No, open burning in Mexico is broadly prohibited under federal environmental law, with exceptions tightly controlled by SEMARNAT and local authorities. While agricultural burning may be permitted under specific permits, urban or waste burning is illegal nationwide, facing fines up to 50,000 UDI (≈$35,000 USD) under the 2023 General Law on Climate Change. Enforcement has intensified ahead of 2026’s stricter air quality compliance deadlines.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Mexico
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Federal Prohibition: The Ley General del Equilibrio Ecológico y la Protección al Ambiente (LGEEPA) bans open burning of urban waste, plastics, and non-agricultural materials, enforced by SEMARNAT. Violations trigger administrative sanctions under NOM-085-SEMARNAT-2011 (air quality standards).
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Agricultural Exceptions: Controlled burning of crop residues requires prior authorization from SEMARNAT or state environmental agencies (e.g., CDMX’s Secretaría del Medio Ambiente), limited to pre-harvest periods and low-wind conditions. Non-compliance risks revocation of farming permits.
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Local Variations: Municipalities like Monterrey and Guadalajara enforce additional bans via Programas para la Gestión Integral de Residuos, imposing stricter penalties. The 2024 Plan Nacional de Calidad del Aire mandates phased elimination of agricultural burning by 2026, aligning with WHO guidelines.