Residents
The Air Pollution Control Bureau, founded in 1969, strives to administer local air pollution control laws that are intended to achieve and maintain such levels of air quality as will protect human health and safety and to the greatest degree practicable, prevent injury to plant and animal life and property, and foster the comfort and convenience of the people. The Air Pollution Control Board guides the Bureau’s initiatives to maintain clean air for our community. This board is made up of 10 members: three county-appointed members, three city-appointed members, three joint-agency members and a representative from the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department.
About Burning
Burning is allowed in Hamilton County from October 1 to April 30 of each year with a valid permit. Burn permits are issued to individuals or businesses that are planning to burn less than two acres in a burn season. Burning is limited to clean, raw, untreated, non-manufactured wood or natural vegetation.
Burning Fees
Permits will not be issued until any required inspections are performed. We accept cash, check, money order, or credit/debit cards.
Applications are available online or can be submitted to our office by mail or in person:
Controlled Burning
Contolled Burning permits are issued to those individuals or businesses planning to
burn more than two acres of material. These permits have a $500 fee and the permit
must be issued before burning is allowed.
Burning Ban
The seasonal burning ban is in effect from May 1 – September 30 of each year. No
burning is allowed between these dates. If you have any questions or comments, please
contact the Air Pollution Control Bureau at 423.643.5970.
Recreational Fires
Fire pits, campfires and warming fires do not require a burn permit. Recreational fires are limited to:
1. 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high
2. Designated areas or on private property
3. The burning of clean untreated wood or charcoal
If you have any questions about recreational fire regulations, call 423.643.5970.
About Air Quality
Practice pollution prevention by reducing or eliminating emissions before
they occur. Through pollution prevention we have been able to help
comapines see the economic and evironmental benefits of changing to less
polluting options. The Bureau is part of nationwide movement, directed by the EPA, toward preventing pollution.
How You Can Help
- Drive less by combining errands
- Drive the speed limit
- Walk or bike (before noon and after 6:00 p.m.)
- Use public transportation
- Refuel your vehicle after 6:00 p.m. and don’t overfill your gas tank
- Keep your tires properly inflated
- Take measures to reduce unnecessary idling
- Use LED light bulbs to light your home
