No, open burning in Taiwan is prohibited under the Air Pollution Control Act and local ordinances, with exceptions for agricultural waste under strict permits. The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) enforces these rules, and violators face fines up to NT$200,000. Recent 2026 amendments tighten enforcement, particularly in high-pollution zones like Taichung and Kaohsiung.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Taiwan
- Permit Requirement: Agricultural burning requires prior approval from local EPA offices or county governments, with seasonal restrictions during harvest periods.
- Prohibited Materials: Burning plastic, rubber, or construction waste is illegal under all circumstances, as outlined in the Waste Disposal Act.
- Penalties: Non-compliance triggers fines (NT$10,000–NT$200,000) and potential criminal liability under the Criminal Code for severe violations.
Local governments, such as Taipei City’s Department of Environmental Protection, conduct unannounced inspections, leveraging real-time air quality monitoring to identify offenders. The EPA’s 2026 enforcement plan prioritizes urban and industrial zones, where particulate matter (PM2.5) levels frequently exceed standards. Violators may also face mandatory community service or equipment confiscation.