Forks Township Issues a Ban on Open Burning

Over the last several weeks, The National Weather Service has issued “Red Flag Warnings," which means the conditions are perfect for uncontrolled fires to spread.

Northampton County Emergency Management has also issued a Red Flag warning this week, and in response, has instituted a "burn ban" until further notice.

Homeowners are not allowed to start open fires because meteorological conditions – strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures – can “create explosive fire growth potential.”

Generally, Forks Township does allow homeowners have open fires on their properties; however, supervisors will be voting soon to possibly repeal the township's burn ordinance so that open burning would be illegal at all times.

This move is to help align the township with -- the state regulation overseeing local recycling and hazardous waste ordinances. Jim Farley, Forks' finance manager, said the township would be eligible for more grant money for its recycling program from the state if it bans open burning permanently.