Burning of Waste

What is Backyard Burning?

It is the:

  • Burning waste in a barrel or exposed heap (bonfire) in a yard or garden
  • Burning in a purchased ready-made "home incinerator"
  • Burning commercial waste on a business premises or farmyard
  • Burning waste on a building site

Backyard burning of waste is illegal and is subject to prosecution

Burning waste is not only a nuisance to neighbours; it can release many harmful chemicals into the air you breathe.   Many people may think that they are doing the right thing in reducing the amount of waste going to landfill and saving money but they are both causing long term environmental pollution and interfering with the lives of others living in their area.  Burning waste in your home or garden can damage your health, as well as that of your children and your neighbours.  Such illegal practices lead to the release of toxic dioxins which are a real hazard for peoples’ health and the environment.

For more information visit the EPA website: Burning of Waste