Council Bluffs, Iowa – The Pottawattamie County Emergency Management Agency says a ban on open burning will be in place for Pottawattamie County beginning Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at 8:00 a.m.

The ban prohibits all open and controlled burning in Pottawattamie County, including all incorporated city limits within the county. The current weather forecast and environmental conditions indicate a very high fire danger with winds gusting to over 40 mph over the next couple days. The current dry conditions and dead vegetative fuels creates the perfect conditions for fires to spread rapidly.

Fire departments within the county have been responding to increased controlled burns that have gotten out of control, endangering property. During these dry conditions, citizens are reminded to not throw out cigarettes from moving vehicles and to discontinue burning yard waste, piled tree debris, grass/agricultural ground and set-asides or other items during the ban. At this time, the ban is anticipated to remain in effect until after planting season or if the county receives substantial increases in precipitation.

Violation of a burn ban can subject a person to citation or arrest for reckless use of fire or disobeying a burn ban. You may also be liable for any damages, losses, or injuries resulting from the fire.

For updated information on burn bans and the law you can find further information on our facebook, twitter, and web page. All citizens are urged to sign up for Alert Iowa at pcema-ia.org to receive alerts for fire danger, severe weather, and emergency notifications for your community.