CLAY COUNTY-Outdoor burn permits are now required here and across the state through May 15 prior to burning leaves or any other natural vegetation in order to minimize the risk of wildland fires.

The burn permit requirement went into effect last week on October 15.

They can be obtained free from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) online at www.BurnSafeTN.org or by using the MyTN mobile app.

“Burn permits help us communicate with landowners about when and where it is safe to burn at any given time,” TDF officials said.  “Obtaining a permit is vital for keeping our communities and firefighters safe.”

Permits are only issued when it is safe to burn.  When conditions are unsafe due to hazardous conditions like high winds or extreme drought, TDF temporarily pauses the issuance of burn permits and resumes once conditions improve.

Online permits are issued seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

“Always obtain a permit on the day you intend to burn any size leaf, brush, or debris pile or conduct a prescribed fire,” TDF officials said.  “Each fire should be completely extinguished by the permit expiration and no fire should be left unattended at any time.

“Burning without a permit is a prosecutable Class C misdemeanor.”

Online applications are encouraged, but residents with limited internet access may call 877-350-BURN (2876) to request a permit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A list of materials that are not allowed to be burned, can be found online at www.tn.gov/environment/air/open-burning.html.

TDF protects Tennessee’s forests by fighting wildfires, coordinating hazard emergency response, providing prescribed fire guidance and contract services, as well as wildland fire training.

Additionally, the Division promotes the responsible use of forest resources by assisting landowners, providing quality seedlings, monitoring insects and diseases, improving urban forests, managing state forests, protecting water quality, and collecting forest inventory data.

The Division also works to promote primary and secondary forest industries to stimulate the state’s economy. Visit www.tn.gov/agriculture/forests for more information.