With the autumn come lots of fallen leaves.  Many county residents outside of the municipal areas like to get rid of their leaves by burning them.   The Ohio EPA regulates open burning in Ohio and provides guidance for what may be burned and where.  The Fairfield Department of Health would like to remind residents that when they burn trash outdoors, not only is it illegal but the potential health costs could be great.  Depending on what you are burning, open fires can release toxic fumes.  According to the EPA, leaves and plant materials send millions of spores into the air when they catch fire.  Pollutants released by open burning also make it more difficult to maintain air quality standards.  The gases released can also harm buildings by corroding metal siding and damaging paint. 

     Check the Ohio EPA website, www.epa.state.oh.us  for regulations before your burn.  Remember that some materials may not be burned at all including garbage, dead animals, and materials containing rubber, grease, and asphalt.  Open burning is not allowed within the boundaries of a municipal corporation.  Even in areas where open burning is permitted, no open burning can take place within 1,000 feet of an inhabited building.