Greensburg council is considering enacting a ban on open burning that officials said is aimed at fires involving waste in an effort to control air pollution.
An ordinance is set to be introduced at Monday’s council meeting and may be approved in November.
Solicitor Zachary Kansler said the ordinance would not affect recreational fires, such as in a fire pit or for cooking.
“It’s just for pollution,” he said.
The city is basing its proposed regulation on a model ordinance from the state Department of Environmental Protection. In a September letter to Greensburg, the agency suggested adopting such an ordinance after it had received multiple complaints of open burning in the region.
The burning of certain types of waste is prohibited, according to the DEP, including remnants of demolition, shingles, insulation, mattresses and automobiles and their parts.
“What this is trying to stop is someone burning tires in their yard,” Kansler said.
Anyone found in violation of the ordinance after it is passed could face a fine, a civil penalty and/or jail time.
