No. Burning trash in Costa Rica is generally prohibited under environmental laws, with exceptions for agricultural waste under strict conditions. Violations may result in fines or criminal charges under the Ley de Gestión Integral de Residuos and Ley de Biodiversidad. Local municipalities and the Ministerio de Ambiente y Energía (MINAE) enforce these rules, with heightened scrutiny in protected zones.
Key Regulations for Burning Trash in Costa Rica
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Prohibition on Municipal Waste: Burning household, commercial, or non-agricultural waste is illegal nationwide, enforced by MINAE and municipal ordinances. Violators face fines up to ₡5 million (~$9,000 USD) under Decreto Ejecutivo No. 41777-MINAE.
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Agricultural Waste Exceptions: Burning crop residues (e.g., sugarcane, coffee) is permitted only with prior authorization from the Dirección de Gestión de Calidad Ambiental (DIGECA) and during designated “burn windows” to minimize air pollution. Non-compliance risks revocation of permits.
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Protected Areas & Dry Zones: Burning is strictly banned in national parks, biological corridors, and cantons with high air pollution (e.g., Valle Central), per Ley No. 7554 and Decreto Ejecutivo No. 36749-MINAE. Offenders may face criminal liability under Ley de Biodiversidad.
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2026 Compliance Shifts: MINAE’s 2024-2026 Plan Nacional de Gestión de Residuos tightens enforcement, mandating alternatives like composting or waste-to-energy for organic waste. Municipalities must adopt zero-burning policies by 2026 or risk losing environmental funding.