Starting May 1, 2025, Georgia’s annual summer burn ban goes into effect across 54 counties to help protect air quality and reduce wildfire risks. The ban, which runs through September 30th, prohibits most outdoor burning, including the burning of yard and land-clearing debris due to its impact on ozone levels, particularly in urban areas. As a reminder, trash/waste is never permitted to be burned at any time.
Counties affected include Chattooga, Catoosa, Cherokee, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Walker, and others across North and Central Georgia. Outside of these areas, burning is still allowed –only under certain weather and safety conditions. Most areas require burn permits.
Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo noted an increase in wildfires this spring and urged residents to follow safety rules and stay alert to fire conditions. Burn times, spacing, supervision, and suppression tools are now legally required for permitted fires in non-restricted counties.
More information is available at GaTrees.org.