Fire danger forces debris burning ban in six counties

CAL FIRE will suspend burn permits in six counties Monday in consideration of high fire risk currently in the region, according to the agency.

The increasing fire danger that hot, dry conditions and the abundance of dead grass leftover from a wet winter pose prompted CAL FIRE to suspend burn permits with some exceptions in Sonoma, Lake, Napa, Solano, Yolo, and Colusa Counties.

Effective Monday at 8 a.m., the suspension bans all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris such as branches and leaves. The ban does not apply to campfires, which are allowed within campgrounds and on private property.

A campfire permit can be obtained at local fire stations or online at PreventWildfireCA.org, CAL FIRE said. Other types of burning may be permitted with the consent of a CAL FIRE official, according to the agency.

Chief Thom Porter, CAL FIRE director, said:

“Last year was a devastating reminder that the public cannot let their guard down. Together we must adapt and evolve to be able to withstand the intensity of these fires, keeping in mind that the only way to mitigate the damage they cause is through preparation. … The dry, hot weather that fueled the massive fires last year will return again this year, so it is up to the public to be ready.”

CAL FIRE said it has responded to over 1,171 wildfires since January 1.

To prevent fire, CAL FIRE reminded people to avoid mowing on hot and dry days.

The agency also advised people to prepare their properties for fire by clearing dead vegetation, planting fire-resistant plants, and disposing debris.

For more information, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org.

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