LOWER MACUNGIE TOWNSHIP OUTSIDE BURNING POLICY & RESTRICTIONS

Lower Macungie Township through Ordinance 2012-10 regulates open burning and/or outdoor fires for the safety and general welfare of its residents.

Outside or open burning within Lower Macungie is only allowed under certain conditions and restrictions without a permit if the fire is contained within an approved container and meets the criteria listed below for recreational and cooking purposes.

Residential open cooking fires for grilling and/or barbequing food are allowed within approved containers or enclosures. Fuels for open cooking and recreational fires shall be limited to natural gas, propane, charcoal, or seasoned natural wood.

What is an approved container? A non-combustible container or enclosure engineered or designed for outdoor use such as a chiminea, outdoor fireplace, fire-pit or similar type container that can be purchased at local retailers. Any openings in the container must be covered with a wire mesh or other screening material that will prevent the passage of sparks and embers. Fire in these type containers may also be subject to approval by the Enforcement Officer.

  • Fires within approved containers are allowed if they are at least fifteen feet (15’) from a
  • Where the fire is contained in other approved containers (such as fire-pits) the minimum required distance from structures shall be twenty-five feet (25’).
  • The fire must be attended at all times by a person over the age of eighteen (18).
  • It shall be unlawful for any person to burn, ignite or feed any open fire that is maintained or kindled in containers such as barrels, incinerators, and/or devices commonly known as burn
  • It is also unlawful for any person to burn, ignite or feed any open fire between the hours of 11:00 m. and 6:00 a.m.

Other open burning that is not contained or conducted as noted above shall require an open burning permit or may be prohibited by the Township Ordinance.

Residents may access the entire Ordinance for additional information regarding the requirements and enforcement of this Ordinance by going to the Township website and clicking on Code of Ordinances.

PLEASE NOTE: In the 2018 International Fire Code, charcoal burners and other open-flame devices may not be operated on combustible balconies or within ten feet (10’) of combustible construction. Exceptions are permitted for one and two-family dwellings and where buildings, balconies and decks are sprinklered.

Residents may access the entire ordinance for additional information regarding the requirements and enforcement of this ordinance by going to the township website and clicking on codes.

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