Ask a Conservation Officer

[Lee Borgersen]

         Ask a conservation officer! 



Q: I have a few brush piles I meant to burn this winter. Is there still time to burn without a permit? What can I burn?


 


A: The answer to your scenario depends on the snow cover. Burning permits are not required when there is at least 3 inches of continuous snow cover to prevent spread of the fire. Keep in mind that during the spring melt, nearby trees may already be drying out and more flammable.



  ....
Whether you are required to obtain a permit for your situation or not, the permitted items you can burn are the same. Only untreated, unpainted wood, dry leaves, or woody debris and brush may be burned. Treated or painted wood, furniture, mattresses, shingles, building materials, plywood, chipboard, tires, vehicle seats, wire and anything else that emits excessive or noxious smoke may not be burned.


Police officers, sheriff's deputies and conservation officers all enforce Minnesota's open burning regulations. If in doubt, consult with your local fire warden or DNR Forestry Office, or the DNR website at dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/questions.html.

[deadeye]

Still time. This was last Saturday.