Why is open burning of trash and leaves regulated?
• Many harmful chemicals are produced and released into the air when trash and leaves are burned. Some of these chemicals are toxic to people, animals, and plants. In addition, some of these chemicals react with nitrogen oxides in the air to produce ozone especially during hot, sunny weather. This ground-level ozone contributes to smog, haze, and reduced visibility; and is a respiratory irritant that is particularly dangerous to children and the elderly. It can cause serious eye irritation and is one of the main air pollutants that damage crops and natural vegetation. Ozone is also a powerful oxidizing agent that causes bleaching and deterioration of many textiles and building materials. • Outdoor burning often exposes surrounding property to fire hazard. • Outdoor burning often subjects neighboring residents to nuisance conditions of smoke and odor that infringe on their right to enjoy or use their property, and their right to breathe clean air. • Finally, in order to meet the air qua
