As of Mar. 1, Jefferson County has moved from the winter burning period into the open burn season that runs through the end of November. While air quality restrictions are relaxed during the open burn period, burn permits are still required for fires over 48” in size.
Permits are available athttps://app.egovmt.com/burnpermit/. Burners must activate their permits for each day of their burn.
Here’s how to ensure a safe, successful debris burn: First, check the weather for the day of the burn and the upcoming forecast. If high winds are predicted, delay the burn for a calmer day. If strong winds are predicted for the days after the burn, the burn should also be postponed, as lingering hot coals can still ignite a wildfire.
Next, make sure the area around the burn is clear of combustibles. That area should extend to four times the flame height of the burn. Additionally, a suitable way of extinguishing the fire must also be available. The fire should never be left unattended; the burn must be cold to the touch before leaving the area.
Finally, remember that burners are responsible for any fire they ignite. For any questions regarding a debris burn, contact the Jefferson County Fire Warden at (406) 225-4035.
Dodge is Jefferson County’s director of emergency services.
