Back

Open Burns

Information on Open Burns

Weather may dictate whether open burning can be conducted safely. Open Burning is not recommended in climates where vegetation may be dry.  Open Burning is also not recommended during windy conditions.

The Utah Fire Marshal may invoke a ‘Burn Ban’ if conditions become unsafe for open burning.  Orem Fire Department will keep the public informed if a ‘Burn Ban’ has gone into effect.

You may also visit State Fire Marshal | Utah.

Open Burn Window and Regulations

The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued new rules for open burning.

Open burning is regulated by the Division of Air Quality (DAQ). There are statewide rules in place that regulate open burning activities to help minimize emissions and ensure that the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are met. Recent modifications to these rules change the open burn periods and include a statewide requirement to obtain a permit from the local fire department prior to burning.

Applicants who live in the City of Orem are required to complete the open burn permit application on the DAQ Website or here is the direct link to the form. After the application is completed and submitted, a copy of the application will be sent electronically to the Orem Fire Department, now the permit is valid.

Residential burn season for The City of Orem starts on April 1st  and ends on May 31st and in the fall beginning September 15th thru October 31st.

  1. Farmers have no changes.
  1. Spring Open Burn window is March 30 to May 30th.
  1. Fall Open Burn window is September 15 to October 30th.
  1. Anyone wanting a permit needs to go to airquality.utah.gov/Compliance/OpenBurning/index.htm  and apply for a permit from the DAQ. (it will then be forwarded to us)
  1. Clearing index must be at least 500 to burn  (permit holder must check on the day the permit is for, if its below 500 the permit is void)
  1.  It is no longer legal for anyone to burn anything related to property development, even trees and brush.
  1. No one is allowed to burn trash, dimensional lumber, tires etc.

Can i have a fire in my backyard?

Yes, recreational fires are permitted year round, although there are rules that must be followed.

  1. The fire must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material
  2. The fire pit should not exceed 3 feet in diameter
  3. There must be a mean of extinguishment present, such as a garden hose
  4. If the fire becomes a nuisance and/or the fire department is contacted, the fire must be extinguished
  5. The fire must be constantly monitored by an adult
  6. The property owner is responsible for any damage that results from the use of a recreational fire
  7. The fire must be completely extinguished and not allowed to smolder after use.
  8. Trash, yard waste, hazardous items, building materials may not be burned.