“It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in or allow open burning within the city except when a written permit has been issued by the Denver Department of Environmental Health.”
Open burning of yard trash (leaves, branches, twigs, grass cuttings, household trash, paper/cardboard, etc.), materials from residential/commercial demolition and land clearing debris is not allowed in Denver. This restriction may also be applied statewide. For statewide regulations visit: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Regulation Number 9
Definition of Open Burning
Open burning is any fire or smoldering (burning and producing smoke without flame) where any material is burned in the outdoor air, or in a receptacle other than a furnace or other equipment connected to a stack or chimney. Examples include campfires and bonfires.
WHY OPEN BURNING IS NOT ALLOWED
For several years the Denver Metro area has often had bad air days, which violate Federal and/or state air quality standards. The metro area was designated as a “non-attainment” area for particulate matter. In order to maintain good air quality and good visibility and to remain an “attainment” area, it is necessary to limit open burning.
Barbeques
The non-commercial cooking of food (back yard barbecue) is exempt from the ordinance.
Open Burning Permits
Open burning permits are rarely issued to individuals. Open burning permits are issued for fires used in Fireman ship training and fire extinguisher training. Denver Department of Environmental Health, Environmental Protection Division, will review applications, which will protect the ambient air to the greatest extent, the purpose and use of the fire and the availability of reasonable alternatives.
Obtaining An Open Burning Permit
To apply for a permit, call 3-1-1.