Firefighters had to respond twice in one day after reports of people burning wood despite Ohio’s spring burn ban, a reminder that the seasonal restriction is now in effect across the state.
The first call came around 10 a.m., when a Wheelersburg resident contacted 911 to report people filling the foundation of a house with wood and setting it on fire, even though the burn ban was in place.
Porter Township Fire Department responded to the scene, extinguished the fire, and explained the rules of the burn ban to those responsible.
But the issue didn’t end there.
Around 5 p.m. that same day, another caller reported that wood was being burned again, sending smoke through the neighborhood. Porter Township firefighters were contacted again and said they would investigate the situation.
Why the burn ban exists
Ohio’s spring burn ban runs from March 1 through May 31 each year. During that time, open burning is prohibited between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in most areas.
The rule primarily applies to unincorporated areas outside city or village limits, where dry leaves, grass, and windy conditions can quickly turn a small fire into a fast-moving wildfire.
What you cannot burn
During the restricted hours, it is illegal to burn:
- Leaves
- Brush or yard waste
- Trash or debris
- Any material in burn barrels
Even properly contained fires are not allowed during those hours.
What is still allowed
Small campfires and cooking fires are generally permitted, but they must be attended at all times and properly extinguished.
Fire officials say the spring burn ban exists because most wildfires in Ohio happen during these months, when dry vegetation and windy conditions make fires spread rapidly.
Residents are urged to follow the rules, as violating the burn ban can lead to fines and emergency responses that tie up local firefighters.
