City issues April open burning guidelines ahead of spring yard clean up season

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- As April approaches, St. Joseph residents may be looking to clean up their yards from fall and winter residue.

Residents may burn dry yard waste within city limits only during April and November, unless weather conditions or safety concerns require a temporary burn ban.

City officials said there are rules to follow when it comes to keeping property, neighbors and the community safe.

Fires are only allowed between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 1 through the 30, and must be in an upright container no larger than 55 gallons. A drum-size container constructed of wire mesh is allowed.

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

The City said any fires must be monitored at all times and be able to be put out, if needed. Firefighting materials like a garden hose or a container of water must be on site.

Fires must also be at least 15 feet from any building.

If weather conditions, such as high winds provide safety concerns to the community, if the public may be endangered or if open burning may create a health hazard, the fire chief or health director may invoke a temporary burn ban.

The fire department will also respond to open burning calls as non-emergency, unless a fire involves or threatens a structure.

A news release from the City said anyone who violates open burning rules and guidelines may receive a court summons for a misdemeanor.

Residents are encouraged to consider alternatives to burning. Mowing leaves into fine particles can act as a fertilizer for lawns, composting also creates nutrient-rich soil for gardens and chipping larger brush provides mulch for trees and shrubs.

The City said to only burn during the approved months. The open burning period will not be extended for weather-related holidays.