Open Burn Regulations

Per the 2011 Ohio Fire Code and the 2011 Ohio EPA Open Burning Standard:
Certain outdoor fires including camp fires, bonfires, recreational fires, ceremonial fires, cooking fires, outdoor fire kettles, portable fire pits, heating for warmth of outdoor workers, or other similar purposes are permitted in the City of Hudson, provided all below criteria are met.

Open Burn Criteria

  • Fires must be perimeter contained to prevent fire spread (brick, stone, block, earth or metal).
  • Fires must be attended by a responsible party at all times.
  • Fire extinguishing equipment must be readily available on site (garden hose, (2) 5-gallon buckets of water, or a 4A fire extinguisher).
  • Only natural dry seasoned firewood can be burned.
  • Fires must be completely extinguished when finished.
  • Burning of trash, leaves, grass or yard debris of any kind is prohibited.
  • Maximum size and location requirements:
    • All outdoor fires must be a maximum of 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet high.
    • Must be at least 25 feet from any structure.

Ceremonial / Special Event Bonfires

  • Ceremonial / Special Event Bonfires that are larger than 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet high may be permitted under specific circumstances. You must call the Hudson Fire Department at least 30 days prior to the event to obtain permission, an Ohio EPA permit, and the list of additional criteria.

Portable Units

  • Fires that are located in an approved portable unit that include a chimney or stack and are completely enclosed behind glass, metal or ember screening:
    • Must be located at least 15 feet from any commercial structure.
    • There is no minimum distance limit for 1 or 2 family residential properties.
    • It is strongly recommended that these units not be operated on a wood deck.
Any fire that is found by the Hudson Fire Department to be in violation of the above criteria, or that is deemed hazardous or objectionable due to odor or smoke emissions shall be immediately extinguished. Repeat offenders may be cited and fined.

Notification to the Hudson Police Dispatch Center at 330-342-1800 before starting your fire is strongly recommended.

This policy is based on the 2011 Ohio Fire Code and the 2011 Ohio EPA Open Burning Standard.

If you have any questions contact Hudson Fire at 330-342-1860, weekdays 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 pm.