Hanover Park bans most open burning

Hanover Park has cleared the air in more ways than one.

Trustees Thursday placed much stricter regulations on open burning in a new law that also clarifies what some called a confusing and contradicting ordinance.

The revised rules prohibit chemically treated lumber and composite wood in addition to the existing ban on garbage, refuse and landscape waste.

Not that residents followed the former ordinance. Fuzzy language proved difficult to determine just what materials could be burned. What constitutes a lawful fireplace or incinerator has also been better defined.

The board didn't pass an all-out ban. Toasting marshmallows, wienie roasts and other campfire festivities are allowed, so long as they're done in open fireplaces such as chimneys, patio warmers and other portable wood burning devices.

The fireplace must also be supervised by an adult and extinguished when left unattended. It needs to be at least 10 feet away from a neighbor's property.

Even police officers and firefighters weren't sure what was permitted or how to enforce the previous statute. Now they have clarity -- and the authority to issue fines between $100 and $750.

The open burning ban is a direct response to a growing number of complaints.

Jerry Kucera recently sounded off on a neighbor who regularly burns tree limbs at all hours. He said he's woken up in the middle of the night choking on smoke. There were days so intolerable he'd go inside, close the windows and call the fire department.

The resulting air pollution causes a health hazard, Kucera added.

Jim Mensinga lives in a densely wooded area of the village and says he has the same problem as Kucera and just as frequent.

But as long as their neighbors used an approved container, the burning was legal under the prior code regardless of the amount of smoke produced.

Sue Kiel implored the village board to allow for recreational activities.

"They were talking about banning the whole thing," she said. "My kids went through Scouts and our whole family enjoys campfires."

Kiel is pleased with the new ordinance, but wishes it omitted one condition -- all burning between midnight and 6 a.m. is banned.

"Both my children are young adults and don't exactly have to be in at midnight," Kiel said. "I don't quite understand the time limit, but I guess it's better than nothing."