Murfreesboro Imposes Open Burn Ban Due to Drought

Murfreesboro mandates burn ban amid drought and fire risk.

The Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department, under the guidance of Fire Marshal Brian Lowe, has implemented a mandatory ban on open-air burning within the city limits effective immediately. This decision comes as a response to ongoing drought conditions and the absence of rain in the weather forecast.

The burn ban restricts the intentional ignition of fires outdoors, a measure deemed necessary to prevent potential hazards given the current environmental conditions. Various factors can trigger a burn ban, including prolonged dry weather, high winds, low humidity, and increased wildfire threats. In addition, air quality concerns may also necessitate such restrictions to safeguard public health.

Marshal Lowe emphasized the importance of the ban, stating, “The burn ban will not be lifted until we receive a significant amount of rain. Current conditions are not safe for burning. We appreciate the public’s cooperation and will announce the end of the ban when conditions improve.”

The burn ban specifically restricts activities such as burning leaves, brush, ditch banks, construction debris, field or grassland, gardens, wooded areas, campfires, outdoor cooking fires, burn barrels, and fire pits.

The duration of the ban remains indefinite and will continue until there is a notable improvement in environmental conditions and a reduced risk of uncontrollable fires. For further updates and details, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels.

Source: Read Original Release

Murfreesboro Fall Leaf Collection Guidelines

Murfreesboro’s annual fall leaf collection service is underway, offering free leaf collection to residents until January 31. Residents should adhere to specific guidelines, such as keeping leaves within 5 to 10 feet of the street without mixing them with large tree limbs or debris. Only biodegradable paper bags are accepted for bagged leaves, and collected leaves are taken to a local mulch site. More information can be obtained by contacting city officials or visiting the designated facilities.