LACIE SILVA
Editor
Starting next week burn permits will be required by the Tennessee Division of Forestry for debris burning in areas without local restrictions.
Burn permits are mandatory from October 15 to May 15 for anyone conducting open-air burns within 500 feet of forests, grasslands, or woodlands. These permits, which can be obtained by phone or online, focus on promoting the safe use of fire to prevent wildfires, a leading cause of natural resource damage, property loss, and even fatalities in Tennessee.
The Division of Forestry’s burn permit system is crucial for reducing the risk of wildfires. Careless debris burning is a major contributor to wildfires each year, causing immense damage. To help mitigate this, the burn permit phone line will open on Sunday, October 13, to issue permits in advance for Tuesday, October 15, as long as weather conditions are favorable for safe burning.
The number to call for permits is 877-350-BURN (2876), and lines are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.
Before beginning any burn, residents are urged to follow safety precautions to prevent unintended wildfires. Fire should never be used on windy days, and those conducting burns must ensure weather conditions remain stable. Wide control lines—down to bare soil and at least five feet wide—should be established around burn piles. It is also critical to have fire containment tools like rakes, shovels, and water on hand. State law requires that anyone conducting a burn must stay with the fire until it is fully extinguished. Permits are not needed for burning in containers, such as metal barrels with proper mesh coverings, but local city ordinances may have additional restrictions.
Incorporated cities often have their own regulations regarding burning. Residents should check with local authorities to determine specific guidelines.
Town of Jasper 423 942 3180
Town of Kimball 423 837 7040
City of Monteagle 931 235 1038
City of New Hope 423 837 8581
City of Orme 423 837 3811
City of South Pittsburg 423 837 5012
City of Whitwell 423 658 5151
Violating burn safety regulations can lead to significant fines, with improper outdoor burning potentially resulting in penalties up to $25,000.
The Tennessee Division of Forestry encourages alternatives to burning whenever possible. For instance, leaves and yard trimmings can be composted to create organic matter beneficial for soil, while tree limbs and brush can be chipped or hauled away. The Department of Environment and Conservation also provides guidelines on what materials are prohibited from being burned, including plastics, household trash, and construction debris.
Residents are reminded that the permits are free and that safety precautions are essential to prevent wildfires. For more information about burn permits and safety tips, visit BurnSafeTN.org or contact the local Division of Forestry office at 423-942-3665 for Marion County.
