Burn bans in Georgia

Yes — 60 counties in Georgia are currently under a burn ban. The county table above lists each one with its effective date and source.

Georgia runs two independent systems. The Environmental Protection Division (EPD) enforces an annual Summer Open Burning Ban from May 1 through September 30 in 54 named counties, primarily in the metro Atlanta ozone non-attainment area, to reduce ground-level ozone. Separately, and at any time of year, the State Forester (Georgia Forestry Commission) can declare a burn restriction for any county in response to fire danger and drought — this has covered as many as 91 South Georgia counties in 2026. Where both apply to a county, the more restrictive one governs.

May 1 through September 30. Today the rule is in effect.

Burning without a required permit or violating a State Forester restriction is a misdemeanor under O.C.G.A. §§ 12-6-90 and 12-6-92 — up to $1,000 and up to a year in jail under Georgia's general misdemeanor sentencing. Violating EPD's Summer Open Burning Ban is a civil air-quality violation that can carry penalties up to $25,000 per day, separate from any local citation. Escaped fires can trigger liability for suppression costs and property damage on top of either penalty.