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(Boise) – Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) has announced the extension of the closed fire season, requiring burn permits statewide beyond the original end date of October 20, 2024. This decision comes in response to unseasonably warm, dry weather and increasingly hazardous fuel conditions, which continue to elevate the risk of wildfires.
Under Idaho Code §38-115, IDL's director is granted the authority to regulate burning activities during the closed fire season. Director Dustin Miller directed the state forester to issue a proclamation extending the closed the fire season.
Typically, the closed fire season runs from May 10 to October 20 each year, during which burn permits are required for any open burning outside of city limits. However, due to the ongoing high fire danger and a decrease in firefighting resources as seasonal crews wrap up, burn permits will remain mandatory until further notice.
“Conditions across Idaho remain dry and volatile, and our firefighting resources are limited this fall,” said Craig Foss, IDL State Forester. “We are asking the public to remain vigilant and ensure all fires, including campfires and debris burning, are fully extinguished. The extended closed fire season is critical to minimizing the potential for human-caused wildfires.”
During this extended period, anyone conducting burn activities must obtain a free burn permit through the Idaho Department of Lands website www.burnpermits.idaho.gov.
Burn permits are crucial in helping local fire agencies monitor controlled burns and ensure that fire danger remains manageable. Each fire protection district assesses local fire danger to determine which types of burning, if any, are allowed—burning of any type may be prohibited.
Steps for Idaho Residents:
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Obtain a Burn Permit: Visit www.burnpermits.idaho.gov to acquire a free burn permit, valid for up to 10 days.
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Check Local Conditions: Ensure that local fire restrictions do not further limit burning activities in your area.
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Follow Best Practices: Use extreme caution during any burn activities, never leave a fire unattended, and always have sufficient water and tools to fully extinguish it.
The Idaho Department of Lands reminds all residents that by working together and following these guidelines, we can reduce the risk of wildfires and help protect Idaho’s lands and communities.
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