Burning Restrictions Issued for Stillwater, Washington County

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) placed burning restrictions over much of the state starting Monday, March 26.

These restrictions are put in place each spring to reduce the occurrence of wildfires, which can damage homes and other personal property, according to a DNR press release.

“Due to the continued snowmelt, warming weather, and dry vegetation, much of Minnesota is at increased risk of wildfires,” the DNR said. “The risk will remain high until green vegetation emerges. Until that time, no burning will be allowed unless a special permit is obtained from a local forestry office.”

The burning restrictions mean the state will not give out burning permits for burning brush or yard waste.

Spring fire restrictions limit open burning until summer green-up occurs. Most wildfires in Minnesota occur during April and May, according to the DNR, with more than 95 percent of these fires are caused by human error.

“Because of the high fire incidence during this time period, the DNR proactively initiates burning restrictions,” said DNR Fire Prevention Coordinator Larry Himanga.

Washington County, along with Dakota, Hennepin, Wright and Anoka are among 35 Minnesota counties with initial burning restrictions starting April 26, 2012 announced by the DNR Monday.

Recreational fires are still allowed. These are the three-foot diameter campfires that may only burn small logs or charcoal.

For the statewide fire danger and burning restrictions, check out the maps on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.