April burn plan – what you need to know

Published on March 01, 2026

Are you planning to burn off any brush or piles of yard debris before spring? Make sure you do so in the next couple of weeks. A State of Kansas regulated burn ban is in effect during the month of April. 

Each April, special burning restrictions go into effect as part of the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan. The Flint Hills region is home to one of the last stretches of native prairie in the United States, and prescribed burns during April play an important role in maintaining this unique ecosystem.

To help protect air quality during these burns, Kansas limits certain types of open burning. This includes a prohibition on burning non-pasture (ungrazed) grasslands and the suspension of existing burn permits, unless burns meet specific Kansas Department of Health and Environment requirements.

The good news for Lenexa residents: recreational fires such as backyard fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are still allowed when used safely and according to local guidelines.

What else triggers a burn ban to go in effect? Burn bans may also be issued due to high winds, dry weather or when conditions are not favorable.

Learn more about Lenexa burn permits