MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — All hazard reduction burning in Mariposa and Madera Counties will require a CAL FIRE burn permit, according to an announcement from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit (MMU).
The requirement will take effect at 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 1st. This applies to ALL residential and property owners who plan to burn vegetation as part of fire prevention efforts.
Online Permitting System
CAL FIRE
Burn permits are available exclusively online through CAL FIRE’s official burn permit portal at burnpermite.fire.ca.gov.
For area-specific questions:
- Mariposa County Residents: Contact the Mariposa County Air Pollution Control District at (209) 966- 2220 or call the Burn Day Information line at (209) 966-1200.
- Madera County Residents: Reach the Burn Day Information Line at (877) 429-2876.
Burning Regulations & Enforcement
Importantly, CAL FIRE reminds property owners that they are responsible for checking daily burn day status before lighting any fire. Burning is strictly limited to grasses, brush, downed limbs and trees, and dead, dry vegetation.
Burning outside of established permit parameters is subject to citation. Additionally, burning without checking the burn day status may result in fines.
- Pile Size: Maximum pile size is 4 feet in diameter
- Clearance: Clear all flammable material and vegetation within 10 feet of the outer edge of the pile, down to bare earth.
- Water Supply: Keep a water supply close to the burning site
- Supervision: An adult should be in attendance with a shovel until the fire is out.
- Weather Conditions: Burning should only be undertaken when weather conditions, particularly wind, are such that burning can be considered safe (always check the burn day status).
Fire Safety Remains Top Priority
As fire season approaches, CAL FIRE emphasizes the importance of adhering to hazard reduction guidelines, which are listed on the burn permit and must be followed at all times.
For further fire safety resources and wildfire preparedness tips, visit ReadyForWildfire.org or fire.ca.gov.
