As the designated agent for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) within the county, JCDHE enforces the state air quality regulations on open burning. These regulations are designed to protect human health and the environment.

JCDHE issues open burning exemptions in accordance with these regulations when prudent and necessary. Under these regulations, certain types of open burning do not require prior consent from JCDHE while others do require written approval. However, your local fire department, which operates on their local fire code, usually requires a burn permit. Always contact your local fire department for an open burning permit.

We also investigate open burning complaints to determine compliance with air quality regulations when they are received. Appropriate open burning investigations are referred to KDHE and/or local fire departments for possible enforcement action.

When high wind conditions occur, usually 15 miles per hour or higher, most area fire departments will not be issuing burn permits. During  dry or drought conditions, they may restrict open burning regardless of wind conditions. It's very important for you to contact your local fire department before you do any open burning.