Statewide burn permit requirement period begins

Idaho residents seeking to conduct a controlled burn will need a permit now through Oct. 20. 

Residents can obtain a free permit through the Idaho Department of Lands at burnpermits.idaho.gov. Some cities and jurisdictions have alternative or additional requirements; contact your municipality before starting a burn.

An IDL permit is required for burns in all areas of the state outside of city limits. Campfires do not need to be permitted. Sandpoint area residents with questions can contact the local IDL office at 208-263-5104. 

In the city of Sandpoint, a burn permit is required year-round for any controlled burn. Permits can be acquired at sandpointidaho.gov/fire/page/permits or by stopping by City Hall. Residents must contact the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality each day before burning to ensure there are no restrictions. 

Intentional burns that become uncontrolled are a common cause of wildfires. According to Idaho Firewise, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing wildfire hazards within the state, residents seeking to initiate a controlled burn can minimize risk by avoiding burns when the wind speed is greater 8 mph, the temperature is above 80 degrees or thunderstorm activity is predicted. 

Additionally, the organization recommends monitoring fires until they are completely out, making a firebreak and tools and water on hand to control a burn.