Debris Burning
Debris burning is Georgia's #1 cause of wildfire. It accounts for over 50 percent of all wildfires in the state.
Debris burning is categorized into different types:
- Yard leaf piles
- Agricultural
- Forestry site preparation
- Construction land clearing
- Escaped prescribed burning
Burning yard leaf piles is the most common cause of wildfire. The Georgia Forestry Commission has a wildfire prevention initiative to reach debris burners and educate them on proper debris burning techniques.
All debris burning requires a burn permit with the exception of agricultural fields or pastures, which require notification. The burning of household garbage is prohibited and not permitted by GFC. A major cause of debris burn wildfires is not obtaining a permit and burning with improper weather conditions.
Permits are obtained by calling your local GFC county office or online.