With the statewide burn ban now lifted, Georgia residents are encouraged to review safety guidelines before burning yard debris or hosting outdoor fires.
The annual ban, in place from May 1 through September 30, has ended, allowing the burning of hand-piled natural vegetation—such as leaves, twigs, and small limbs—in unincorporated areas without a permit. Debris piles must be less than three feet wide and under two feet tall to qualify.
State officials stress that safety rules still apply. The Georgia Forestry Commission reminds residents to follow the “S-S-T-A-R” guidelines:
Space: Maintain at least 25 feet between the fire and woodlands, and 50 feet from any structure.
Time: Outdoor burning is allowed only between sunrise and sunset.
Attendance: A responsible adult must remain on-site until the fire is completely out.
Reasonable precautions: Have tools or equipment on hand to keep the fire contained.
Residents are also reminded that burning household garbage, lumber, plastic, and other prohibited materials is illegal. A full list of permitted burn materials is available through the Environmental Protection Division.
For larger burns or permit requirements, the Georgia Forestry Commission provides additional guidance on its website.
Walker County follows all state burning regulations. Burn permits for those inside the city limits of LaFayette, Rossville, Chickamauga, and Lookout Mountain must be issued by the respective city. Further information can be found on Walker County’s burning rules page.