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1. How do I know if I am allowed to apply for an Open Burn Permit?

Enter the address where the burn will occur into the Linn County online Open Burn Permit Application Tool (https://lcgis.linncounty.org/apps/health/openburning/).  The Tool will evaluate the address and determine whether the property is outside of the established "no burn" areas.  If burning is allowed, you then have the option of applying for an Open Burn Permit for that property.  Alternatively, you may call Linn County Public Health at (319) 892-6000 and ask for assistance. 

2. How long do Open Burn Permits last?

Typically, Open Burn Permits are valid for 12 months following the issuance date.  Permits granted for training fires or prairie burns may only be valid for 30 days.  Please check the expiration date on your issued Open Burn Permit to verify the expiration date. 

3. How much do Open Burn Permits cost?

All Open Burning Permits cost $25.  Payments can be made in-person or over the phone via credit card (fees apply).  Payment is expected prior to issuance of the permit. 

4. I've lost my Open Burn Permit. How can I recover it?

The Open Burning Permit Application Tool can be used to recover your issued, valid Open Burn Permit.  The following guidance is provided: /DocumentCenter/View/16701

5. What is the difference between Landscape Waste and Tree Trimmings?

When applying for an Open Burn Permit, you will be expected to disclose what materials will be burned.  There is some overlap in the categories offered in the application process and we understand that these categories may cause confusion.  If you have any questions regarding the appropriate category to select when applying for an open Burn Permit, please contact Linn County Public Health. 

The "Landscape Wastes" category includes grass, leaves, weeds, trees, tree limbs, and other natural growth and agricultural wastes.  In most circumstances, this specifically applies to trees and tree limbs originating on the property where the burn will take place and is appropriate for most residents of Linn County.

The "Tree and Tree Trimmings" category is specifically for the burning of trees and tree trimmings not originating on the premises for a burning site operated by a local government entity.  This category is not appropriate for most residents of Linn County with the goal of burning trees, leaves, and tree limbs. 

6. What materials can I legally burn with an Open Burn Permit?

Linn County Code of Ordinances Section 10-63 (https://library.municode.com/ia/linn_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTICOOR_CH10EN_ARTIIIAIQU_S10-63OPBU) itemizes the materials that may be burned legally and the limitations that surround how those materials may be burned. Most Open Burn Permits are issued for "Landscape Wastes," which include grass, leaves, weeds, trees, tree limbs, natural growth for land clearing, and agricultural wastes. Permits are also allowed for disaster rubbish, ceremonial burning, agricultural structures, training fires, and other approved reasons. All permit holders are expected to follow the limitations itemized in their permit and in accordance with the Linn County Code of Ordinances.