Burn permits now required

Burn permits are required for all debris burning in Flathead and northern Lake counties from May 1 through June 30.

Permits can be obtained for free at www.firesafekalispell.com and are valid for the entire burn season.

Permits are also available at the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s Kalispell office, at Flathead Environmental Health or by calling 406-752-7376 during normal business hours.

All debris burning should be completed by June 30, as open burning is prohibited during months of July, August, and September due to Montana’s fire season.

The department asks that those planning an open burn take care to prevent escaped debris. Those that accidentally start a wildland fire may be held responsible for the cost of suppression.

No man-made materials (including fence-posts or lumber) or trade waste can be burned with a regular debris-burn permit. Call Flathead County Environmental Health at 406-751-8130 with questions about Trade Waste permits.

Air-quality compliance is required for every burn. Before lighting a fire, burners should call 406-751-8144 or check www.flatheadhealth.org/environmental-health/burn-restrictions for the daily burning forecast.