Open burning, or burning anything outdoors, is a common way to get rid or leaves and limbs, clear farm lands, and dispose of trash, but this method pollutes the air and often causes brush, residential, or forest fires. In some instances, burning is illegal and can carry a hefty fine. In South Carolina, it is illegal to burn trash in a burn barrel, but did you know that it’s also illegal to burn paper and cardboard as well as paint, electrical wires, tires, plastics, and roofing materials?
Instead of burning, consider composting or chipping leaves and limbs. Many types of papers and cardboard are recyclable in your community, and counties are required to provide at least one site where residents can drop off unwanted tires. Before you burn, think about healthier alternatives for your neighbors and the Earth.