Open Burning Guidelines
To protect our community and prevent uncontrolled fires, the Rock Community Fire Protection District requires all residents to follow these safety standards before burning.
1. Check the Weather
Burning is only permitted when the following weather conditions are met. You must verify both of the following before burning:
- Humidity: Must be above 50%.
- Wind Gusts: Must not exceed 15 mph.
2. Prepare Your Site & Supervision
Safety starts with a proper setup. Ensure your burn site meets these requirements:
- Containment: Fires must be in a contained area, such as a designated fire pit or a cleared 4' x 4' area free of debris.
- Clearance: Maintain a minimum distance of 15–25 feet from any structures, fences, or low-hanging trees.
- Water Source: A charged garden hose (turned on and pressurized) or a fire extinguisher must be within immediate reach.
- Supervision: A responsible adult must remain with the fire at all times until it is completely extinguished.
3. Prohibited Materials
The burning of waste from commercial businesses, industry, factories, or demolition sites is strictly prohibited.
DO NOT BURN:
Hazardous Materials: Styrofoam, petroleum-based products, and asbestos-contaminated materials.
Synthetic Products: Tires, rubber, and plastics.
Treated Wood: Chemically treated pallets, decking, or construction lumber.
Scrap Metal: Any metallic objects or materials.
4. Notify the District
If all conditions are met, call 636-296-2211, ext. 700 to notify us. Please provide your address and a reliable contact phone number.
Burn Day Safety Checklist
Run through this list one last time before you burn:
[ ] Weather Conditions: Is the humidity 50% or higher and wind gusts under 15 mph?
[ ] Water Ready: Is your garden hose connected & turned on or is a fire extinguisher within immediate reach?
[ ] Safe Distance: Is your burn site at least 15–25 feet away from all structures, fences, and overhanging trees?
[ ] Material Check: Have you confirmed you are not burning trash, plastic, treated wood, or commercial waste?
[ ] Department Notified: Have you called 636-296-2211 (Ext. 700) to notify about the open burning?