FREDERICK, Md. - The Frederick County Health Department (FCHD) reminds county residents that there is an open burning ban in effect each year from June 1st through August 31st. Open burning permits cannot be used during this time. This ban does not apply to small recreational fires such as campfires, barbeques, or gas grills.
The annual ban, which is required by the Maryland State Air Quality regulations, first went into effect in June 1995. The ban extends throughout the Metropolitan Washington Air Quality Region and is designed to reduce the high ozone levels that affect the region during the summer months, allowing for better air quality. The ban is not related to rainfall.
“The annual burn ban is key to keeping the air quality in Frederick County at safe and healthy levels,” said Alicia Evangelista, FCHD’s Program Manager for Environmental Health Community Services and Development Review. “The annual burn ban helps people with asthma or other lung conditions by limiting the amount of pollution that goes into the air.”
Residents are also reminded that they must obtain an annual open burning permit from the Health Department prior to any open burning, burn permits are valid for a calendar year and expire on December 31 of each year. For more information on how to obtain a permit, visit the Health Department’s website.
Open burning ban violations and open burning without a permit are subject to fines of up to $500 under the Frederick County Code and up to $25,000 under Maryland State Regulations. Burning of household trash or household rubbish is not allowed at any time of the year. For additional information, contact the Community Services Office in the Health Department’s Environmental Health Division at 301-600-1717.
May 29, 2026 - Dec 18, 2026
