As Tennessee enters its annual wildfire season during National Fire Prevention Week, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) reminds residents to burn safely and responsibly. Beginning October 15, anyone burning leaves or natural debris must obtain a free burn permit from TDF.

“Tennessee experiences about 1,000 wildland fires each year, burning roughly 18,000 acres, and more than 90% are caused by humans,” State Forester Heather Slayton said. “With extra debris from Hurricane Helene, there’s more fuel for fires this season. Getting a burn permit, burning safely, and avoiding risky activity can greatly reduce wildfire danger.”

Burn permits help TDF communicate when and where it is safe to burn. Permits are only issued when it is safe to burn.

Burn permits are free and available at www.BurnSafeTN.org or by using the MyTN mobile app. Online permits are issued 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time. Always obtain a permit on the day you intend to burn any size leaf, brush, or debris pile or conduct prescribed fires. Burning without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor. Leaving a fire unattended is a Class B misdemeanor, and fires must be fully extinguished by the permit’s expiration.

Residents with limited internet access may call 877-350-BURN (2876) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Central. Online applications are encouraged due to high call volume.

Citizens inside city limits should check local regulations before burning. Residents are also encouraged to explore non-burning options for disposing of storm or yard debris. For information about burning restrictions and materials that are illegal to burn, visit the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation at www.tn.gov/environment/air/open-burning.html. Call 1-888-891-TDEC to report illegal burning.

Visit www.BurnSafeTN.org for tips to burn safely and to protect your community and follow @TNWildlandFire on social media.