MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — As warming temperatures and drying conditions increase wildfire danger across the region, CAL FIRE has announced a suspension of all residential burn permits in Madera, Mariposa, and Merced counties. The suspension applies to all outdoor residential burning of landscape debris within the State Responsibility Area. It will take effect on May 19th, 2025.

Elevated Fire Risk

CAL FIRE Unit Chief, Chris Trindade.

According to CAL FIRE Unit Chief Chris Trindade, the combination of a wet winter, above-average snowpack, and abundant grass growth has set the stage for heightened fire risk heading into the peak of summer.

“This will elevate our fire risk even higher, so it’s important residents continue to create and improve their defensible space,” Trindade said.

He continues, “We need residents to remain vigilant and to use caution outdoors to avoid starting a wildfire.”

Safety Tips & Disposal Options

Since the start of 2025, CAL FIRE and firefighters statewide have already responded to over 1,000 wildfires. With debris burning now prohibited, officials are urging residents to take additional precautions to safeguard their homes and communities. CAL FIRE recommends the following actions:

• Clear all dead and dying vegetation at least 100 feet from structures.
• Use fire-resistant plants and non-flammable ground cover in landscaping.
• Dispose of debris through chipping, biomass energy facilities, or green waste services instead of burning.

Campfires remain allowed in designated campgrounds or on private property—just be sure they’re safely contained and permitted.

The suspension on landscape debris burning does not apply to campfires at organized campgrounds or on private property, as long as they are safely contained.

Campfires must be maintained in a way that prevents their spread to wildlands, and a proper campfire permit is required. Permits can be obtained at local fire stations or online, here.

Moreover, CAL FIRE may issue restricted temporary burn permits for essential agricultural or industrial burning if deemed necessary for public health or safety. Officials will issue permits only after completing on-site inspections.

For more information on defensible space and wildfire prevention tips, visit here.