MONTEREY COUNTY — Effective Nov. 4, the burn permit suspension in San Benito and Monterey counties has been lifted.
Cal Fire San Benito-Monterey Unit Chief George Nunez Jr. formally canceled the burn permit suspension and advised that those possessing current burn permits can now begin burning on permissible burn days.
Agriculture burns must be inspected by Cal Fire. Inspections by Cal Fire may be required for burns other than agriculture burns as well. In addition, applicants must comply with all rules, regulations and permit requirements set forth by the Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD).
Backyard burn suspension will remain in effect until Dec. 1.
Cal Fire burn permits are required for burning. While cooler temperatures and recent precipitation have helped to diminish the threat of wildfire, property owners are asked to use caution while conducting agriculture burns.
“Always use caution when burning, follow all guidelines provided, and maintain control of the fire at all times,” according to Cal Fire. “Individuals can be held civilly and/or criminally liable for allowing a fire to escape their control and/or burn onto neighboring property.”
Property owners wishing to burn must verify it is a permissive burn day prior to burning. Visit mbard.org or call 800-225-2876 for details.
Pile Burning Requirements
- Only dry, natural vegetative material such as tree trimmings may be burned.
- The burning of trash, painted wood, or other debris is not allowed.
- Do not burn on windy days.
- Have a shovel and a water source nearby.
- An adult is required to be in attendance of the fire at all times.
“Safe burning of forest residue by landowners is a crucial tool in reducing fire hazards,” stated Cal Fire. “State, federal and local land management and fire agencies will also be utilizing this same window of opportunity to conduct prescribed burns aimed at improving forest health on private and public lands.”
For more information on burning, visit fire.ca.gov.
