Delaware County Council Enacts 30-Day Countywide Burn Ban

Released: November 7, 2024

Delaware County Council Enacts 30-Day Countywide Burn Ban in Response to Increased Fire Risk

Delaware County Council has voted to pass Resolution #2024-3, establishing a temporary, countywide ban on open burning. The burn ban takes effect on November 7, 2024 and will remain in place for 30 days unless extended.

This proactive measure, passed by unanimous vote during the November 6, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, responds to heightened wildfire risks due to ongoing dry conditions, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures, which have significantly increased fire danger across the region.

The burn ban was recommended by Delaware County’s District Forester, Richard J. Hartlieb Jr., on behalf of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Supported by over 70 Fire Chiefs across Delaware County, this recommendation underscores the urgent need to mitigate fire hazards and protect life and property in Delaware County. The burn ban is a vital step in safeguarding Delaware County’s residents and properties during these exceptionally dry conditions.

Details of the Burn Ban

The burn ban prohibits all forms of open burning, which includes any outdoor burning of materials such as garbage, leaves, grass, twigs, paper, vegetation from land clearing, and any other debris. Open burning is defined as burning conducted in burn barrels (screened or unscreened), fire rings, or directly on the ground in any outdoor location.

The following exceptions are not restricted under this temporary ban:

• Propane or gas stoves for outdoor cooking
• Charcoal grills for cooking purposes
• Tobacco use in any form, such as cigarettes and cigars
• Campfires contained within fire rings at state, federal, or Department of Environmental Protection licensed campgrounds

Enforcement and Fines

Enforcement of the burn ban will be carried out by all sworn police officers across Delaware County. Violations of the burn ban are treated as a summary offense, with the following fine structure:

• First Offense: A fine of up to $100
• Second Offense: A fine of up to $200
• Third and Subsequent Offenses: A fine of up to $300

In municipalities that have existing ordinances prohibiting open burning, police officers have the discretion to issue citations under either the municipal ordinance or the County’s burn ban resolution. Please note that violators cannot be cited under both the County resolution and a local ordinance for the same infraction.

Water Conservation Encouraged

Alongside the burn ban, Delaware County encourages residents to conserve water to alleviate strain on local resources. Simple steps, like taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and limiting outdoor water use, can help preserve water during this dry period:

• Turn off faucets while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes.
• Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads.
• Take shorter showers and consider using water-efficient fixtures.
• Minimize lawn watering and use brooms rather than hoses to clean driveways and sidewalks.

For more information on the burn ban, including a downloadable copy of Resolution #2024-3, residents can visit the County’s official website at DelcoPA.Gov.