Open Burn

Definition
Open Burning is the burning of materials wherein products of combustion are emitted directly into the ambient air without passing through a stack or chimney from an enclosed chamber.  Open burn does not include recreational fires, barbecue grills, or the use of portable outdoor fireplaces.  

No authorization shall be given for any open burning within the City of Dodge City, except for grass, leaves and twigs which are accumulated as a result of routine lawn care on residential property.

To get permission to do an open burn within the city limits of Dodge City call City Fire Station 1 at 620-225-8187.

General Guidelines 
The following guidelines shall be utilized when a request for an open burn is made.
  • During daylight hours only and on the same day as permission is given.
  • Wind must remain under 15MPH
  • Burn shall not be less than 25 feet from structures.
  • Pile size should not be greater than 3 ft in diameter or 2 ft in height. 
  • All burns must be constantly attended
  • A garden hose to a water supply, a portable fire extinguisher with a minimum of 4-A rating, or other approved fire extinguishing equipment shall be on the burn site and available for immediate utilization until the fire is extinguished.
Permission to burn is on a one day basis.  If you need to burn multiple days you have to call each day you plan to burn to be sure conditions are safe to do so.  
Extinguishment authority:  
Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the Dodge City Fire Department is authorized to order the extinguishment of the open burning operation.  National Fire Code section 307.3