Outdoor Burning Ban
Wayne County Issues Temporary Outdoor Burning Ban Due to Drought Conditions
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners has adopted an ordinance temporarily restricting outdoor burning in response to ongoing drought conditions and increased wildfire risk.
Effective Date
This ban is effective immediately as of April 22, 2026, and applies to all unincorporated areas of Wayne County.
Prohibited Activities
All open burning of yard debris is prohibited, including:
- Leaves
- Limbs
- Grass
- Other vegetative matter
No person shall ignite or allow the outdoor burning of yard debris during this period.
Exemptions
The ordinance does not apply to:
- Controlled burns conducted by government agencies or authorized personnel for forestry or public safety purposes
- Fires used for cooking in approved grills or fire pits, provided they are attended and comply with safety regulations
- Agricultural or forestry burns conducted under a valid permit from the Georgia Forestry Commission in accordance with state law
Enforcement
This ordinance will be enforced by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne County Fire Department, and Wayne County Code Enforcement.
Penalties for Violations
Any person found in violation of this ordinance may be subject to action in Magistrate Court of Wayne County. Penalties may include:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Imprisonment for up to 60 days
- Or both
Duration
This restriction will remain in effect until drought conditions improve and the Board of Commissioners formally rescinds the ordinance.
Additional Information
Wayne County will continue to provide updates through official communication channels, including the County website, social media, and local news outlets.
📄 The full ordinance is available below for review.