(Lawrenceville, Ga., May 6, 2013) All types of outdoor/open burning are prohibited in Gwinnett County. In accordance with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources ban on open burning, 54 counties in Georgia (including Gwinnett) are responsible for complying with the state-issued burn ban from May 1st - September 30th, 2013.

The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) imposes an annual ban on outdoor burning to comply with Federal Clean Air Regulations. During the summer months in Georgia, the ozone in the air we breathe can reach unhealthy levels. The EPD has identified outdoor/open burning as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone. Consequently, open burning in metro Atlanta and larger counties is restricted during the warm weather season.

The safe and cautious use of residential BBQ grills for outdoor cooking is still allowed and does not require a permit. The use of BBQ grills on the balcony of apartment buildings is totally prohibited under the Gwinnett County Fire Ordinance.

The following types of outdoor/open burning are banned:

• You may not burn trees, limbs, or any other yard waste. This includes a ban on the use of air curtain destructors for land clearing.

The following types of outdoor/open burning are still allowed, provided the proper permits are obtained:

• Fires for agricultural practices zoned RA-200/residential agricultural or a forestry service prescribed burn.

• Fires for the purpose of training of firefighting personnel.

• Permits are required for all Bonfires for activities sponsored by: educational, civic, religious or other groups for the purpose of celebration. (Contact Fire Plan Review for Permits at 678-518-6000 or Go to www.gwinnettcounty.com –Departments - Planning and Development - Plan Review Sections - Fire Plan Review)

For additional information, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678.518.4980 or go to the website at www.gwinnettfiremarshal.com.