The seasonal “burn ban” lifts at the start of next month in Milton and beyond, giving people on eligible properties more but not unlimited options.

The State of Georgia’s Environmental Protection Division restricts outdoor burns between May 1 and September 30 in 54 counties including Milton’s own Fulton County. The idea is to lower the chance for wildfires (when the weather is warmer) and better overall air quality.

But things change on October 1. Starting on that date, which is a Wednesday this year, those who live on AG-1 zoned properties in Milton can do “open burns” if the opacity of the smoke it produces does not equal or exceed 40 percent. Those who do such burns should also:

• 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)
• Ensure that burn piles are at least 50 feet from any structure, clearing at least 25 feet around them that might burn
• Burn piles no more than 3 to 4 feet across, as these produce less smoke and are easier to contain
• Make sure these piles are dry and have minimal dirt (since moisture means more smoke)
• Burn on clear days, since smoke can stagnate when it is overcast
• 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
• Don’t use flammable liquids to start a fire
• 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

And even in AG-1 properties, people shouldn’t start an open burn before consulting 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.

“We greatly appreciate those residents who are safe, smart, and responsible when conducting open burns starting next month,” said Assistant Fire Marshal Andrew Kennedy. “A few small, simple common-sense measures can make a big difference in preventing significant and potentially devastating damage.”

Even after the “burn ban” lifts, people not on AG-1 zoned properties cannot burn material outside. In other words, their restrictions are year-round – which the exception of cooking and recreational fires. (To see how your property is zoned, see this map: https://www.miltonga.gov/home/showdocument?id=7776.)

And whatever your property’s zoning and whatever the time of year, the burning of treated wood, garbage, construction debris, and other non-vegetative items is prohibited.

If you have questions or who want more guidance on open burns, please contact the Milton Fire-Rescue Department by calling 678-242-2541 or e-mailing Fire.Marshal@miltonga.gov.