Debris Burning, Burn Permits

During permissible burn periods, burn permits are issued by:

North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD)
2300 Myrtle Ave, Eureka, CA 95501
(707) 443-3093, FAX (707) 443-3099
www.ncuaqmd.org

Permit applications can be obtained (not issued) through participating local fire protection agencies and CalFire stations.

Burn permit requirements are similar to the following (see your permit for details):

• Maximum pile size is 4 feet in diameter.
• Clear all flammable material and vegetation within 10 feet of the outer edge of the pile.
• Keep a water supply close to the burning site.
• An adult should be in attendance with a shovel until the fire is out.
• No burning shall be undertaken unless weather conditions (particularly wind) are such that burning can be considered safe.
• No household trash or garbage can be burned outdoors at residences. Dry, natural vegetation, grown on the property, can be burned outdoors in open piles.

• Burn permits are only valid on "Permissive Burn Days" as determined by the Air Pollution Control District (NCUAQMD). For Burn Day Information, call 866-BURN-DAY [866-287-6329] (toll-free). (You will need to specify the "zone", which is on your permit.)
• Burning is permitted only when a valid AQMD burn permit is in the possession of the responsible party at the burn site and only on permissive burn days.
• A valid AQMD burn permit must be shown to a public officer or fire official upon request.
• All burning must comply with Federal, State, County and local fire protection agency burn requirements.
• Do not start burning until you have a valid permit in your possession.
• Permits expire on December 31st of the year they are issued.

Burn permits are not required for small recreational or ceremonial campfires on your own property. However, "Campfire Permits are required for open fires, such as campfires, barbecues and portable stoves on federally controlled lands and private lands that are the property of another person." Campfire permits can be obtained online, or at the Weaverville USFS headquarters.