Burnsville Under Burning Restriction, But Small Bonfires Still OK

It may be bonfire season, but stick to the rules before you light up a fire in Burnsville.

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

As per the DNR, recreational fires are still allowed, which generally include three-foot diameter campfires and bonfires that may only burn small logs or charcoal. But burning brush, or lighting up larger campfires—that's banned.

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, but the city of Burnsville will still give recreational burning permits. You can download the permit, and see Burnsville's recreational fire rules at the fire department's website.

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.

Dakota County was among 35 Minnesota counties with initial burning restrictions starting April 26, 2012 announced by the DNR Monday.

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

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