# Subtitle 2 – Open Burning

Current through 2026-07-17. Source: City of Balt., Md., Ord. 26-129. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.

## § 8-201 Definitions.

Balt., Md., Code § 8-201 (2026)

(a) In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Open burning” means any fire or smoke-producing process that emits particulates or gases directly into the atmosphere without passing through any air pollution control equipment.

(c) “Waste” has the meaning stated in §7-101 of <cite data-path="|health">this article</cite>.

*History: Ord. 99-548*

## § 8-202 Purpose of subtitle.

Balt., Md., Code § 8-202 (2026)

(a) Because open burning can be a major contributor to air pollution in Baltimore City, the City’s policy is to eliminate or control pollution from open burning to protect the health, welfare, and property of the people of the City.

(b) For this reason, the Commissioner of Health may regulate open burning.

*History: Ord. 99-548*

## § 8-203 Open burning prohibited.

Balt., Md., Code § 8-203 (2026)

Except as specified in <cite data-path="|health|§8-204">§ 8-204 {“Exceptions”} of this subtitle</cite>, no person may permit or carry on any open burning of waste.

*History: Ord. 99-548*

## § 8-204 Exceptions.

Balt., Md., Code § 8-204 (2026)

(a) The use of outdoor grills and fireplaces to prepare food is permitted unless prohibited by the Fire Department.

(b) The open burning of highly explosive or other dangerous materials for which there is no other known method of disposal or under other unusual circumstances is permitted if, on written request, the burning is:

  (1) approved by the Commissioner and the Chief of the Fire Department; and

  (2) done under the supervision of the Fire Department.

(c) The open burning of solid, liquid, or gaseous fuels, materials, or buildings is permitted if done for training purposes under the direct control and supervision of Fire Department instructors.

(d) Unless prohibited by the Fire Department, the use of salamanders or similar devices by construction or other workers for heat is permitted if:

  (1) no smoke violation or other nuisance is created; and

  (2) the salamander or other device is of a type approved by the Chief of the Fire Department.

(e) In an emergency declared by the Commissioner, the open burning of household and normal business waste is permitted if it is done in compliance with the conditions and requirements that the Commissioner specifies for the emergency.

*History: Ord. 99-548*