Elevated burning restrictions are reduced in northeastern Minnesota

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is removing Class III burning restrictions in Cook, Lake, and northern St. Louis counties, effective Monday, August 24, at 12:01 p.m. Recent rain has reduced the chances of wildfires in this area caused by campfires or open burning.

Removing Class III restrictions allows campfires and recreational fires in remote, backcountry, and dispersed areas on non-federal and non-Tribal lands. A permit is required for burning vegetation such as grass, leaves, logs, or branches. This includes any fire larger than 3 feet high by 3 feet wide or one not contained within a fire ring that is burning vegetative debris.

While these changes reflect reduced wildfire risk in these counties, fall is traditionally a dry time in Minnesota and drought conditions persist in many areas across the state.

“While conditions have improved, we’re not done with fire danger this year, as fall is just around the corner,” said Karen Harrison, DNR wildfire prevention specialist. “It’s important for people to continue following wildfire prevention tips such as proper campfire safety and using caution when doing outdoor activities that create heat or sparks.”

The lifting of the last remaining elevated burning restrictions aligns with changes made by the U.S. Forest Service in the Superior National Forest and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, as well as those of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa.

The DNR will continue to monitor conditions and will adjust county-specific burning restrictions as necessary. The health and safety of the public and firefighters is paramount.

Minnesotans are encouraged to stay alert and keep current with the statewide fire conditions and burning restrictions, and make sure they have a burning permit and activate it before doing any vegetative debris burning.

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