Open Burning in Trout Valley

Trout Valley Association Standing Rule:
Summary of Open Burning of Landscape Waste Regulations - McHenry County Public Health Ordinance: Article III - Section 1.29 Effective April 1, 2008
 
Prohibited at All Times:
  • Burning of manure, garbage, litter, etc. on any property in McHenry County
  • Burning of landscape waste within 100' of a habitable structure (i.e. residence, school, etc.)
  • Burning of landscape waste within 50' of a non-habitable structure (i.e. detached garage, barn, etc.)
 
Restrictions When Greater Than 100’ From a Habitable Structure and 50’ From a Non-Habitable Structure:
  • Only landscape waste and only on the property where the landscape waste was generated
  • Only during the months of April, May, October and November (weekends only)
  • Only between dawn and dusk
  • Only when the winds are less than 10 mph
  • Must be supervised by an individual at least 18 years of age
  • A fire extinguisher, garden hose, or water source must be available by the burning site
 
500' Exemptions:
  • Burning of on-site generated landscape waste 500' or greater from a habitable structure is allowed:
    • During any month of the year
    • On any day of the week
    • At any time of the day
 
Note: All other prohibitions/restrictions apply.
 
Other Exemptions:
  • Recreational fires, not larger than 3'x3'x3', and excludes leaves, grass or shrubbery clippings
  • Ceremonial fires (bonfires) larger than 3'x3'x3', and excludes leaves, grass or shrubbery clippings; permit required from McHenry County Department of Health Habitat Reclamation or Firefighter
 
Enforcement:
 Any officer of the McHenry County Department of Health, law enforcement agency, fire department or fire protection district is authorized to enforce the provisions