Open Burning Information

An EPA report published in November 1997 shows that a single household burn barrel may emit as much toxic chemicals as a well-controlled municipal incinerator. "Major sources" of pollution, such as incinerators and factories, have been regulated for years. Now, DEP is focusing on educating the public about the impact of smaller sources - such as open burning - on air quality. A link to the EPA report and several related documents are found below in Technical Articles

Recycling Information

For information about recyclable materials, please visit Pennsylvania's Recycling Page and learn what types of materials go where. For help with your questions about recyclables and composting, this page includes lists of the DEP Regional Recycling Coordinators and local County Recycling Coordinators.

DEP Publications

• Open Burning Model Ordinance (PDF)
  This model ordinance can be used by local governments in establishing an open burning ordinance.
• Air Pollution from Household Open Burning in Pennsylvania - Fact Sheet (2700-FS-DEP2492) (PDF)
  Information and frequently asked questions for homeowners.
• Open Burning Regulation Exception (2700-FS-DEP4416) (PDF)
  Frequently Asked Questions for Fire Fighting Personnel
• Application For Open Burning Exception For Fire Fighting Instruction (2700-PM-BAQ002) (PDF)
  This application provides the DEP with the necessary information to review and approve requests for open burning exceptions for the purpose of fire fighting instruction by emergency service organizations. (1/17)
• Environmental Impacts from Woodstoves and Fireplaces - Fact Sheet (2700-FS-DEP2624) (PDF)
  Information and frequently asked questions for homeowners.
• Outdoor Wood Fired Boilers (2700-FS-DEP4243) (PDF)
  Information for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and homeowners on DEP regulations and federal New Source Performance Standards for these units (4/2022)

Technical Articles

• Polychlorinated Dibenzo-p-dioxins and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans 
  Read about the emissions of these toxics from the open burning of household waste in barrels.
• PCDD/F Emissions (PDF)
  Emissions from uncontrolled, domestic waste burning.
• Open Burning of Household Waste (PDF)
  EPA's Evaluation of Emissions from the Open Burning of Household Waste in Barrels: Volume 1. Technical Report
• EIIP (Emission Inventory Improvement Program) Document Series Volume III Chapter 16 (PDF)
  This chapter is one of a series of documents developed to provide cost-effective, reliable and consistent approaches to estimating emissions for area source inventories.