For Immediate Release:
From the State of Vermont, Department of Environmental Conservation, Agency of Natural Resources
ILLEGAL TRASH BURNERS TO GET TICKETS
WATERBURY—Burning trash is not only harmful and illegal but it is getting more expensive. The State and municipalities now have the power to issue tickets and fine violators up to $500 for illegal trash burning. This includes burning trash outdoors in piles or burn barrels, or in woodstoves or enclosed incinerators.
The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation is sending information to the towns to help them enforce the new law that provides for a penalty of up to $500, community roadside cleanup, and the loss of hunting or fishing licenses for up to one year if the penalty is not paid.
“The goal of our ‘Don’t Burn Vermont’ outreach program is to educate Vermonters about the harmful effects of trash burning,” said Jeffrey Wennberg, Environmental Conservation Commissioner. “People need to realize that burning trash is harmful and illegal. When we can get that word out, we know most people will obey the law. But if they don’t, we now have additional regulatory tools for enforcement.”
Burnng trash sends harmful pollutants into the air and is especially toxic for children, the elderly, and people with asthma and other lung diseases. Under the new law, enforcement may be brought by duly authorized officials of municipalities or solid waste management districts, environmental enforcement officers employed by the Agency of Natural Resources, or by an authorized law enforcement officer.
“This law applies only to burning trash and not yard waste,” Wennberg said. “It applies to treated wood, plastics, newspapers, electronic products, garbage, cardboard, fabrics, tires, and the like.”
“Most Vermonters dispose of their household trash properly,” he added. “For the few that still burn trash illegally, we expect these new enforcement powers to help close the gap.”
For more information the public can go to www.dontburnvt.org or contract Philip Etter at (802) 241-3847.