Starting October 1, the seasonal “burn ban” will be lifted in Milton as well as many places elsewhere in Georgia.

This annual turning-of-the-page does not mean unlimited burning will be allowed anywhere or at any time. Whatever the calendar says, those who don’t live in AG-1 zoned properties cannot burn material outside at any time of year (except for cooking or recreational fires). (To learn how your property is zoned, check this map: https://www.miltonga.gov/home/showdocument?id=7776.) You also can never burn treated wood, garbage, construction debris, and other non-vegetative items wherever you live in Milton.

Still, some things will change beginning October 1 on AG-1 zoned properties in Milton. People there can again do an “open burn” if the resulting smoke’s opacity is not equal to or greater than 40 percent. They should also be mindful to: 

• Set up burn piles at least 50 feet from any structure, clearing at least 25 feet around them that might burn
• Have the right tools handy like protective equipment and a rake, shovel, hose and/or extinguisher (in case you need to douse the flames quickly)
• Burn smaller piles, generally no more than 3 to 4 feet across, as these produce less smoke and are easier to contain
• Make sure the piles are dry and have minimal dirt (since moisture means more smoke)
• Burn on clear days, since smoke can stagnate when its overcast
• Don’t use flammable liquids to start a fire
• Check the wind, which can quickly disperse both smoke and flames when it’s stronger
• Burn during the day rather than early-morning or at night, when smoke tends to linger
• Let your neighbors know if you’re planning to burn, then be ready to douse your fire if it causes them problems
• Never leave a fire unattended

Before doing an open burn in agricultural-zoned (AG-1) properties, residents should check the Georgia Forestry Commission’s fire danger rating map (http://weather.gfc.state.ga.us/Maps/fd.gif). If the daily rating is 3, 4, or 5 (when the chances of fires spreading is higher), you should not burn outside. The “burn ban” – and, with it, additional restrictions on open burning – will resume May 1 across 54 Georgia counties in an effort to curb wildfires and help with air quality.

Those with questions or who want more guidance can contact the Milton Fire-Rescue Department by calling 678-242-2541 or e-mailing Fire.Marshal@miltonga.gov.