Don't strike that match: Milton Fire Department imposes new burn ban

Don’t even think about starting that bonfire outside. At least that’s what Milton officials are advising.

The city’s fire department recently announced an "indefinite" ban on burning yard and agricultural waste — like fecal matter coming from farm animals — or starting bonfires.

Georgia's Environmental Protection Division issued a "summer burn ban" in 54 counties — including Fulton — from May 1 to September 30. The state and Milton, however, relaxed those burn bans in October.

But the recent uptick in outdoor grass fires and over the same period last year is what is prompting the city to reactivate the burn ban, according to Milton Fire Marshall Matt Marietta.

Marietta also notes the region's ongoing bout with drought conditions. That — coupled with high winds, low humidity, and extended summer heat — increases the risk of an outdoor fire, Marietta said.

The city of Milton is not alone with its recent act. Five other counties, including Gwinnett and Clayton, in metro Atlanta have issued their own burn bans.

Violators of the outdoor burn ban are likely to receive a citation. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are still good to use though.