Aside from the health risks and annoyance, a fire hazard is created that endangers the entire neighborhood.

Most leaves and yard trimmings can be better used for mulch and compost. It's free fertilizer, reduces the need for watering in dry spells and it keeps the stuff out of our land fill.

If consideration of one's neighbors is not enough to keep one from burning, consider that it is prohibited by both Leon County and State Law.

County Law:
It shall be unlawful for any person to dispose of waste by open burning when an organized waste collection system is available for service, or where such burning is a nuisance to the neighborhood or is a hazard to passing motorists on nearby roads.

State Law:
Open burning may not be less than 300 feet from an occupied building.
(All homes in our neighborhood are within 300 feet of each other.)

The Fire Dept. will be glad to rush over with lights flashing and sirens wailing to put the fire out and issue a citation to the person doing the burning.

More information and a pamphlet is available from the Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Affairs - 488-1871.