Backyard Burning Now Illegal on All Hawaii Islands

Burning trash in yards has been illegal on Oahu since 1973 and it’s now illegal on all of Hawaii’s islands.

The state Department of Health announced Monday rules have been amended to restrict open burning of trash and green waste, commonly known as “backyard burning.”

Violating the open burning rules can lead to fines of up to $10,000 per violation per day.

State officials say with improved trash services, recycling and composting across Hawaii, it’s no longer necessary to burn trash in yards.

There were certain exceptions, including agricultural burning with a permit and attended fires for cooking food.

Officials warn that backyard burning creates health risks from smoke and air pollution and is a fire hazard.