05/08/2026
🔥 FOREST FIRE SEASON & WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 🔥
We’ve been hearing some concerns from residents who think backyard campfires are no longer allowed once forest fire season begins.
👉 That’s NOT the case.
Forest fire season simply means extra precautions are in place to prevent wildfires.
✅ Campfires ARE still allowed
❗ You do NOT need a permit for a small campfire
⚠️ BUT – they must be done safely and responsibly
🔥 WHAT DOES REQUIRE A PERMIT?
* Burning grass
* Burning brush or yard debris
* Burning wood piles, paper, or large materials
Permits are free and easy to get, and help reduce wildfire risk. To obtain a burn permit, please contact the Forestry office at 709-729-4180
🔥 SAFE CAMPFIRE PRACTICES (THIS IS THE IMPORTANT PART):
If you’re having a backyard fire, make sure you:
• Keep fires on soil, gravel, or sand only
• Check the daily fire hazard rating before lighting
• Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby
• Never leave your fire unattended
• Keep the fire small and controlled
• Fully extinguish the fire before leaving (soak, stir, repeat)
• Avoid burning on windy days
🔥 HELP PREVENT WILDFIRES
A few simple actions go a long way:
• Don’t burn grass – it spreads fast and unpredictably
• Keep wood piles away from structures
• Trim grass and remove dry debris
• Ensure ATVs and chainsaws have spark arrestors
🚒 Forest fire season isn’t about stopping you from enjoying your backyard. It’s about keeping our community, our forests, and our firefighters safe.
Let’s all do our part.