Burn ban lifted: What Macon-Bibb residents need to know

The annual Georgia burn ban has officially lifted, but before you light that pile of leaves or yard debris, there are a few important rules to know.

Residential outdoor burning is permitted in Macon-Bibb County from October 1 through April 30, but residents must obtain a burn permit each day they plan to burn.

Burning is allowed from 9:00 a.m. until sunset, and fires must be completely extinguished before dark with no remaining smoldering material.

Residents may only burn natural vegetative materials from their own property, on their own property. Burn piles cannot exceed 6 feet by 6 feet by 3 feet and must be at least 50 feet away from structures and property lines.

A competent adult must monitor the fire at all times, and a working garden hose or another reliable method of extinguishing the fire must be nearby.

Residents should not burn on windy days when winds exceed 10 mph or when weather conditions could cause smoke to remain close to the ground.

Materials that cannot be burned include building materials, plastics, furniture, clothing, rubber or tires, garbage, and boxes.

Get your permit

A burn permit is required each day you plan to burn. Permits are only valid for the day they are issued.

Residents can apply for a permit through the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department's online burn permit system.

Commercial operators and those conducting air curtain burns must have a site visit completed before a permit can be issued. To begin that process, call 478-751-2700.

Following these rules helps protect your property, your neighbors, and Macon-Bibb's firefighters while allowing residents to safely dispose of appropriate yard debris during burn season.