Troup County announced on Thursday that it is officially lifting the outdoor burning ban due to the recent increased amount of rainfall. According to a press release from the county, the lift of the ban was effective Friday. 

While it is customary for the “burn ban” to be lifted on the first day of October, the county made the decision earlier this month to extend the burning ban until drought conditions improved due to safety concerns. Due to the increased amount of rainfall this week, drought conditions have improved, thus allowing the county to officially lift the burning ban on Friday, Oct. 18.

However, all outdoor burning must have a permit issued by the Georgia Forestry Commission and is good only for burning natural vegetative materials. It is unlawful to burn man made materials, such as tires, shingles, plastics, lumber, household garbage, etc. Additionally, burning must be attended by an adult who must be watching the fire at all times. Citizens should never leave a fire unattended. The fire must be a minimum of 50 feet away from any structure, vehicle or fixed flammable object. 

It shall also be at least 25 feet away from the adjacent property line. All fires must be extinguished thoroughly when no longer in attended use or one hour before dark. Therefore, a garden hose, water supply or extinguisher must be readily available at the site of the fire.

In the press release, the county said it is also important to note that citizens are responsible for their fire(s) and its smoke. Even if all guidelines for burning are followed, there may be a requirement to extinguish the fire if it adversely interferes with another person’s enjoyment of life, use of property or if someone with a health problem is affected.

The Troup County Fire Department follows guidance provided by the Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the National Weather Service