As autumn leaves cover lawns in Park Forest, local officials are reminding residents that burning leaves is prohibited under Village code and may violate state environmental regulations.
Illinois law does not impose a statewide ban on leaf burning, but state rules restrict open burning in densely populated areas. Under Illinois Environmental Protection Agency regulations, any municipality or area within one mile of a town with 1,000 or more residents is considered a “restricted area.” In these areas, only landscape waste generated on the property may be burned, and only under conditions permitted by local ordinances.
In Park Forest, the Village’s code limits what can be burned outdoors. Fire pits may be used only with “clean, dry, non-painted or treated” wood. Burning leaves, paper, garbage, or other debris is prohibited.
Deputy Fire Chief Taylor Bordewyk said dry weather can cause even small piles of burning leaves to spread quickly.
“A small pile of leaves can turn into a dangerous blaze in seconds,” Bordewyk said. “Smoke from burning leaves also affects air quality and can aggravate respiratory conditions.”
According to the Illinois EPA, burning leaves releases pollutants including benzene, formaldehyde, and dioxins. These substances can contribute to air pollution and may pose health risks to sensitive groups such as children, older adults, and people with asthma.
Smoke from open burning can also reduce visibility on streets and interfere with nearby firefighting operations. In several nearby municipalities, open burning of leaves, brush, or garbage is also prohibited, with penalties that may include fines or misdemeanor charges.
Park Forest provides curbside yard waste collection as an alternative to burning. Residents can place yard waste in brown biodegradable bags marked with Village stickers. Stickers cost $3.30 each and are available for purchase at Village Hall through the Water Department.
“Proper disposal options are available for residents,” Bordewyk said. “The goal is to prevent unnecessary fires and maintain air quality in the community.”
Residents with questions about open burning or yard waste collection can contact the Park Forest Fire Department or the Village’s Code Enforcement Division.