Burn Permit FAQ
Burn Permits
Over 90% of all wildfires in Maine occur between 9am and 5pm, when the temperatures are warmest the wind picks up and the relative humidity drops. Since the “wait to burn until after 5pm” policy has been in effect, there has been a significant decrease in escaped debris burns.
Yes, you can burn after 5pm (and before 9am) depending on the town of your burn location. during the 24 hour time period as long as the predicted fire rating is low or moderate. The permit holder is responsible for checking the predicted fire danger rating each day before they burn. Please check the Forest Service website for the predicted class day.
Please note, it is unlawful to allow your brush pile to burn between 9am and 5pm unless there is a steady rain or the ground is completely covered by snow.
No, as soon as you request the online permit, you only have 24 hours to complete your burn. This is because the weather could change and the predicted fire danger rating could increase to a HIGH fire danger rating. Please note, online burn permits are only valid during a low or moderate fire rating.
The online burn permit system was designed to provide a convenient way to obtain a burn permit from your computer or cell phone. You can still get a handwritten burn permit from your local Town Fire Warden for free. If you live in an unorganized township, you can get a handwritten burn permit from the nearest Ranger station or Regional office without charge.
No, this system is only for burning brush, wood debris and grass/agricultural fields. Contact the nearest MFS Regional office for information on obtaining campfire permits.
Yes, when you request an online burn permit, you are required to print the permit and by law, have it with you at the burn site. If you request it on a mobile device and don't have a printer, technically, you are in violation of title 12 S 9321-A. It is up to the Forest Ranger or other law enforcement office that checks your permit whether you will be issued a summons. If you request your permit on a mobile device, we recommend printing the permit at a friend's house or at the local library.
The rules/guidelines for allowable open burning in Maine are posted on the Maine Forest Service website, Rules and Regulations. Please refer to these or call the Maine Forest Service or your local fire department for more information. In general, you cannot burn trash, paint, metal, plastic or pressure treated wood (i.e., anything that creates unhealthy smoke).
If the local Town Fire Warden has logged onto the system and entered his/her email address, they will be notified. The local Forest Ranger, MFS Regional Headquarters and Regional Communication Centers will also have access to the system to monitor online burn permits.