Spring restrictions in effect for outdoor burning

Springtime restrictions are back in effect for outdoor burning in Kentucky.

From now through April, open burning within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland area is allowed only in the evening hours between 6 pm and 6 am.

With warming temperatures, people are getting outdoors and cleaning up their property, but the restriction is in place because of the large amount of dead leaves and dried vegetation, especially along treelines. A few sparks and a gusty spring wind make for an especially hazardous situation for a rapidly spreading brush fire to occur.

In addition, Kentucky has laws all year long to protect public health from outdoor or open burning. Before you light a burn pile or barrel, make sure you are doing so in a safe and legal manner.

Most materials are illegal to burn outdoors because they emit harmful chemicals and air pollutants. Plastics, food scraps, treated or painted wood, tires, and most household trash items are illegal to dispose of by burning.

You can see Kentucky's official list of banned materials for outdoor burning here .