Open burn season – also known as backyard burn season – opened in Santa Cruz County today.
However, burns are not permitted today because of weather conditions.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection declared burn season from Dec. 1, 2009 – April 30, 2010 in Santa Cruz County.
Open burning can only be conducted on designated burn days as prescribed by the Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control District. Burn days are broadcast over local radio stations or by calling 1-800-225-2876.
Before starting to burn, check with your local fire department to find out if a permit is required. Burning out of season could result in a citation and being liable for all suppression costs.
Open burn season regulations:
- Only yard trimmings and brush originating on the property of one or two family dwellings may be burned.
- Piles can be up to 4-feet in diameter
- No waste like household garbage, tires, construction material, plastic, tar paper, or poison oak is allowed.
- An area within 10 feet of the outer edge of the burn pile must be kept clear of flammable material and vegetation.
- A garden hose connected to a water supply should be ready for use at the burn site. An adult with a shovel should supervise the burning material until the fire is extinguished. No burning after dark.
- Open burning can be immediately discontinued by Cal Fire is its determined that it constitutes a hazardous condition.
- Burning in an incinerator is prohibited.
