News

REMINDER: Leaf burning is prohibited - Statewide
Thursday, November 6, 2008

With autumn leaves beginning to fall, DNREC is reminding residents that burning leaves is prohibited statewide Leaf burning produces a considerable amount of airborne particulate matter, carbon monoxide and at least seven carcinogens. Some of these chemicals react with nitrogen oxides in the air to produce ground-level ozone, a respiratory irritant particularly dangerous to children and the elderly. In addition to the leaf burning ban, burning refuse such as old lumber, trash or garbage, grass and tree stumps is also prohibited year-round. Campfires, cooking fires and bonfires that meet size restrictions are legal, unless prohibited by local ordinances. The burning of cut or fallen branches, limbs or shrubbery trim from a residence is allowed daily, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. from Oct. 1 to April 30, except when the state fire marshal issues a ban. For more information on the statewide leaf burning ban and air quality, contact Tom Postell at 739-9402. Illegal burning can be reported by calling (800) 662-8802. Delaware homeowners have several options to help manage leaves and other yard waste. Citizens can compost, use a mulching mower, or take leaves and other yard waste to a commercial or DNREC yard waste drop-off site in New Castle County. In addition homeowners can arrange to hire a landscaper or commercial hauler to remove yard waste from their properties.