Outdoor Burn Ban Begins Today In Frederick County

All outdoor burning is prohibited until late August.Frederick, Md (KM) Today begins the annual burn ban in Frederick County and the rest of the Metropolitan Washington Area. The Health Department says that means all forms of outdoor burning are prohibited through August 31st.The ban is required by the Maryland  State Air Quality Regulations and is designed to reduce the ozone levels which occur during the summer; and that means cleaner air for residents. Health Department officials say the  ban, which went into effect in June, 1995, is not related to rainfall.Violators of  the burn ban could face fines of up to $500 under Frederick County’s code, and up to $25,000 under Maryland State Regulations. The burning of household trash is not permitted at any time of the year..The Health  Department says ban does not apply to small recreational fires such as campfires, barbecues and gas grills.For more information on the burn ban contact the Health Department’s Environmental Health Division at 301-600-1717.By Kevin McManus