Mercer County, Kentucky
Kentucky's statewide statutory rule applies today: restrictions on residential and open burning are in force. Statewide, within 150 feet of any woodland, brushland, or field containing dry grass. Cities and counties may impose additional bans.
What this means
- Small cooking fires (grill, camp stove)
Penalties in Kentucky
A first violation of KRS 149.400 is a Class B misdemeanor. If a fire escapes and damages property, the responsible party is also liable for suppression costs. County-imposed burn bans may add separate misdemeanor penalties.
Classification: Class B misdemeanor · Maximum fine: up to $250 (statutory) or as set by local ordinance
Recent status history
- Oct 1, 2026 — Partial Restrictions
Sources & audit log
| Checked | Source | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 31, 2026 | Kentucky Division of Forestry ↗ | status: Partial Restrictions |
Neighbouring counties
Notify me when this changes
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Still legal during a ban
None of these are a way around Mercer county's restriction — they're what stays legal regardless of it: contained burning, screened fire pits, and basic fire safety gear. Always confirm locally before burning anything.
Contained burn barrels
A lidded, spark-arrestor barrel keeps debris burning contained rather than as open burning — check your county's rules, since some bans cover any outdoor fire regardless of containment.
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Most burn bans target open debris burning, not a screened recreational fire pit — but always confirm locally, since some restrictions cover any outdoor flame.
Fire extinguishers
Always worth having on hand near any permitted fire, ban or no ban.
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Limits of this information
burnbanradar reads public burn-ban orders as published by Kentucky Division of Forestry and reports them unchanged. Cities and municipalities within Mercer county may impose stricter rules than the county order. Water districts and state forestry rules may add further restrictions. When an order is ambiguous or the source cannot be reached, we show Unconfirmed instead of guessing a status. The county's own posted order governs.
Common questions
Is Mercer county under a burn ban right now?
Partial restrictions apply. Kentucky's statewide rule limits when and where you can burn today. See the "What this means" module above for the specifics.
What can I still burn in Mercer county?
Standard open burning is currently permitted, subject to any municipal ordinance in your area. Never leave a fire unattended, and keep water and a shovel nearby.
How do I report an illegal fire in Mercer county?
Call 911 for any fire that is out of control or threatens property. For a non-emergency burn-ban violation, you can also reach Kentucky Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON (1-800-272-7766) (for suspected wildland arson; call your local KDF office, fire department, or 911 to report a fire in progress), or contact the Mercer Sheriff's Office.