September 21, 2026: The burn ban on open burning within the Carthage city limits is being lifted.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Carthage Fire Department Proclaims Support for Countywide Burn Ban
In the interest of public safety and environmental preservation, the Carthage Fire Department announces its full support and enforcement of the Jasper County Commission’s countywide burn ban, effective immediately.
Recent weather patterns have created extremely dry conditions, low relative humidity, and high winds across southwest Missouri. These conditions elevate the risk of rapid, uncontrollable fire spread. To protect our citizens, local property, and emergency personnel, the Carthage Fire Department is temporarily suspending all open burning permits and recreational fire approvals within the city limits.
Our top priority is the safety of the Carthage community. By aligning our city regulations with the county's emergency order, we can drastically reduce the number of preventable, out-of-control fires and ensure our resources remain ready for critical emergencies."
*Key Restrictions Under the Ban:
1. No Open Burning: The burning of yard waste, brush, leaves, limbs, and trash is strictly prohibited.
2. No Recreational Fires: Campfires, bonfires, and open-pit cooking fires are paused within city limits.
3. Permit Suspensions: All previously issued open burning permits are temporarily revoked.
Conditions for Lifting the Ban:
The Carthage Fire Department assures residents that these restrictions are temporary. The department will actively monitor weather trends and re-evaluate the ban in 30 days.
Furthermore, the ban will be lifted earlier in the event of significant regional rainfall and a measurable change in atmospheric conditions, specifically when ambient relative humidity consistently rises above 50%. The Carthage Fire Department thanks all citizens for their cooperation, vigilance, and understanding during this period of heightened fire danger. For questions regarding local burning ordinances or fire safety tips, please contact the Carthage Fire Department administrative offices.
Jason Martin
Fire Chief
Carthage Fire Department
j.martin@carthagemo.gov
417-237-7100
BURN BAN LIFTED
Effective Sept. 21, 2026
Yard Waste Drop-Off Service Restored
Temporary Suspension of Yard Waste Drop-Off
Due to extremely dry conditions and increased fire risk, the City of Carthage Recycling Center has temporarily suspended brush, tree limb, leaves, grass clippings, and other yard waste drop-off services effective September 1, 2026.
The suspension begins today and may continue throughout the week depending on weather conditions. All other Recycling Center services remain available during normal business hours.
For questions, call 417-237-7024.
Cleanup efforts are continuing across Carthage following the June 13 storm, and we’re seeing great progress thanks to both our crews and residents!
✅ Curbside Limb Pickup
Citywide pickup is underway and will conclude on Friday, June 26.
♻️ Recycling Center Hours
Open Tuesday–Saturday | 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
💲 Storm Relief Fee Waiver
Dumping fees are waived through Saturday, June 27
➡️ Applies only to brush and tree debris
➡️ All container fees remain in effect
📊 Progress Update
Over 160 loads of debris collected by the Street Department
1,000+ residents have used the Recycling Center drop-off
☎️ Questions?
Call Public Works at 417-237-7010
Thank you to our crews and community for working together to keep Carthage clean! 💚
Following recent storm activity, the City of Carthage has implemented a debris removal plan to assist residents with cleanup efforts across the community.
The City of Carthage Recycling Center (1309 Oak Hill Rd.) will open be Monday, June 15, then will operate normal business hours (Tuesday thru Saturday) from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to accommodate storm debris disposal.
Please note the Recycling Center will be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Residents who have the ability to transport debris are strongly encouraged to utilize the Recycling Center to help expedite the overall cleanup process.
City crews will begin curbside pickup of tree limbs on Wednesday, June 17th. Crews will conduct a citywide rotation, traveling through all neighborhoods to collect debris. UPDATE: The Street Department will begin curb pickup today, Monday June 15th.
There is no need to call or schedule a pickup, as crews will work systematically through all streets over time.
To ensure safe and efficient collection, residents are asked to follow these guidelines when placing debris at the curb:
Limbs of all sizes will be accepted
Place debris neatly at the back of the curb
Keep all piles clear of mailboxes, fire hydrants, utility poles, and parked vehicles
Proper placement will help crews move quickly and safely throughout the community.
City crews will continue working diligently in the days ahead to complete debris removal efforts. We appreciate the community’s cooperation and patience as cleanup progresses.
The City of Carthage Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Commission is currently reviewing materials provided through a recent grant related to our Historic District. The district was originally established in the 1980s and continues to be one of Carthage’s most visited areas, drawing thousands of tourists each year.
To explore our community’s historic charm firsthand, you can view our Historic Walking Tour and Historic Driving Tour guides here:
• Historic Walking Tour: Downtown Walking Tour Guide
• Historic Driving Tour: Historic Homes Driving Tour Guide
Working alongside city staff, the Commission is evaluating the updated guidelines to ensure they best serve our community and support the preservation of Carthage’s remarkable architectural heritage.
This review is extensive and has already prompted meaningful discussion during the first two work sessions. These meetings are open to the public and will continue into the new year. We appreciate the community’s patience and engagement as this important work moves forward.
