Effective Tuesday, October 1, Gordon County residents will once again be permitted to conduct outdoor burning as the seasonal burn ban is lifted.
Fire Chief Heath Derryberry reminds the community that only hand-piled natural vegetation—such as leaves, limbs, and other yard debris—may be burned. The burning of household trash, plastics, treated wood, or any non-vegetative materials remains strictly prohibited.
Burn Permit Guidelines
No permit is required for hand-piled natural vegetation.
Agricultural burns or machine-piled vegetation do require a permit, which can be obtained through the Georgia Forestry Commission.
Safety Precautions for Outdoor Burning
Officials emphasize the importance of fire safety when conducting any outdoor burning:
Never leave a fire unattended.
Keep water and basic firefighting tools, such as a shovel or rake, nearby.
Avoid burning on windy or excessively dry days.
Fully extinguish fires before leaving the site by stirring ashes and ensuring they are completely cold.
“Your cooperation helps protect lives, property, and natural resources,” Derryberry said. “Please act responsibly when burning outdoors.”
For more information, contact Gordon County Fire Rescue at 706-629-8851 or the Georgia Forestry Commission at 1-800-GA-TREES (428-7337). In case of emergency, always dial 911.
