State-issued open burn ban back in effect.

Burning prohibited until Sept. 30.

MILTON, GA., May 4, 2010 - Due to a high number of questions from citizens, City of Milton Fire Marshal Matthew Marietta would like to inform everyone the state-issued open burning ban began May 1.

The ban, which is issued by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division (EPD), Air Protection Branch, lasts until Sept. 30.

According to EPD, the ban stops all outdoor burning to comply with federal clean air regulations. During the summer months in Georgia, ozone in the air can reach unhealthy levels. EPD has identified open burning as a significant contributor of the pollutants that form ozone. Consequently, open burning in metro Atlanta and larger counties must be restricted during the summer months.

"We at the City of Milton appreciate our residents abiding by this ban," said Marietta. "It not only helps with air pollution, but also mitigates the risk of out-of-control brush and forest fires that could take valuable public resources to combat."

Marietta said he is available at 678-242-2570 and matthew.marietta@cityofmiltonga.us if citizens have further questions concerning the total outdoor ban.

NOTE: Accessmilton.com did call the city asking if grilling out is banned. It is not.