To the Citizens of Pickens County:
It is that time of year where most are waiting for the lifting of the burn ban. To some it is a chance to clean up yards and be able to burn the fall leaves that are already beginning to fall. Then there are others that have been clearing land and getting rid of storm debris that were left from summer storms that moved through the area.
The Burn Ban will be lifted October 1st. I want to take this time to give you the rules and Regulations for burning so that everyone is safe and know the rules.
1. Small Natural Debris: NO PERMIT REQUIRED. The burning of yard debris such as leaves, sticks, twigs etc. does not require a permit. Somone must remain with the fire at all times until it is out.
There should be a water hose or other means of extinguishment close by and the fire must be at least 10ft from an adjacent property line.
2. Warming Fires: NO PERMIT REQUIRED.
Controlled fires in barrels are most common at job sites, waiting areas for hayrides, and other outdoor activities. These type fires must have a screen wire or other type of spark arrestor to prevent large sparks from getting into outdoor vegetation and starting a grass fire.
3. Storm Debris: PERMIT REQUIRED by County Fire Marshal. Storm debris are fires that include large tree limbs and tree trunks smaller than 4ft in diameter. The property must have a cleared area around the pile so fire doesn’t escape. Someone must remain with the fire at all times. There must be a method of extinguishment close by and the fire must be out by dark.
4. Large Land Clearing: PERMIT REQUIRED by Georgia Forestry or County Fire Marshal. Land clearing fires are those where the property is being cleared by machine and are usually large. Someone must remain with the fire at all times.
There must be a method of extinguishment close by, such as a loader, dozer etc. to control and extinguish the fire if needed. The fire must be out by dark.
It is the rules of EPD/EPA that a fire must to be out by dark. The only exceptions are for fire pit with spark arrestor on top, cooking fire, campfire or warming fire. The hours of burning are sunrise to sunset.
It is the responsibility of the person wishing to burn to know and understand the rules and regulations.
The Pickens County Fire Marshal and Fire Chief will be responsible for enforcement of these rules for fire safety of our citizens and their property. We will issue warnings as necessary to ensure we have a safe burning season.
Failure to comply with the rules for burning can result in fines. We ask that you keep Neighbors in mind while burning as we have Residents that have Medical Issues when they encounter smoke.
Please know the rules and burn safe!
Shane Callahan, Pickens County Fire Marshal
Tim Prather, Pickens County Fire Chief
