Reminder From McHenry County Department of Health

Restrictions for open burning and alternatives

McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH) reminds residents that burning restrictions are in effect during the months of April, May, October and November to properly dispose of landscape waste on your property. Landscape waste consists of grass or shrubbery cuttings, leaves and tree limbs.  The “McHenry County Public Health Ordinance: Open Burning of Landscape Waste” permits residents to burn landscape waste on weekend days (Saturdays and Sundays) if the burn area meets the setback requirements of at least 100 feet from a school, business, church or house; 50 feet from a barn, shed or detached garage. Most municipalities have ordinances which restrict or prohibit the burning of yard waste. In areas where there is not a ban or more restrictive ordinance, the County ordinance, which is in effect year round, must be followed. 

MCDH encourages a more environmentally sound approach:

Reduce/Reuse - Use a mulching mower for grass and leaves or a chipper for branches. Consider native landscaping that will reduce the need for yard waste. 

Recycle - Composting landscape waste can reduce material volume by 70 - 80% and act as a soil conditioner to improve plant growth.

Licensed municipal waste haulers in McHenry County are required to provide pick up of landscape waste from residential customers although an additional fee may be charged. Some waste haulers contract with municipalities, neighbors and homeowner associations to provide collection services of landscape waste. Residents are encouraged to work collectively with neighbors and associations to arrange the most economical solution for their neighborhood. Residents may also drop off landscape waste at a local facility that composts these materials into organic compounds for reuse. A listing of these services is available at www.mcdh.info, link to Environmental Health, Open Burning, “other alternatives”. The use of alternatives to open burning will improve the air quality for residents of McHenry County.

Communities with ordinances that meet or exceed County standards, as well as those with total bans on burning are also listed. Enforcement of open burning issues should be directed to your local police, fire department or MCDH non-emergency phone numbers. If you are reporting an emergency complaint that is life threatening or is a fire safety issue, CALL 911. Residents may also call the health department’s after-hours phone number 815-344-7421 for assistance.

Complete details about the Ordinance and suggested alternatives are available online the Department’s webpage at www.mcdh.info or by calling 815-334-4585.