State of Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Forest Environment It's the Law

Open Burning

Laws

1. Under the authority of the Department of Environmental Management, open burning of any type requires a written permit issued by your local Fire Department. Contact the Dunn's Corners Fire Department on their non-emergency line (322-0577) to inquiry about a burning permit.
2. In all instances fires must be attended until fully extinguished.
3. The material to be burned shall be clean brush or untreated wood.
4. Absolutely no hazardous materials.
5. Permits can only be issued to residential homeowners. Commercial and industrial operations are not permitted to burn.

Penalties for Violations

1. Fine of not less than $10.00 nor more than $100.00 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days nor less than 10 days or both.
2. Liability for all damages and suppression cost in fighting a resulting fire.

Burning in Rubbish Burners and Outside Fireplaces

Laws

1. Allowed without a written permit before 10:00 AM and after 5:00 PM from March 15th to May 15th.
2. With a written permit between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM unless rain is falling or snow covers the ground.
3. In either or both instances fires must be attended until fully extinguished.
4. This applies to rubbish burners and outside fireplaces only. Any other open burning requires the written permit as stated above in "OPEN BURNING".

Penalties for Violations

1. Fine of not less than $10.00 nor more than $100.00 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days nor less than 10 days or both.
2. Liability for all damages and suppression cost in fighting a resulting fire.

YOUR COOPERATION WILL BE APPRECIATED.