DeKalb, IL

Can I burn leaves in DeKalb?: If you live in the City of DeKalb, open burning is regulated. For additional information, see the DeKalb Municipal Code, Chapter 28, provides for regulations concerning open burning. The burning of leaves and garden debris within the corporate limits of the City of DeKalb shall not be allowed within twenty-five (25) feet of any house, fence, other building, or lot line. Where allowed, only small amounts are permitted to be burned at one (1) time and shall be supervised by at least one (1) responsible adult at all times until the fire is extinguished. A garden hose or other suitable fire fighting equipment is required near the site for immediate use. Leaves and garden debris are prohibited from being burned on asphalt or a public right of way. Leaf burning is prohibited after sunset. Any open burning shall be constantly attended by at least one (1) responsible individual until the fire is extinguished. A water hose or water fire extinguisher or comparable fire extinguishing equipment shall be available near the site for immediate use. The code official shall prohibit any burning which will be offensive or objectionable due to smoke or odor emissions when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous. The code official shall order the extinguishment of any burning, which creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation. The burning of construction debris for waste disposal purposes is strictly prohibited.

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Open Burning

1. Can I burn leaves in DeKalb?: If you live in the City of DeKalb, open burning is regulated. For additional information, see the DeKalb Municipal Code, Chapter 28, provides for regulations concerning open burning. The burning of leaves and garden debris within the corporate limits of the City of DeKalb shall not be allowed within twenty-five (25) feet of any house, fence, other building, or lot line. Where allowed, only small amounts are permitted to be burned at one (1) time and shall be supervised by at least one (1) responsible adult at all times until the fire is extinguished. A garden hose or other suitable fire fighting equipment is required near the site for immediate use. Leaves and garden debris are prohibited from being burned on asphalt or a public right of way. Leaf burning is prohibited after sunset. Any open burning shall be constantly attended by at least one (1) responsible individual until the fire is extinguished. A water hose or water fire extinguisher or comparable fire extinguishing equipment shall be available near the site for immediate use. The code official shall prohibit any burning which will be offensive or objectionable due to smoke or odor emissions when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous. The code official shall order the extinguishment of any burning, which creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation. The burning of construction debris for waste disposal purposes is strictly prohibited.

2. Can I use a charcoal grill on my apartment balcony?: Open burning in any grill is prohibited in a multi-family residence where the grill will be placed on a combustible balcony.

3. Do I need a permit for a bonfire?: Yes, all permits shall be requested by and issued to the owner of the land or property upon which the bonfire is to be kindled, or his agents. Bonfire permits applications are available through the Fire Department’s Administration Office, Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 p.m. at 815-748-8460.