Debris Burning Measure Heads to Governor's Desk

A measure to allow ag producers with land inside city or town limits to burn debris following a natural disaster has cleared its final legislative hurdle. The Senate unanimously approved House amendments to SB 1662 on Monday. The measure, by Sen. Don Barrington and Rep. Shane Jett, now moves to the Governor's desk.

"Oklahoma has fallen victim to so many natural disasters in the last decade including tornadoes, floods and ice storms. We're all too aware of the havoc these types of disasters can play on our trees and other vegetation," said Barrington, R-Lawton. "Most people only have one or two trees in their yards, but ag producers have acres of foliage, and with all of the natural disasters Oklahoma experiences they desperately need special consideration to clear the debris from their land."

Under provisions of the bill, the city or town that the ag producer lives in can determine the type of materials and locations appropriate for burning. Landowners must still comply with all local, state and federal laws regulating burning.

If signed by the Governor, the law would take effect January 1, 2009.