OPEN BURNING INFO:

State law requires that you notify the Forestry Commission prior to burning outdoors. In most cases, the law applies to burning leaves, limbs and branches that you clean up from your yard. This applies to Pawleys Retreat as we are not in the city limits.

The toll-free number below allows you a quick, easy way to make your yard debris burning notification. Just dial the appropriate number, listen to the message, and leave your name, address and phone number.

The law requires that you clear a firebreak around the burning site and have the right equipment available to keep the fire under control. You must also stay with the fire until it is completely safe.

1-800-986-5256

(FAQ)

Do I need a burning permit?
South Carolina doesn't issue burning permits, but if you plan to burn outside town or city limits, the law requires you to notify the Forestry Commission before starting the fire. When you call and leave your information it confirms that your burn complies with the safety precautions prescribed by state law.

If I notify before burning, can I still get in trouble if my fire gets away?
Yes. It is against the law to allow a fire to escape. If your escaped fire burns someone else's property, you may also be held responsible for damages in civil court.

Georgetown County by Ordinance has adopted the Fire Prevention Code which requires notification. We do not require an additional permit number, so all one has to do after obtaining the Forestry permit is call 527 – 6763 and provide the information and location to our dispatcher.

Without exception, under the new open burning regulations it is illegal to burn:
Household garbage and trash, Paper, Motor and waste heating oils, Roofing Materials such as shingles and tar, Tires and other rubber products, Plastics, Paints, Household cleaners, Farm Chemicals, Electric wire, Insulation and duct work.

Complaints regarding nuisance burning may be referred to the Myrtle Beach office of the Environmental Quality Control (EQC) 238-4378