It is strictly regulated.
Open burning in Georgia is legal only under stringent conditions enforced by the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Permits are mandatory for most burns, with exceptions for recreational fires under 3 feet in diameter. Violations incur fines up to $25,000 under the Georgia Air Quality Act, and local ordinances—such as those in metro Atlanta—may impose additional restrictions. The EPD’s 2026 compliance framework tightens oversight, requiring real-time reporting for certain burns to curb air pollution.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Georgia
- Permit Requirements: A permit from the Georgia EPD is required for most open burns, including land clearing, silviculture, and waste disposal. Agricultural burns may qualify for exemptions but must still comply with notification protocols.
- Prohibited Materials: Burning household garbage, tires, treated wood, and construction debris is illegal statewide. Only vegetative materials (e.g., leaves, branches) may be burned, and even then, only under specific conditions.
- Local Restrictions: Counties like Fulton, DeKalb, and Cobb enforce stricter rules, including burn bans during high ozone or wind conditions. Violations may trigger additional penalties beyond state fines.