Campfires 101

​‘Tis the season for campfires! Campfires are very relaxing and there is nothing better than roasting marshmallows over a campfire, but did you know that Ohio EPA has regulations in regards to campfires and potentially local ordinances exist in regards to burning?
 



​As per Ohio EPA’s guidelines, bonfires, campfires and outdoor fireplace equipment are permissible if used for cooking, warmth, recreation, religious or ceremonial or similar purposes with the following guidelines as long as the:

• campfire is fueled with clean seasoned firewood, natural gas or other clean burning fuel.
• the campfire is not being used for  waste disposal.
• the total fuel area is no more than three feet in diameter and no higher than  two feet.

 
For more guidelines from the Environmental Protection Agency, visit http://epa.ohio.gov/portals/47/facts/openburn.pdf

Under Ohio Law, it is illegal to burn garbage, items made of rubber, grease, asphalt and petroleum, as well as dead animals. Also, burning household waste produces many toxic chemicals and is one of the largest known sources of dioxin in the nation.
 
So what can you do instead? Citizens are urged to reduce the overall amount of waste that is being generated in their household and learn how to possibly reuse their items in another way, besides burning. In terms of recycling, contacting your local waste disposal provider on their curb-side pickup policies and possible drop-off locations would aid you and others in how to dispose of bulky and the potential hazardous items.
 
Another option to reducing waste is composting! It is a great way to reduce your household waste such as yard trimmings and food scraps. The best part about compost is that you are able to create a natural fertilizer! For more information on composting, be sure to visit the following links:

• Warren Soil and Water Conservation District’s Composting page: https://www.warrenswcd.com/composting.html
• The Ohio State University’s Extension Factsheet on compost: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-34. 

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