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K-State Research and Extension
123 Umberger Hall
Manhattan, KS 66506-3401
785-532-5820
extadmin@ksu.edu

April 15, 2025

Open Burning Information

Submitted by Abigail Crouse

Controlled burn in a field

Spring brings open burning season in Kansas. It is important to consider health effects, safety practices, environmental impacts and burn restrictions when conducting open burning.

In Kansas, the open burning of industrial waste is generally prohibited. If you have a permit to open burn, please refer to the KDHE April Burning Restrictions FAQ. If you plan to burn, make sure to check with local authorities and familiarize yourself with the information available at ksfire.org before conducting any burning.

Be aware that these Kansas counties are under a burn ban for the month of April: Butler, Cowley, Chase, Chautauqua, Elk, Geary, Greenwood, Johnson, Lyon, Marion, Morris, Pottawatomie, Riley, Sedgwick, Wabaunsee and Wyandotte.

Those without a permit to open burn can submit an open burning request to KDHE by filling out this form.

Air quality can dip in open burning season, and the Air Now map can show fires and areas with poor air quality. It can help people protect their health during open burning season. Outside of open burning season, before requesting permission, it may be wise to check the air quality in the requested area.

To learn more about open burning, visit the Kansas Small Business Environmental Assistance Program’s open burning webpage. SBEAP is also hosting a free, interactive open burning webinar on Thursday, April 24 from 2:00-3:00 pm. Click here to register.

For printed copies of SBEAP’s Open Burning Poster, call 800-578-8898 or email sbeap@k-state.edu.

Questions about open burning should be directed to local fire authority, local law enforcement, the local KDHE District Office or the KDHE Bureau of Air Compliance and Enforcement Section.