City of Staunton
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The City of Staunton regulates open burning to safeguard the public’s health and welfare and to achieve and maintain, to the greatest extent practicable, a sufficient level of air quality for city residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burn brush in the City?
Yes, but only in an Ag Forest District or a commercial operation and it requires a burn permit.
How do I obtain a burn permit?
You may download a burn permit application or visit either fire station to pick up an application. You may also contact the Fire Marshal's Office to have an application emailed to you.
Can I burn brush once I submit my application?
Not immediately. Once the application is submitted and the fee paid, a representative from the Fire Marshal's Office will visit the burn site to evaluate it and make suggestions if needed. Then, the application will be reviewed for approval. If approved, you may burn once you receive the actual burn permit, which is provided by mail, email or in person.
Is there a fee for open burning?
There is a $50 fee for Ag Forest burning and a $100 fee for commercial burning. See the city code for a description of each type of burning. If you are still unsure, contact the Fire Marshal's Office for guidance.
Do I need a burn permit for my fire pit or grill?
Unless you are using a fire pit for other purposes than recreational use (e.g., burning yard debris), a permit is not needed. See “Exemptions” in the city code for a definition of recreational use. However, be aware that the maximum permissible width of a fire pit is three feet.
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