Open Burn

Outdoor Burning Information

In accordance with the Ohio Fire Code, the Clearcreek Fire District recognizes three types of outdoor burning activity - a Recreational Fire, an Open Burn, and a Bonfire.

• A Recreational Fire is an outdoor fire for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, or warmth purposes.
  • No trash or human-generated waste may be burned.
  • The total fuel area of the fire must be 3’ or less in diameter and 2’ or less in height.
  • The fire must be more than 25 feet from any structure.
  • A permit is not required for a recreational fire. However, please notify the Clearcreek Fire District each day of planned burning activity by calling (937) 748-2766.

• An Open Burn is an outdoor fire where products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air.
  • No trash or human-generated waste may be burned.
  • The total fuel area of the fire must be 3’ or less in diameter and 3’ or less in height.
  • The fire must be more than 50 feet from any structure.
  • A permit is not required for an open burn fire. However, please notify the Clearcreek Fire District each day of planned burning activity by calling (937) 748-2766.

• A Bonfire is an outdoor fire utilized for ceremonial purposes.
  • No trash or human-generated waste may be burned.
  • The total fuel area of the fire must be 5’ or less in diameter and 5’ or less in height.
  • The fire must be more than 50 feet from any structure.
  • Bonfires require a permit from the Clearcreek Fire District.
  • The permit can be obtained by calling the Clearcreek Fire District at (937) 748-2766, Monday – Friday between 8:00am and 5:00pm.
  • We request you call at least 2 days prior to a bonfire to allow enough time to process the required permit.

All outdoor burning requires provisions to be in place to prevent fire spread (water hose, fire extinguisher, etc.).

All outdoor burning activity must be attended by a person at all times. Any outdoor fire found unattended will be extinguished and any issued permits will be revoked.

If at any time a fire is reported, fire apparatus will be dispatched to investigate the situation. Fires that generate or add to a hazardous or objectionable situation or create a nuisance, will be extinguished. This includes any fires that fall within the parameters outlined above. 

In some instances, due to extreme weather conditions and/or an increased threat of fire spread, the Fire Chief may issue an order prohibiting all burning activity within the jurisdiction for a specified time. 

If you should have any questions, please feel free to call (937) 748-2766, Monday – Friday between 8:00am and 5:00pm.