Crime & Safety
Mount Vernon, IL Leaf Burning Starts Oct. 12: Rules to Know
Mount Vernon, IL – Mount Vernon residents planning to burn leaves this fall will have two designated periods beginning in October, with city fire officials reminding residents that several safety rest
By Claire Benton · 2026-09-30T19:51:24.519Z
Mount Vernon, IL – Mount Vernon residents planning to burn leaves this fall will have two designated periods beginning in October, with city fire officials reminding residents that several safety restrictions apply.
According to the City of Mount Vernon Fire Department , the first permitted leaf burning period will run from Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026 . Burning will be allowed only between sunrise and sunset each day.
A second permitted period is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, through Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026 , according to a news release issued Wednesday.
The rules apply within Mount Vernon in Jefferson County in southern Illinois.
Residents may not burn on a public street, public sidewalk or in a drainage ditch located within a public right of way. Burning also is prohibited on property belonging to another person unless written permission has been obtained, according to the fire department.
Every fire must be physically attended at all times by someone who is at least 18 years old.
Even during an approved leaf burning week, residents should check conditions before starting a fire. Fire Chief Chris Yenne may prohibit burning during an otherwise permitted period because of high winds, dry conditions or other factors that could increase the fire risk.
The restrictions are intended to keep outdoor fires supervised and away from public areas while allowing residents limited opportunities to dispose of fallen leaves.
Residents planning to burn should follow the approved dates and daylight hour restrictions and be prepared for burning privileges to be suspended if conditions become unsafe.