Friday, Dec. 13, 2024: We will close at 2:30 p.m.

Burn Permit Applications:
Apply online: Use the green "Pay Online" button in the menu bar.
Mail-in Application: Go to "Forms" on the menu bar.

File an Air Pollution Complaint (24/7) 423.643.5970

The Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau investigates complaints that involve air pollution issues.  Our investigator responds to complaints 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

To file a complaint that is currently occurring, call 423.643.5970.  If it is after business hours, you will be connected to our on-call investigator.  The website is monitored during business hours Monday – Friday.  Online complaints will not be received until Monday morning.

If you would like to file a complaint for an ongoing issue (that is not occurring at that moment), please call the above number during business hours – Monday  to Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

What is the typical nature of a complaint?

  • burning, including, but not limited to:
    • excessive smoke which is creating a nuisance
    • burning materials other than vegetation and/or untreated, non-manufactured wood
    • burning after permitted hours
    • leaving a fire unattended
    • burning during the burning ban (May 1 – Sept 30)
    • If you fear the fire is a safety issue, contact the fire department.
  • mishandling of asbestos

  • odors from an industry

  • excessive smoke coming from an industry

Any information you provide, including your name and phone number, becomes public record and may be released if someone submits a Tennessee Open Records Request.