Learn to Burn Safely

Wildland fires caused from people burning in barrels, pits, slash piles, or agricultural burning is a common problem in Idaho. On average, about one out of every five human-caused wildfires is started by someone burning debris and trash. Many escaped fires are illegally started due to people violating burn restrictions enforced during high fire danger months. Burn permits may be required or burning may be halted due to fire danger. The Department of Environmental quality may also impose further burning restrictions due to air quality.

In order to avoid costly fines and citations, make sure you know where and when burning is allowed. It is also important to call your local fire department before you burn to get all the facts and information you need to conduct your burn safely. If you live outside a fire district, contact your county sheriff’s department for further instructions on how to obtain a burn permit. Failure to get a burning permit beforehand may result in an unnecessary response from your local fire department. Also, find out what is OK to burn and what is NOT OK to burn.

During the closed season in Idaho, between May 10th and October 20th every year, burn permits are required. To learn more about safe burning practices, consult your BLM, USFS, IDL or local Fire Department office. Remember the steps you take before you strike make all the difference. There are simple precautions that you can take to prevent escaped fires.

Burning Guidelines

There are specific guidelines for agricultural, debris, and burn barrel/incinerator burning that you will need to be aware of, but whatever type of burning you are considering, think before you strike:

1. Obtain a burn permit when needed and comply with the conditions of that permit.
2. Make sure you will be in compliance with local air quality regulations.
3. Watch the weather. Avoid burning on windy, hot, and dry days. Wait to burn if: winds are over 8mph, temperature is above 80 degrees, and thunderstorm activity is predicted.
4. Have tools, shovels and a supply of water or fire extinguisher on hand.
5. Be prepared to stay and monitor your fire until it is out.
6. Never leave any fire unattended!

Who is responsible?

Anyone starting a fire is responsible for that fire until it is out! If your fire gets away, you can be held responsible and liable for any property damages and for fire suppression costs.