KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture announced Monday that it will require burning permits statewide beginning Tuesday, October 15.

State residents will need a permit from the Division of Forestry before burning leaves or natural vegetation, including debris generated by Hurricane Helene.

“Due to the large amount of woody debris from Hurricane Helene and other recent storms across the state, we expect more outdoor burning than usual this year,” Forester said. State Heather Slayton. “Since escaping burned debris is the leading cause of wildfires, it is important that Tennesseans take fire safety seriously. Burn permits are required by law and are a tool through which we help citizens understand when and how to burn.

Permits will only be issued when the state determines the burn is safe. If conditions are deemed unsafe due to hazardous conditions such as high winds or extreme drought, the forestry division said it will suspend issuing burn permits and resume once conditions improve.

Burning permits are free and can be obtained online or using the MyTN mobile app. Online permits are issued 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Officials said you still need to obtain a permit on the day you intend to burn leaves, brush or debris of any size or conduct a prescribed burn.

Each fire must be completely extinguished when the permit expires and no fire must be left unattended at any time, officials said. Burning without a permit is a class C misdemeanor subject to prosecution.

Although online applications are encouraged, residents with limited internet access may call 877-350-BURN (2876) to apply for a permit Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

If you live within city limits, officials advised you to check with your municipality for additional restrictions before burning.

The following tips should be followed when it is safe to conduct a debris burn:

• Inform your local fire department and neighbors of your intention to burn.
• Don’t burn on windy days.
• Choose a location away from flammable materials and buildings.
• Keep fire containment equipment handy (e.g., rake, shovel, water).
• Stay near the fire until it is completely extinguished.

Information on burning debris from natural disasters, as well as a list of materials whose burning is prohibited, is available online.

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