November open burning set to begin

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- As leaves continue to fall and the wind continues to blow, the City of St. Joseph is looking to remind residents about health and safety regulations when it comes to fall cleanup.

November is one of the city's approved months for open burning.

The city said residents who choose to burn must follow regulations to help prevent fires, protect neighboring properties and keep the community safe.

Fires are allowed only between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. and must be in an upright container no larger than 55 gallons; a drum-sized container constructed of wire mesh is also allowed.

Only one burn container per residence is allowed, and must only contain yard waste such as leaves, brush and logs. Trash, paper, lumber and building debris cannot be burned.

Fires must be supervised and must be easily put out, if needed. Firefighting materials, like a garden hose or a container of water, must be on site. Fires must be at least 15 feet from any building.

If weather conditions, like high winds, indicate the safety of the community or the public may be endangered or if open burning may create a health hazard, the fire chief or health director may invoke a temporary burning ban.

The St. Joseph Fire Department will respond to open burning calls as non-emergency, unless a fire is involved or threatens a structure. Any rule violations may result in a court summons for a misdemeanor.

Residents are also encouraged to consider alternatives to open burning, such as mowing leaves into fine particles, which can be utilized as lawn fertilizer. Additionally, composting creates nutrient-rich soil for gardens. Chipping larger brush provides mulch for trees and shrubs.