How to use the open burning lookup
- Enter your 5-digit ZIP code. The tool uses it to find your state.
- Pick what you want to burn: brush, yard waste, leaves, treated or painted wood, or household trash.
- Press Look up to see the state-level posture and a short note on how rules work there, plus a search link for local burn permits.
How it's calculated
This isn't a formula; it's a rules matrix. Each state has a summary posture for three groups of material: natural yard debris (brush, grass, leaves), treated or painted wood, and household trash. Each posture is one of likely allowed with conditions, permit likely required or generally prohibited. County burn bans, red-flag fire warnings, city ordinances and air-quality districts can all be stricter than the state summary, and they change day to day.
Worked example
ZIP 62701 (Springfield, Illinois) with leaves returns Permit likely required, with a note that many Illinois localities ban open burning. The same ZIP with household trash returns Generally prohibited, as it does in every state in the matrix.
FAQ
Can I burn household trash in my backyard?
In practice, no. Burning household trash is prohibited or heavily restricted across the US because it releases toxic smoke. Use your local trash or recycling service.
Do I need a permit to burn brush?
Often, yes. Many states and counties require a permit or allow brush burning only on certain days or outside burn bans. Check with your county fire department.
Where do I find today's burn ban status?
Your county fire department, state forestry agency or local emergency management office posts current burn bans and red-flag warnings.