Georgia’s annual ban on outdoor burning will end September 30 in 54 counties, primarily in the northern half of the state. From May 1 through the end of September, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division mandates the restrictions to protect air quality from emissions that may increase ground level ozone.
While burning a pile of crispy fall leaves outdoors is a must for many this time of year, a burn permit from the Georgia Forestry Commission is always required before lighting that first match. Weather conditions and predictions in each county are carefully considered before a permit can be issued. “Our first concern is always safety,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Protection Chief Frank Sorrells. “Recent rainfall from tropical storms have provided sufficient moisture in some parts of the state to lower the overall fire danger, however there are some pockets of dryness in the northwest part of the state and in the greater Savannah area.”