Burn Permits
Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation
Open Burning and Weather Awareness in Vermont
Mid to late spring is considered the peak fire season in Vermont, with 75% of all fires during a given year typically occurring in April and May. Open burns can get out of control quickly in dry conditions like Vermont is seeing now, and it becomes even more hazardous if winds are blowing.
All open burning must have a Permit to Kindle Fire from the town Forest Fire Warden. The Fire Warden has the right to restrict open burning when fuels and weather conditions may enhance the potential for wildfires. In addition to obtaining a burn permit, you should also clear the area around a pile of all flammable material, never leave the fire unattended, have a hose and tools such as a shovel or rake on hand, burn only natural vegetative material, and call 911 immediately if the fire gets out of control.
Wildfires burn more than just trees and Smokey Bear’s reminder that “only you can prevent wildfires” is very important this time of year across Vermont.
Open Burning and Weather Awareness in Vermont
Mid to late spring is considered the peak fire season in Vermont, with 75% of all fires during a given year typically occurring in April and May. Open burns can get out of control quickly in dry conditions like Vermont is seeing now, and it becomes even more hazardous if winds are blowing.
All open burning must have a Permit to Kindle Fire from the town Forest Fire Warden. The Fire Warden has the right to restrict open burning when fuels and weather conditions may enhance the potential for wildfires. In addition to obtaining a burn permit, you should also clear the area around a pile of all flammable material, never leave the fire unattended, have a hose and tools such as a shovel or rake on hand, burn only natural vegetative material, and call 911 immediately if the fire gets out of control.
Wildfires burn more than just trees and Smokey Bear’s reminder that “only you can prevent wildfires” is very important this time of year across Vermont.
Before you light that burn pile in your back yard, make sure you are prepared and have received a permit to burn.
Additional resources: http://fpr.vermont.gov/forest/fires/prevent
Town of Thetford Waste Burning Ordinance
- In order to get a burn permit, please call Chad Whitcomb at 802-356-2100, or Mariah Whitcomb at 802-291-1445. You can also submit a request through our electronic form: BURN PERMIT REQUEST
- There is no cost for the permit, but you are required to have one in place prior to burning anything outdoors either through the emailed form or by speaking directly with the Fire Warden or his designees. Burn permits will not be given through text.
- Keep a close eye on weather conditions. Yes, you may have a permit, but if a sudden wind comes up, it’s just not wise to burn. People often tell us they are amazed at how quickly a small brush fire can spread, endangering houses and property. Even when there is no wind, keep your fire at least 50 feet from any structures.
- Be sure you have sufficient help and tools on hand to control the fire. High on your list should be a garden hose, shovel, rake and dirt or sand that can be put on the fire.
- Remember that you can burn only natural wood materials. Burning treated wood, trash, rubber, plastics or debris is against the law. You are also not allowed to use accelerants such as gasoline or diesel fuel to start your fire. If you have questions, please ask us about this – it’s for everybody’s protection, and it’s the law.
- Never leave your fire unattended for any reason and make sure to fully extinguish it before dark. Make sure it is completely out before you leave the area.
Additional resources: http://fpr.vermont.gov/forest/fires/prevent
Town of Thetford Waste Burning Ordinance
