The Ottumwa Fire Department reminds residents that November is one of only two months each year when open burning of yard waste is permitted within the City of Ottumwa. The other permitted month is April.
During November, yard waste burning is allowed on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. The remaining permitted burning dates for November are:
- Wednesday, November 4
- Saturday, November 7
- Wednesday, November 11
- Saturday, November 14
- Wednesday, November 18
- Saturday, November 21
- Wednesday, November 25
- Saturday, November 28
Residents are reminded that yard waste burning is limited to leaves and twigs measuring less than one inch in diameter and less than two feet in length. All fires must be located on the resident’s private property. Burning is not permitted in streets, alleys, or on other public property.
If the Fire Department receives a complaint regarding offensive smoke, the fire must be extinguished. Burning garbage is strictly prohibited at all times.
Recreational Fire Regulations
Recreational fires are subject to separate regulations and are permitted between 11:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. These fires must be contained in manufactured fire pit appliances or in above-ground or below-ground fire pits protected by metal, stone, or concrete.
Additional requirements for recreational fires include:
- Fires must be located at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material.
- Fires cannot exceed three feet in diameter or two feet in height.
- Only approved recreational fire pit setups may be used.
The Ottumwa Fire Department encourages all residents to follow these regulations and use caution when burning outdoors. Residents should be considerate of neighbors and take steps to prevent smoke from becoming a nuisance.
