Burn Rules in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Laws for open burning, yard waste fires, and fire pit use
Quick Answer
Open burning laws in Tippecanoe County are regulated by the county, the cities of Lafayette and West Lafayette, and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). Recreational fires are allowed, but burning trash or construction debris is prohibited.
General Burn Rules (Countywide)
• Recreational fires (campfires, fire pits) are allowed
• Fires must be attended at all times
• Must have a method to extinguish the fire
• Only clean, dry wood may be burned
• Burning trash, plastics, or debris is illegal
Lafayette Burn Ordinance
Lafayette restricts open burning except for:
• Small recreational fires
• Cooking fires
• Approved ceremonial fires
Yard waste burning is not allowed within city limits.
Contact: Lafayette Fire Department
Phone: 765-807-1600
West Lafayette Burn Ordinance
Similar to Lafayette:
• No burning of leaves or brush
• Recreational fires allowed in contained fire pits
• No unattended fires
Contact: West Lafayette Fire Department
Phone: 765-775-5170
Unincorporated County Areas
Some limited burning of yard waste may be allowed outside city limits, but rules vary by township and weather conditions.
Check with: Tippecanoe County Health Department
Phone: 765-423-9221
State Regulations (IDEM)
IDEM prohibits:
• Burning household trash
• Burning construction materials
• Open burning during air quality alerts
Full rules: https://www.in.gov/idem/
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I burn leaves in Lafayette or West Lafayette?
A: No. Both cities prohibit burning yard waste.
Q: Do I need a permit for a fire pit?
A: No, if it is a small recreational fire.
Q: Can I burn brush in rural areas?
A: Possibly, depending on conditions—check county rules first.
Summary
Recreational fires are permitted countywide, but burning trash or yard waste is restricted or prohibited depending on location. Always follow city and county guidelines.