FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Allen County Board of Commissioners is reminding residents to follow the procedures for burning yard trimmings, leaves, and brush now that fall is right around the corner.

The Board says that under the County’s open-burning rules, burn piles must be at least 20 feet away from structures, roads or power lines. Burning is only permitted between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and must be done during safe weather conditions. Wind speeds should be less than 20 miles per hour and burning cannot take place during a pollution alert day. Only clean wood or untreated wood products, brush and leaves that originated from the property may be burned. The material must be burned in a noncombustible, ventilated container.

Water sources and a shovel should be kept on hand to control a burn if winds unexpectedly fan it into possible trouble. Local or state authorities can demand that any burning be stopped if the fire is determined to be a nuisance, pollution problem or threat to property or public health.