can result in fines issued by ADEM.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed on current restrictions and any updates by visiting ADEM’s official Open Burning webpage.

Other counties could have additional bans placed by the Alabama Forestry Commission

in the future as well.