Joplin Fire Department offers advice on handling leaves

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

Fall has arrived in Joplin and we are seeing leaves change color and begin to fall which means it is time to begin thinking about the best way to clean up your yard for the winter months. 

The Joplin Fire Department does not encourage the open burning of leaves simply because the smoke can be challenging to those with respiratory conditions and more importantly top fuels such as leaves and dead grass can be hard to control this time of year regardless of rain amounts in recent weeks. 

Top fuels dry out very quickly and seasonal shifting winds and wide ranges in temperatures can cause any outdoor burning to become out of control quickly and damage your property or your neighbors.

 
The City of Joplin provides a leaf pickup service every year that will begin the week after Thanksgiving. 

All city residents are encouraged to place their leaves at the curb to be picked up by our Public Works and Parks Departments. Information about the program, including a map showing the order crews work through can be found at https://www.joplinmo.org/leafpickup so you will be aware of when to have your leaves to the curb.

 
If you plan to burn your leaves, then the City of Joplin requires that you have a burn permit in your possession to burn small piles of vegetation. A burn permit can be purchased for $10 at any Joplin Fire Station (check only) or at City Hall Finance Department (cash, card, or check). 

Each day, the Joplin Fire Department will determine if burning will be allowed based on the predicted weather conditions. You can find out if outdoor burning is allowed by calling 417-624-0820 ext. 1397. Burning is not allowed on days when winds are higher than 15 mph, humidity is below 30%, or if rain is expected.