It’s aim is to reduce high ozone levels in the summer.
Frederick, Md. (KM) – The annual open burning ban is now in effect until August 31st.
The Frederick County Health Department says open burning permits will not be issued during that time.. The prohibition does not apply to small recreational fires such as campfires, barbecues and gas grills.
The annual burn ban, which extends throughout the Metropolitan Washington Air Quality Region, is required by Maryland Air Quality regulations which first went into affect in June, 1995. They’re designed to reduce high ozone levels during the summer months. The ban is not related to rainfall.
Any open burning in Frederick County requires a permit from the Health Department. Violators of the open burning ban, or those who burn without a permit, are subject to fines of up to $500 under Frederick County’s code, and up to $25,000 under Maryland State Regulations.
The burning of household trash or rubbish is not permitted at any time of the year, according to the Health Department.
For more information, contact the Community Services Office at the Health Department’s Environmental Health Division at 301-600-1717.
By Kevin McManus