No, open burning of household trash is prohibited statewide under Wyoming’s Air Quality Standards (Chapter 6, Section 11), enforced by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ). Exceptions exist for agricultural burning with permits, but municipal waste incineration remains illegal. Local ordinances, such as those in Laramie County, may impose additional restrictions, including burn bans during high ozone or particulate matter alerts.
Key Regulations for Burning Trash in Wyoming
- Permit Requirements: Agricultural or land-clearing burns require a permit from the WDEQ’s Air Quality Division, with site-specific approvals for smoke management.
- Prohibited Materials: Burning plastics, tires, treated wood, or electronics is explicitly banned under WDEQ’s open burning rules, aligning with federal EPA standards.
- Seasonal Restrictions: Burn bans are common during summer wildfire season (May–September), enforced by county fire wardens and the Wyoming State Forestry Division.
Local jurisdictions, such as the City of Cheyenne, may impose stricter rules, including total burn prohibitions in urban areas. Violations can result in fines up to $10,000 under WDEQ’s enforcement protocols. For compliance, consult the WDEQ’s Burn Permit Portal or contact county environmental health departments. Recent 2026 updates emphasize electronic waste disposal alternatives, phasing out exemptions for small-scale trash burning.