Outdoor Burning Ordinance

County Council amended the Lexington County Outdoor Burning Ordinance to prohibit the open burning of leaves, tree branches and yard trimmings at private residences within 75 feet of any structure and/or property line. The amended law, that took effect on July 1, 2007 , requires citizens who burn debris outdoors to take adequate steps to prevent any fire from spreading within 75 feet of any structure.

The amended law also requires open burning that is done for the purpose of clearing land or maintaining a right-of-way to be conducted in compliance with South Carolina air quality regulations. Such open burning will be prohibited between April 1 and October 30, when air quality problems are most prevalent in Lexington County. For more information and to read a press release on the amended ordinance, click here.

CONTACT NUMBERS 

Yard Debris (leaves, tree trimmings)

Prior to general debris burning in areas outside of cities and towns in Lexington County, read Lexington County’s rules and regulations and notify the SC Forestry Commission by calling 1-800-705-8613.

 Land Clearing (large clearing, mechanical clearing)

Prior to burning for large clearings and mechanical clearings please contact Lexington County Fire Services at (803) 785-8141.

 Forestry/Wildlife/Agriculture Burning

Prior to burning for forestry, wildlife or agricultural purposes, read Lexington County’s rules and regulations and notify the SC Forestry Commission by calling 1-800-688-3823.

 General/Emergency

To report a wildfire, call 9-1-1 and the Forestry Commission at 1-800-777-FIRE (same as 1-800-777-3473).

For general questions about outdoor debris burning, please contact Lexington County Fire Services at (803) 785-8141.