Forest Technician, Lain Casteel reminds us, “If you are planning to do any outdoor burning from October 15 through May 15 you will need to check with the Tennessee Department of agriculture, Division of Forestry first.” State Law requires anyone starting an open air-fire near any forests, woodlands or grasslands must first secure a burning permit. Burning permits can be obtained by calling your local office of the Division of Forestry. In Polk County permits may be obtained by calling (423) 338-8395, (423) 263-7181 or (423) 496-4339, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“The permits are free and all the information can be taken over the phone,” said Casteel. In some cases permits will not be issued due to extreme fire hazard or unsafe burning conditions.

Escaped debris fires are the major cause of wildfires in Tennessee. The permit systems allows the forest service to let people know when conditions are unsafe to do any outdoor burning. It also helps to reduce the number of false alarm runs because personnel at the fire tower knows which smokes are controlled burns.

The burning permit does not relive the burner from any liability should the fire escape control lines. You can be held liable for any damages that the fire may cause if it does escape, including the costs to suppress the fire.

Local ordinances may govern the setting of fires within city limits. Residents in these areas should check with local authorities before doing any burning.

For more information or to obtain a burning permit call the Division of Forestry office in your county, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In Polk County, the numbers are (423) 338-8395, (423) 263-7181 or (423) 496-4339.