OSKALOOSA — An open burning ban has taken effect in Mahaska County as of this morning.

The office of the Iowa State Fire Marshal says they received a request from Oskaloosa Fire Chief Scott Vaughan to prohibit open burning in the county, and that after an investigation, the Fire Marshal found that conditions in Mahaska County are such that open burning constitutes a danger to life or property.

Effective today, no one in Mahaska County should engage in open burning except as specifically permitted by Iowa Code, until the dangerous burning conditions no longer exist. 

Fire pits, BBQs, and grills are excluded from the ban as long as they are attended at all times and completely put out before going inside.

For questions, contact the Oskaloosa Fire Department at 641-673-3541.