To burn or not to burn

Due to the construction of the new sewer plant and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations, Ogden will no longer utilize the town brush pile.

The new City of Ogden burning ordinance recently established, limits the days and hours that landscape wastes can be burned. Periods of open burning are restricted yearly to:

April 15 - May 15

10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

October 1 - November 15

10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Any burning of landscape wastes shall not commence before 10 a.m. and must be completely extinguished each day by 8 p.m. in the spring and fall.

When burning landscape waste, common sense is your best ally. Following are some recommended safety tips:

• Note the wind direction

• Note the location of the fires in respect to structures and other flammable material.

• Avoid burning during dry conditions

• Note the direction smoke will travel

Avoid using accelerants such as gasoline and other fuels to start the fire.

The Ordinance also states:

A minimum distance of 25 feet should be kept between the fire and any buildings. If the pile to be burned is larger than three feet in diameter and two feet in height, the distance should be increased to 50 feet. It is suggested that a source of water be available, such as a connected garden hose, bucket of water, or an approved fire extinguisher.

The fire shall be attended at all times by a competent person until the fire has been extinguished.

Read more in the Oct. 18 issue of The Ogden Reporter.