Air Quality Bureau
Other Types of Open Burning
Unrestricted Open Burning (see section 109 of the regulation, 20.2.60.109 NMAC)
There are no rules or restrictions on several types of burning, including:
- recreational or ceremonial (including campfires, bonfires and other fires associated with ceremonies);
- barbecuing and other noncommercial cooking of food for human consumption;
- in fireplaces for heating purposes;
- for warming by small wood fires at construction sites;
- some natural gas flares, when necessary to avoid safety hazards.
Firefighter Training (see section 112, 20.2.60.112 NMAC)
Burning of materials and structures for training of bona fide firefighting and fire-rescue personnel is allowed, provided that:
- all regulated asbestos-containing material is removed, and
- the Environment Department is notified prior to burning (contact the Air Quality Bureau's Asbestos Section at 505-955-8076, 505-955-8011, or 1-800-224-7009).
Air Quality Bureau Asbestos web page (with notification form)
Emergency Burning (see section 114, 20.2.60.114 NMAC)
This provision is intended to cover genuine emergencies such as tanker spills. Open burning is allowed for eliminating an imminent danger to public health and safety, provided that:
- there is no other way to eliminate or abate the hazard;
- as determined by an emergency response specialist, there is a need for immediate action;
- the burning is in compliance with all other laws and regulations; and
- the Environment Department is notified as soon as possible, but at least within two weeks after the burning.
Hazardous Waste (see section 113, 20.2.60.113 NMAC)
Open burning of hazardous waste is allowed only when this is done in compliance with Hazardous Waste (RCRA) regulations and permits. The only kind of hazardous waste this would apply to would be explosives and propellants.