Every autumn, residents across the country try to burn their leaves instead of disposing of them properly. Recently, the Arvada Fire District has responded on several of these types of calls. What most people don't realize is that it is illegal to burn leaves, weeds or tree limbs. There are few exceptions to this rule.
The Arvada Fire District's Division of Fire Prevention issues burn permits from March 1st through October 31st for irrigation ditch maintenance. Burn permits will not be issued for field burning, tree limbs, dried leaves, garden debris, fence rows or other burns not directly related to the above situations unless an inspection is conducted by the Division of Fire Prevention prior to the issuance of a burn permit.
"Anyone caught burning may be issued a summons that is punishable by a fine of up to $999 and/or 90 days in jail," said Arvada Fire Marshal
Sparky Shriver.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this type of burning can lead to air pollution (including toxic, irritant, and cancer-causing compounds), health problems, and fire hazards. This smoke also contains carbon monoxide which reduces the amount of oxygen the red blood cells can absorb and supply to body tissues.
So what are your options?
While your normal trash pickup may be an option, it is becoming less desirable with the landfills reaching capacity. Jefferson County offers a solution through the Rooney Road Recycling Center. For more information, you can contact the Yard Waste Recycling Program at 1-800-776-1644.