Burn barrels are only authorized in certain rural areas where homeowners are allowed to use a burn barrel to contain an open outdoor fire in addition to the burning of non-glossy paper and cardboard. Areas allowed a burn barrel exemption were granted to the District by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The exemption allows burn barrels in certain authorized rural areas of Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity counties that do not have garbage service/recycling.

The exempted areas are determined by zip code and are based on population density and location. Currently, the areas where burn barrels are allowed (exempted areas) are:

An Air Quality Burn Permit must be obtained. The District will determine your exemption status when your permit is issued.