What materials are individual property owners allowed to burn outdoors?

Where not prohibited by local ordinance, leaf burning and burning of plant clippings and brush is allowed anywhere in the state, as long as weather conditions do not pose a fire hazard. However, leaf burning is discouraged because of the air pollution it causes and because of the benefits of composting and mulching with these materials.

Individual homeowners may burn small quantities of dry combustible rubbish such as paper, cardboard and/or clean untreated wood. Again, local ordinance can override this allowance. This is especially true in populated areas such as southeastern Wisconsin, where most municipalities have banned or severely limited open burning. Paper and cardboard can now be recycled in all communities, and recycling is the best disposal method for these items.

In either case, be sure to contact your local fire authority before you start burning to find out if you need to obtain a burning permit.

Show All Answers

1. Can I burn?
2. What kinds of materials may not be burned by individual property owners?
3. What materials are individual property owners allowed to burn outdoors?
4. What can individuals do instead of burning household and yard wastes?
5. It is illegal to use burn barrels to dispose of garbage?
6. Why must people get burning permits or licenses?
7. Can businesses, industries and municipalities open burn?