“Burning of Leaves and Construction Materials is Prohibited at all Times”

 

            In recent years there has been an increase in the amount of open burning in the Township, particularly the burning of leaves and brush in the autumn.  This creates a serious immediate public health hazard for children and people with asthma or allergies and other short and longer term problems for otherwise healthy adults.

 

            The Pocopson Township Burning Ordinance strictly regulates what types of materials may be burned, when and under what circumstances.  Violators are subject up to a $1,000 fine.

 

            Only brush and tree limbs may be burned between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.

 

            All permissible fires shall meet the requirements imposed by the Ordinance for safe burning.  Unless a fire is confined to an approved enclosure, it must be:

 

(a)    At least 20 feet from any building.

(b)    Surrounded by 15 feet of cleared area on all sides.

(c)     Attended by someone at all times.

 

The Burning Ordinance, in addition to establishing safe standards for burning, was enacted to protect the health of the residents of Pocopson Township.

 

DID YOU KNOW? . . . . . .

 

·                     The burning of leaves produces a considerable amount of airborne particulate matter (which is damaging to the lungs) and mold spores, carbon monoxide and at least seven known carcinogens?

·                     That many toxic and cancer causing chemicals are released into the air (and eventually wind up in your water) when trash and leaves are burned?

·                     That open burning forms ‘bad’ ozone, contributes to acid rain, increases your chances of catching colds and flu, aggravates allergies and is a trigger for asthma attacks?

 

Pocopson Township has a Leaf Recycling Program, with bags available in the fall at the Township office.  The Township also provides for the chipping of tree limbs twice a year to residents.  The Supervisors encourage all residents to reduce or eliminate burning by composting and recycling as much as possible.  Not only is this the better environmental solution, but your neighbors have a right to clean air and the health of all residents is protected.