Press release from CAL FIRE Humboldt – Del Norte Unit:

Effective Friday, November 1st, 2024, at 6:00 AM the burn permit suspension in Humboldt, Del Norte, and Wester Trinity Counties will be lifted. CAL FIRE is formally cancelling the burn permit suspension and advises that those possessing current and valid general (LE-5) or residential (LE-62A) and North Coast Unified Air Quality burn permits can now resume burning on permissible burn days.  

CAL FIRE burn permits will be required until hazardous conditions have abated. Cooler temperatures, higher humidities, and recent rains have helped to begin to diminish the threat of wildfire. Property owners and residents are asked to use caution while conducting debris or agriculture burns, follow all guidelines provided, and maintain control of the fire at all times. Individuals can be held civilly and/or criminally liable for allowing a fire to escape their control and/or burn onto neighboring property. 

CAL FIRE Burn Permits may be obtained online at CAL FIRE BURN PERMITS 

Residents wishing to burn MUST verify it is a permissive burn day prior to burning. 

North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (AQMD) burn permits are required year-round. To obtain an AQMD permit, call (707) 443-3093. 

Pile Burning Requirements 

• Must have a valid AQMD permit prior to burning and only burn on permissive burn days.
• Must have a valid CAL FIRE burn permit until such requirement is lifted. 
• Only dry, natural vegetative material such as leaves, pine needles and tree trimmings may be burned.
• The burning of trash, painted wood or other debris is not allowed. 
• Do NOT burn on windy days 
• Piles should be no larger than what is allowed by permit. You can add to pile as it burns down.
• Clear a 10-foot diameter down to bare soil around your piles. 
• Have a shovel and a water source nearby. 
• An adult is required to be in attendance of the fire at all times. 
• Make all required notifications prior to burning each day. 

Safe residential pile burning of forest residue by landowners is a crucial tool in reducing fire hazards. State, Federal and Local land management and fire agencies will also be utilizing this same window of opportunity to conduct prescribed burns aimed at improving forest health and resiliency on private and public lands. 

For more information on burning, visit the CAL FIRE website at www.fire.ca.gov.