Peachtree City Fire Marshal John Dunlap is reminding residents that the season for outdoor debris burning with a permit is about to begin.
On Oct. 1 Peachtree City residents will once again be allowed to burn leaves and yard debris. Residents are reminded that in order to burn, a burn permit must be obtained, Dunlap said.
Burn permits can be obtained online at the city’s website (peachtree-city.org) or in person at Neely Fire Station, located at 105 N. Peachtree Parkway.
The decision as to whether or not burning is allowed is made by the fire marshal’s office and is posted at the city website by 8 a.m. daily. Permits are good only for the day they are issued. Permits are not issued for multiple days, nor can they issued in advance, Dunlap said.
“Residents can expect fewer burn days this year due to the extreme drought conditions,” said Dunlap. “Weather factors such as wind, humidity and temperature all play a role in determining whether or not it is safe to burn. Even though it may be a very nice day outside, low humidity, high temperatures and even the slightest wind can cause a fire to get out of control very quickly.”
The Peachtree City Fire Marshal’s Office is asking residents who burn to use extra caution while burning this year.
“This year’s drought has created extreme conditions in terms of dried lawns and ground cover. If possible, burn barrels are the best option. A fire is much more contained and less likely to spread,” said Dunlap.
“Also, keep fires as far away from greenbelt or wooded areas as possible. Dry ground cover can ignite easily and spread rapidly. Never leave a fire, no matter how small, unattended. Always have a method of extinguishment, preferably a charged garden hose, nearby and ready to use. It is a good idea to soak the area around your fire so it does not spread. Accelerants, such as gasoline, kerosene or lighter fluid may not be used to start a fire. Only leaves and yard debris may be burned. Trash, construction debris and such may not be burned.”
Dunlap also advised that all fires must be out by sunset and that resident not leave burning embers. The fire should be soaked, turned with a rake or shovel and cool to the touch before leaving it.
Fires used for cooking or recreational fire pits are permitted to be used without a burn permit and may occur after dark. Recreational fire pits may not be used for burning leaves and yard debris in lieu of obtaining a burn permit.
“Caution and common sense need to be used to be sure these fires do not get out of control. It is recommended that recreational fire pits not be used on a deck or under an overhang. They should be kept at least 25 feet from a house or building,” Dunlap said. “Avoid having them close to a greenbelt or wooded area, have a way of extinguishing the fire on hand, never leave a fire unattended and all fires should be out and cool to the touch before leaving them.”
Bonfires are not permitted unless approved by the fire marshal.
