Norfolk, Connecticut – Open Burning Guide

Important Reminder

YOU MAY NOT conduct any open burning until you are contacted and approved by an Open Burning Official.

Weekend Open Burning (Saturday & Sunday)

  1. Submit Request
    • Email openburning@norfolkfire.org with:
      • Name
      • Address of burn
      • Date burn permit was issued
      • Call-back number
    • The On-Call Open Burning Official will respond within an hour to approve or decline your request based on the current fire index, Air Quality, & Weather.

Weekday Open Burning (Monday – Friday)

  • Must be approved through the Selectmen’s Office: 860-542-5829
  • No exceptions.

Burning Rules & Restrictions

Burning is NOT allowed:

  • To clear land prior to construction
  • To burn brush larger than 3″ in diameter
  • To dispose of construction debris, household trash, or leaves
  • If Forest Fire Danger Index is High, Very High, or Extreme
  • If Air Quality Index (AQI) ≥ 100 anywhere in the state
  • If the weather is rainy, foggy, snowy, overcast, or wind > 15 mph
  • If national or state air quality standards may be exceeded
  • If a hazardous health condition could result
  • If there is a DEEP air pollution advisory

Burning Hours & Conditions

  • Burning allowed 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Weather must be sunny or partly sunny, with wind speeds 5–15 mph
  • Only brush ≤ 3″ diameter may be burned
  • Fires must never be left unattended

Before the Burn

  • Check AQI and Forest Fire Danger Index (DEEP website)
  • Clear surrounding grass and trees from the burn area
  • Wet down surrounding area
  • Have fire extinguishers and hoses ready

During the Burn

  • Fire must be attended at all times
  • Burn only in the approved area
  • Permit must be available on site
  • Burning must not create a nuisance for neighbors

What is a Nuisance?

  • Any burning that substantially interferes with the enjoyment of another’s property, without trespassing, is considered a nuisance
  • Includes campfires, bonfires, chimeneas, etc., if smoke or fire affects neighbors

After the Burn / Completion

  • Ensure complete combustion and minimize smoke
  • Fire must be fully extinguished by 5:00 PM
  • All embers and coals must be wetted to prevent smoldering or ash emissions
  • Failure to comply may result in penalties or enforcement actions

Legal Compliance

  • Violations may result in misdemeanor charges, fines, or imprisonment
  • Legal reference: CGS Sec. 23-48
  • By contacting the Local Burning Official, you agree to follow all Connecticut DEEP regulations

Fire Danger Explained – Spread & Buildup Factors

Even with a valid permit, always ensure nearby dry vegetation is protected

Spread Factor: Distance an uncontrolled fire can travel along the ground (chains/hour; 1 chain = 66′)

Example: Spread = 12 → 12 × 66′ = 792 feet per hour

Buildup Factor: Tracks fuel moisture and drying over the past 10 days

0–25 = Normal

26–50 = Critical

50–100 = Extreme

These factors contribute to the Burning Index: Low, Moderate, High, Very High, Extreme