As spring proceeds, the Division of Forestry reminds Alaskans that burn permits are required during summer months for the burning of woody debris, brush, and grasses.
Fire Prevention Officer Darren Finley with the Soldotna Division of Forestry offered a few reminders about open burning.
Finley: “Make sure to remember that open burn piles must be surrounded by non burnable surface of at least 15 feet. As the snow melts construct fire breaks by digging down to mineral soil.”
Before digging to construct contained fire pits be sure to call and locate utilities.
Fire permits are free through local fire departments and the Department of Forestry but even after obtaining a permit, individuals must call in to check burn conditions and weather.
Finley defined the dates.
Finley: “Per statute we are going to start requiring permits for any type of open burning and that is going to range from April 1 to August 31.”
