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BURNING IN WEST HANOVER TOWNSHIP
The following is a summary of important answers to questions for any resident planning to
burn outdoors this Spring. The Township's Open Burning Ordinance can be reviewed in its
entirety at the Township office.
Q: What can I burn?
A: The Township allows the burning of leaves, branches, and yard
trimmings under four inches in diameter without a permit provided all other pertinent
sections of the ordinance are adhered to. Residents are encouraged to drop off leaves and
other yard materials at the West Hanover Compost Center, open Saturday mornings beginning
May 4 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.
Q: When can I burn?
A: The ordinance prohibits open burning between the hours of sunset and 7
a.m. Weather conditions should also be considered prior to open burning. Never burn on a
windy day.
Q: When do I need a permit to burn?
A: Any time you wish to burn debris over four inches in diameter or if
you wish to burn any item other than yard trimmings or brush.
Q: How do I get a permit?
Call the Township office, and the Fire Marshal will call you to arrange an inspection and
issue the permit.
Q: What is the permit fee?
A: There is no fee for a burning permit.
Q: Can I burn newspaper and cardboard boxes?
A: Yes, provided the burning is confined within a noncombustible
enclosure or container, designed or adapted to prevent the escape of fire-setting sparks.
Q: What cannot be burned within the Township?
A: No garbage, animal substance, or parts thereof, any can that contains
or did contain air or gas under pressure, or any chemical or substance which is a
hazardous chemical or hazardous substance, or which when burned would
create a hazardous or offensive condition. Tires,
shingles, and construction debris may not be burned.
Q: How far away from a building must a burn pile be?
A: The ordinance states 20 feet. However, we recommend a minimum distance
of 50 feet to the nearest building or structure.
Q: Can I use a family-size outdoor barbecue or campfire
for outdoor events?
A: Yes. A permit will be needed if the camp fire is going to be conducted
after sunset.
Q: What would happen if I would lose control of the fire
and It damages property belonging to myself or my neighbor?
A: The person who set or maintained the fire is responsible for any
damage the fire may cause. This includes smoke damage to a neighbor's house if the smoke
enters through the windows. There are both criminal and civil penalties for damages
resulting from an out-of-control fire. A burn permit does not waive any duties or
responsibilities of the person conducting the burn.
Q: Is open burning restricted in wooded areas?
A: No. However, if a wildland or mountain fire results from an open
burning or campfire, the responsible party may face substantial suppression costs from the
PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Bureau of Forestry.
Remember, if you have any questions as to whether or not a permit is required, please contact the Township office at 652-4841, or if preferred email.
Last year, over two dozen fires in West Hanover resulted from debris or open burnings. If the weather conditions cause high fire danger conditions, the Fire Marshal may place a ban on all open burning. We recommend that you call the Township office to confirm that there is no ban in effect.
REMEMBER .. ONLY YOU CAN PREVENT FOREST FIRES!