Closed burning season ending for Idaho

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - “Closed fire season,” which is otherwise known as the five months of the year that burn permits are legally required in Idaho, ends Friday, Oct. 20.

Burn permits are normally required May 10 through October 20 each year and are issued by the Idaho Department of Lands (IDL).

Idaho law requires any person planning to burn outside city limits within Idaho, including crop residue burning, to obtain a state burn permit during the closed period.

“For areas where debris burning is permitted, although obtaining a burn permit after the closed season ends is not required, there are good reasons to voluntarily apply for the free permit,” IDL Fire Management Chief Josh Harvey said. "No matter the time of year, anyone starting a fire is responsible for that fire until it is out. If your fire gets away, you can be held liable for any property damages and for fire suppression costs.”

For most debris burning, IDL Burn Permits are free and issued immediately upon application online HERE. Permits for burning crop residue are issued by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and available online HERE.

While temperatures have cooled and there has been precipitation, there are still dry fuels on the ground. If you plan to burn debris this fall, continue to use caution.

“Following these simple, common-sense tips can help prevent your fire from escaping, and may help limit your liability if it gets away from you,” Harvey said.

General Burning Guidelines

• Clear all flammable material and vegetation within 10 feet of the outer edge of pile.
• Keep a water supply and shovel close to the burning site.
• A responsible adult is required by law to be in attendance until the fire is out.
• If it’s windy and the surrounding vegetation is very dry, it may be best to wait and burn debris another day.

More information about fire prevention information and burning guidelines can be found HERE.