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Gautier amends development code to allow open burning on parcels larger than 10 acres under state rules
Summary
The council approved text changes to the Unified Development Ordinance to permit open burning of tree limbs and debris on sites larger than 10 acres, subject to Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality regulations; the change reduces hauling burdens on large developments.
The Gautier City Council on June 20 approved an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) that allows open burning of tree limbs and debris on sites larger than 10 acres, provided the burning complies with Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) regulations.
Scott Anderson, the city’s planning director, told the council the change would add verbiage to Section 4.23.0.1 (land alterations and disturbance permit) so properties under 10 acres must still haul debris off-site and not burn, while sites greater than 10 acres may burn under MDEQ rules. Anderson said the requirement to haul smaller sites was burdensome for larger developments and that the amendment was drafted with input from the city manager and city attorney.
Council members discussed enforcement details, including an adjustment in the time allowed for hauling debris. Anderson said the city increased the allowable time from 48 hours to five days in the proposed text, and that the UDO contains other, higher-level provisions governing hauling and permit requirements. Council approved the amendment by motion and the mayor announced the motion carried.
Why it matters: the change alters how developers and property owners clear larger tracts in Gautier. Allowing state-regulated open burning for larger parcels could reduce private clearing costs, while keeping hauling requirements for smaller lots aims to limit smoke and safety concerns in denser areas.
Anderson said staff and the city attorney drafted the language and that the council could approve the amendment, modify it, or deny it. No public opposition was raised at the meeting. The amendment becomes part of the UDO and will be enforced through the city’s land-alteration permitting process.
