Frequently Asked Questions
On Burning:
When do I need a burn permit? You need an open burn permit whenever you have a fire on the ground that is not contained within a vessel or approved container.
What type of burning requires a burn permit? There are three types of outdoor fires that require a burn permit, they are:
Open Burn Permit used to burn large brush piles etc.
Bonfire Permit used to have a large uncontained fire.
Recreational Permit used for small fires, 3’x2’ (campfires etc.)
Why do I have to get a burn permit? For many reasons; the first is for the safety of you, your neighbors, the community and the environment. Secondly is to save tax dollars, many well intentioned false alarms are reported when someone sees a fire and without a permit we react in a full response costing thousands of tax payer dollars. With a permit we know someone is burning in the near area and respond with limited personnel and equipment.
Your burn permit says I can be held responsible for my actions, what do you mean? When you are issued a permit it is not a permit to bypass any local, state or federal law. When signed you are certifying you will burn only what is lawful and will use diligence to prevent the fire from spreading.
I have a burn permit, why can I be told to put my fire out? Smoke or odors may offend or harm your neighbors, especially those with health conditions. The smell can enter others homes and sometimes the home must be cleaned to remove it. Always ask your neighbor before you burn.
I live in the City, as a child we would burn our garbage in a barrel, can I? No, garbage will be very offensive to the neighborhood. The City contracts for garbage, brush and appliance removal along with recyclables just follow their instruction to have it taken away. The City also removes the fallen leaves.
Can you describe an approved container or vessel used for burning? There are some commercial made burn barrels but most often it is constructed from a 55gal barrel. Punch holes in the bottom to let water out and in the sides to let air in to aid combustion. Place a ½ to ¾ inch heavy screen on the top to prevent flying embers. Be sure to ask your neighbors before burning. Remember you can recycle glass, tin cans, paper, cardboard and grass clippings now a days there is little need for a burning barrel.
Can I build my own incinerator? Yes, but I caution you about it. You’ll need to get both state and federal inspections and permits to operate it.
Why can’t I burn wood or lumber? Most of the lumber at some point in time has been treated or painted. When it is burnt the toxins such as lead are released into the air or ground. Michigan DEQ is very strict on burning and/or burying lumber.
I’ve used old tires for years to burn my brush piles, what’s changed? Tires are made from oil, that’s why they burn so hot, however they produce toxic by-products and oil residue.
We have a brush pile from a recent wind storm, can I burn it? Yes, you can have a large open burn or smaller fires like a bonfire or camp (residential) fire any of which require a permit. If it is a small amount it can be burned in an approved container without a permit. In the City bundle it together no longer than 3 feet and set it out with your weekly garbage.
I have an old wood pile I want to burn, can I? No, DEQ regulations prevent this.
We are having company over and want to have a camp fire, what should I do?
Obtain a Recreational Open Burn Permit, you can get one at fire department
head quarters
There is an old building on my property I want to get rid of, can I burn it down? No, no matter how big or small you unfortunately will have to tear it down.
I’m a contractor, we are clearing land close to a major roadway can I burn? Yes, however there are state regulations that prohibit burning within a number of feet from major roads and incorporated city limits, you should contact the DNR for the required distance. Also be aware you or the property owner can be held responsible if smoke reduces visibility and causes a traffic accident.
I live in the City and have been told I can’t burn my leaves, why? When burned leaves give off an offensive odor and the smoke irritates the respiratory system in many people, rake your leave to the parkway City trucks will remove them.