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Officials remind residents that open burning requires a city permit after recent complaints
Summary
Staff reported multiple complaints about burning trash, said the Collaborative typically issues warnings and cited repeat offenders, and noted the Climate Collaborative has local authority to issue citations while the fire department responds but does not issue burning citations.
City staff told the Evansville Climate Collaborative that the agency has received several complaints in the past two months about open burning of trash and has issued warning letters and at least one citation.
Laura Norville said state and local laws "allow only clean dry wood and paper to be burned ... and that we require city residents to get a burn permit, which we issue on an annual basis for recreational use." She said staff typically respond to complaints with a conversation and a warning because many residents are unaware of open-burning rules, but repeat offenders can be cited.
On enforcement authority, Norville said the local ordinance designates the Climate Collaborative as the agency with the authority to issue citations for open burning; the fire department commonly responds to incidents for public safety but does not have citation authority.
Why it matters: Improper burning can create air-quality, nuisance and public-safety issues. The Collaborative reminded residents of permit requirements and encouraged use of the city's website for rules and permitting information.
What’s next: Staff will continue to respond to complaints primarily with education and warnings, escalating to citations for repeat violations and coordinating with the fire department on responses.
