If you’re planning any outdoor burning in Maine, it’s crucial to understand the state’s fire permit requirements. Maine law mandates permits for specific types of outdoor fires to enhance safety and minimize the risk of wildfires.
While regulations can vary slightly by town, obtaining a Maine fire permit ensures you’re following the rules and helps prevent uncontrolled blazes. Permits are typically free and often available online.
This article offers a comprehensive guide to Maine fire permits, covering regulations, your responsibilities, and how to get one.
Understanding Maine Fire Permit Regulations
If you’re planning an outdoor fire in Maine, there are a few things you should know about fire permits.
When is a Fire Permit Required?
In general, you’ll need a fire permit for any outdoor burning in Maine, unless you’re specifically exempt. For example, you’ll need a burning permit for all outdoor fires within certain cities. You don’t need one for residential grills or fireplaces that you’re using for cooking.
A new law (LD 24) mandates burn permits for campfires that are taller than 3 feet or wider than 3 feet. The exception is when you’re using the fire for debris disposal. This law is a recent change to the regulations.
Prohibited Burning Activities
You can’t burn non-vegetative materials such as treated wood, plastic, rubber, Styrofoam, metals, food waste, and chemicals.
Also, be sure to keep vegetation in small piles, away from buildings and streets.
Types of Maine Fire Permits
Not all Maine fire permits are created equal. Here’s a quick look at some of the different permits you might need, depending on the type of fire you’re planning.
Campfire Permits
Campfire permits are typically used for recreational fires. Campfires can be no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, and they must be at least 15 feet away from any building or structure.
Open Burning Permits
Open burning permits are used for burning brush and wood debris. Open burning is allowed between 9:00 a.m. and midnight, and it’s not permitted on days when the Maine Forest Service has determined the fire danger to be Class 3 or higher. These fires can be no more than 20 feet in diameter, and they must be at least 50 feet away from any structure.
Beach Campfire Permits
Beach campfires have some specific rules you’ll want to be aware of, including restrictions on where you can build your fire and how you need to clean up afterward. Your beach campfire must be contained, and it needs to be at least 100 feet away from any bird nesting sites.
Responsibilities and Safety
If you’re granted a Maine fire permit, you’re responsible for keeping the fire under control. This means attending the fire at all times and having water nearby. If the fire escapes, you could be responsible for suppression costs (up to $2,000) and any damages.
Here are some safety tips:
- Check the wind.
- Keep water or a hose close by.
- Make sure the fire is completely out before you leave.
Burning without a permit, when one is required, can result in the fire being put out and a warning. Violations can also lead to permit revocation, court action, and fines.
In Conclusion
Before you light that campfire or burn pile, remember that Maine law requires a permit for most open burning activities. The rules vary depending on the type of burning you plan to do, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the regulations.
It only takes a few minutes to get a free permit online. Responsible burning practices are essential to prevent wildfires and keep our communities safe.