As waste-disposal costs increase, Pima County Department of Environmental Quality reminds residents that burning trash is illegal in Pima County.
The Department of Environmental Quality and local fire district inspectors can cite residents who burn garbage on their property and $400 fines can be imposed if the illegal behavior is not stopped.
Backyard garbage burning releases harmful chemicals into the air that can also remain in the ash. When burned, plastics, polystyrene (such as styrofoam cups), bleached or colored paper and pressure-treated wood can produce smoke containing arsenic, dioxins and furans that are hazardous to human health.
People exposed to the smoke could experience burning eyes and nose, coughing, nausea, headaches or dizziness. In addition, smoke can trigger asthma episodes. Children and animals playing in areas where the ash has been disposed can be contaminated with chemicals that remain in the ash.
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Proper disposal of garbage at landfills or transfer stations, or by hiring a certified solid waste hauler, is the safest and most environmentally friendly way to handle trash.
Report illegal burning
To file a complaint about garbage burning, contact the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality at 740-3340 or go online to www.deq.pima.gov.
If there is an immediate fire danger or health concern from illegally burning garbage, contact 911.
