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Politics & Government

Dry Weather Causes Geneva to Ban Open Burning, St. Charles Officials Holding Off on Measure

The city of Geneva is banning open burning temporarily

Although the Geneva Fire Department passed a temporary ban on open burning, St. Charles Fire officials are only urging caution at this time.

Joe Schelstreet, assistant fire chief for St. Charles Fire Department, said although conditions are dry, they are not ready to enforce any kind of ban on burning. However, he urged residents use caution with any kind of fire due to the dry conditions. He said sparks from a fire pit or a burning cigarette can cause a grass or brush fire.

"You don't think about lawns catching on fire, but right now it's dry enough to do so," Schelstreet said.

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In Geneva though, officials are taking a harder line. Due to drought levels and extremely warm temperatures, city officials passed an until further notice. Lifting the ban will be based in part on "a significant change in the current drought conditions," a city email said.

"The ban includes fire pits, portable fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces without a spark arrestor and campfires. Residents are also reminded that the use of any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device is illegal under state statute," Geneva's Deputy Fire Chief Jerry Koster said in an email. "We want people to enjoy the outdoors, but the danger is too high to be taking chances with open fire at this time."

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Violaters of the Geneva ban could be subject to a fine up to $750. Individuals or groups responsible for causing a fire may also be held liable for suppression costs.

Earlier this month St. Charles officials Independence Day fireworks, but timely rains provided enough moisture for the pyrotechnics. However, West Chicago , due to the drought conditions.

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