WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP BURNING REGULATIONS & PROCEDURES

  • Burning is permissible only between sunrise and sunset.
  • Burning in noncombustible containers must be covered with a screen of ½ inch or smaller mesh. No such fire shall be closer than 20’ from any building or property line. Permission is not required for these fires during daylight hours.
  • Farm burning of brush, tree stumps or branches is allowed only after permission has been secured from the Washington Township Fire Company. No brush burning is permitted within 150’ from any wooded area or building unless under the supervision of the Washington Township Fire Company.
  • Individuals having a campfire or recreational fire after sunset must obtain permission in order to avoid a false alarm response by the Washington Township Fire Company.
  • At least one competent adult must be in attendance of all burns AT ALL TIMES. Fire extinguishing equipment for control of the fire must be readily available at the site such as rakes, shovels, garden hose, fire extinguisher, etc.
  • Materials being burned are to be generated on site and not brought in from another site. Materials that MAY NOT be burned according to DEP regulations include such items as demolition waste, insulation, shingles, treated wood, paint, painted or stained objects or furniture, tires, mattresses, box springs, metal, insulating coating or wire, television sets, appliances, automobiles, automotive parts, batteries, PVC products, waste oil or other petroleum products.
  • If a complaint is received and the burning is deemed a nuisance or if the burning is determined to be a hazard it shall be extinguished.
  • A burning ban will automatically be in effect when the National Weather Service issues a RED FLAG WARNING.
    • Procedure for Permissions:
      • Permission must be received from an officer of the Washington Township Fire Company prior to the beginning of any burn, when permission is required. A phone message is not acceptable and is NOT permission to burn.
      • Contacts:
        • Dick Lane – 610-588-3234 – Days, Monday – Friday
        • Tighe Lane – 610-588-2113 – Evenings & Weekends
        • Cody Lane – 610-349-8264 – Alternate Contact
      • If an officer cannot be reached, you may contact the Northampton County 911 Center Non-Emergency number, 610-759-2200 and request that a Washington Township Fire Officer contact you for permission to burn.
      • When permission is received, you must contact the Northampton County 911 Center Non-Emergency number,
      • 610-759-2200 and provide your name, phone number, address of the burn, the time the burn will start and the name of the officer with the Washington Township Fire Company authorizing the burn.
      • Upon completion of the burn, you must contact the Northampton County 911 Center Non-Emergency number, 610-759-2200 and advise that the burn is complete and extinguished.