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1. Can I burn in the city of Athens?

Yes. If you follow the City Burn Ordinance and obtain a Burn Permit from the Fire Department. City of Athens Burn Ordinance

2. What can I burn?

The materials the can be burned are materials that grow naturally. For example, the following and other items:
- Brush
- Grass
- Leaves
- Limbs

There can no burning of paper cardboard, rubbish, household garbage or anything of the like. Even if it is contained in barrel or like container. It is against the law to burn these materials!

3. Where and when can I burn?

You must burn on your own property! You must be at least 50 feet from any structure and 50 feet from any property lines. You cannot burn before 8 a.m. or after 3 p.m.

4. How do I obtain a burn permit?

You must contact Athens Fire & Rescue by telephone at 256-233-8710 or by stopping by the administrative offices at Station 1 before any burning is to take place. Depending on the size, location, material being burned, and weather conditions, Athens Fire can approve or deny permission to burn. A permit is required for any burning done inside the city limits. Permits can be obtained for the hours of 8am-3:30pm any day of the week. Once issued, a permit can be revoked at any time if the Fire Department deems necessary.

5. Are commercial burn permits issued?

Yes, with stipulations. Any commercial burning must comply with regulations set forth by Athens Fire. All commercial permits are $25 and payable at Station 1. All commercial burn permit requests must be checked by a member of the Fire Marshals office for approval. Any commercial burning for land clearing or any other reason must meet the following for approval:                1. Material must be natural wood/vegetation.  NO paper, cardboard, trash, etc. 2. Must be at least 100ft from any structures or roadways. 3. Material MUST be in a pit with a blower or fan.