Open Burning
Open burning is the process of burning any materials where the products of combustion pass directly into the open air without going through a chimney or stack. Open burning is NOT allowed in the city limits of Newton. This includes, but is not limited to: burning leaves or brush piles, garbage, tires or rubber products, paint or used oil, plastic, and any household material that can be recycled.
The Newton Fire Department has the primary responsibility for enforcement of open burning regulations. Any open burning that is determined to be harmful to the health of residents or is a hazardous condition can be subject to a fine. Fines range from $50 to $500 plus court costs depending on the number of offensives.
Burning Landscape Waste
Trees, tree trimming, branches, stumps, brush, weeds, leaves, shrubbery, and yard trimming CAN NOT be burned in the city limits of Newton. The intent of this section is to keep recreational fires from creating large amounts of smoke from green vegetation. It is important to remember that recreational fires allow the burning of naturally grown wood. i.e. trees, tree trimmings, and branches. The main difference is fresh cut trees (wood), tree trimmings, and branches that are not properly dried create lots of smoke. If you are going to burn, the fire department asks you to be respectful of your neighbors. If the smoke from your fire is drifting into the neighbor’s house consider waiting until the conditions change.
Recreational Fires
Recreational fires are permitted as long as they are a minimum of 25 feet away from a structure or combustible material. Recreational fires must not be larger than four feet in diameter. Flames need to be less than two feet high. The entire fire must be contained in a non-combustible ring. Make sure to continually attend the fire and not to have a recreational fire if the wind speed is over fifteen miles per hour. Do not burn anything but naturally grown wood that has been dried and cut. If any neighbor experiences breathing or physical discomfort, or has the possibility of experiencing health issues, due to the smoke, the fire must be extinguished.
Portable Outdoor Fireplaces/Open-Flame Cooking Devices
Portable outdoor fireplaces, charcoal burners, and other open-flame cooking devices must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not operate within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices cannot be operated on balconies or within ten feet of combustible construction.