Burn Permits

There are many situations where you need a burn permit. It is always best to check with your local fire department for verification.

The need for a burn permit from the fire department varies depending on where you live. In some areas, you may need a permit to burn any type of debris, while in others, you may only need a permit if you are burning large amounts of debris or if the weather conditions are dry.

Here are some general guidelines for when you may need a burn permit:

1. If you are burning debris, such as leaves, branches, or brush.
2. If you are burning wood or other materials that produce smoke.
3. If you are burning in an area that is prone to wildfires.
4. If the weather conditions are dry or windy.
5. If you are burning near a structure or other flammable object.

If you are unsure whether you need a burn permit, it is always best to check with your local fire department. They will be able to tell you the specific requirements for your area.

Here are some of the reasons why you may need a burn permit:

• To protect your property and the surrounding area from fire.
• To comply with local air quality regulations.
• To ensure that your burn is conducted in a safe and controlled manner.

If you do not have a burn permit and you are caught burning debris, you could face fines or other penalties. In some cases, you could even be arrested.

It is important to remember that even if you do not need a burn permit, you should still take steps to burn safely. This includes making sure that your fire is contained and that you have a water source nearby in case of an emergency. You should also never leave a burning fire unattended.

Safety tips for burning debris:

1. Only burn debris that is dry and free of moisture.
2. Build your fire in a clear, open area away from structures and other flammable objects.
3. Have a water source nearby in case of an emergency.
4. Never leave a burning fire unattended.
5. Be aware of the weather conditions and only burn when it is not windy or dry.

There are situations where you may not need a burn permit. It is always best to check with your local fire department for verification.

Recreational fires do not require a burn permit, however, they must have a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter, and 2 feet or less in height, and be used for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth, or similar purpose.

Regulations for Open Fires:

1. Prohibition on Public Property: It is strictly forbidden to ignite fires on streets, alleys, sidewalks, boulevards, bridges, or any other public property.
2. Supervision Requirement: All open fires and recreational fires must be attended at all times by a responsible individual equipped with a garden hose connected to a water supply or an approved fire extinguisher, readily available for controlling the fire.
3. Distance from Structures: Open fires must be kept a minimum distance of 50 ft. away from any structure or flammable material.
4. Hours of Operation: Open burning is permitted only between sunrise and sunset, and the fire must be fully extinguished before sunset.
5. Burn Days: Burning wood on private property is strictly prohibited unless the Fire Department has officially declared it a “burn day.”
6. Nuisance Fires: If an open fire produces dense smoke or poses a threat to life or property, authorities may require immediate extinguishment.
7. Hazardous Conditions: Open fires will be prohibited during atmospheric conditions, such as high winds, that could make burning hazardous.
8. Land Clearing Restrictions: It is not allowed to burn refuse, wood, trees, brush, or any organic growth with the intent of clearing land for development purposes.