DNR Lifts Special Burn Permits

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced that the special burning permit requirement for 13 Wisconsin counties has been lifted as of today (Saturday). The rescinding of this Special Fire Order applies to the following 13 extensive DNR protection area counties outside incorporated cities and villages: All of Columbia, Crawford, Green Lake, Marquette, Portage, Richland, Sauk, Waupaca, Waushara counties and portions of Oconto, Dane, Grant and Iowa counties.

A Special Fire Order allows the DNR to suspend burning when fire danger is elevated. Due to prolonged drought conditions, the original permit reinstatement went into effect on Oct. 15.

According to the National Weather Service, moderate-to-severe drought conditions impacted Wisconsin in late summer and fall. Recent soaking rain events combined with cooler weather across the state have decreased the overall fire danger across the state, allowing the DNR to cancel the Special Fire Order. Traditionally, DNR burn permits are required in extensive protection areas from January 1 through May 31, anytime the ground is not snow-covered.

Despite the improved conditions, the public is still encouraged to exercise caution when having any kind of fire, as the fire danger changes daily, and it’s important to check with local fire officials before conducting any outdoor burning.