The Hannibal Fire Department would like to clarify the open burning requirements for the citizens of Hannibal.

Campfires, torches, flares, welding, or fires used for cooking are allowed in the City of Hannibal without an open burning permit. Open burning of leaves, grass, and small amounts of yard waste is allowed between September 1st through May 31st without a permit. These materials must be burned on the property where they originated, not on public streets, sidewalks, or alleys. Burning in barrels is not allowed, however, an open wire container is allowed. The intent of that requirement is to be able to easily see the material being burned. Burn sites must not be any closer than fifty feet from any structure. Fires must be extinguished by 6:00 p.m.

If your burn pile meets that description, you do not need a permit for open burning. If it does not fit that description, or you have any questions, contact the fire department to get a permit or more information.

Requirements for a permit are as follows:

Please note that for land clearing operations, a permit from the Department of Natural Resources is likely to be required.

If a complaint is received, or the Fire Department determines that the otherwise legal open burning is a public nuisance or objectionable, the fire will be extinguished. No penalty will be issued for this unless the resident refuses to extinguish the fire or refused Fire Department members to extinguish the fire.

The Fire Chief or designated officer may refuse or revoke any permit. The permit does not allow any violation of the open burning ordinance. Occasionally the State, County, or City places a "No Open Burning" order into effect. When that occurs, any burn permit issued prior to that order is no longer valid. The penalty for an open burning violation is limited to a misdemeanor.

If you have any questions about open burning, please feel free to contact the Hannibal Fire Department at (573) 221-0657.