Burn permits required starting May 10

BOISE – Beginning May 10, Idahoans must obtain a fire burn permit from the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) before starting debris burning activities. Closed fire season takes place annually between May 10 and extends through October 20.

With the threat of COVID-19, the burn permit system is more important than ever, protecting firefighters by reducing the number of false alarms and allowing fire crews to respond only when truly needed. Having a burn permit on record means fire managers can also respond more quickly to fires that escape. This can also potentially reduce the liability of the burner if their fire escapes.

The burn permit is free of charge, good for 10 days after it is issued, and can be obtained online at burnpermits.idaho.gov. Permits issued through the self- service website are available seven days a week and are immediately issued and valid. A permit may also be issued by calling an IDL office, phone numbers can be found at www.idl.idaho.gov/about-us/supervisory-areas/. Permits are not required for recreational campfires.