Fire Protection Areas

Because all parts of the state do not present the same kind and degree of fire problems, the state has been divided into different kinds of forest fire protection. The degree of protection has been determined by the amount of forested lands, hazards and risks present in the various parts of the state.

Fire Protection Areas

Extensive Protection Areas are less forested than intensive areas and have fewer DNR suppression resources and ranger stations. Hazards and risk are still high in these areas. Fire detection is accomplished with aerial detection and citizen reporting. Debris burning is regulated by the DNR and burning permits are needed whenever the ground is not snow covered from January 1 through May 31 and other times when the department so orders. Permits can be obtained from local emergency fire wardens and DNR ranger stations.

Intensive Protection Areas are the most heavily forested and contain the most fire hazards and risk in the state. They have more DNR fire suppression resources and ranger stations. Fire detection is accomplished with fire towers, aerial detection and citizen reporting. The most restrictive debris burning laws are in effect. These laws are regulated by the DNR and require a burning permit for debris burning whenever the ground is not snow covered throughout the year. Permits can be obtained from local emergency fire wardens and DNR ranger stations.

Some parts of the state are not sufficiently forested and do not contain the hazards and risks necessary to warrant intensive or extensive fire protection. These areas are designated as Cooperative Fire Protection Areas. DNR ranger stations and suppression resources are not located in these areas. Town chairpersons have the responsibility for suppressing forest fires. This is accomplished through the local fire departments with the DNR providing technical and financial assistance. Citizen reporting accomplishes fire detection. The town chairperson regulates debris burning and restrictions vary throughout the Cooperative Area. Call your local town chairperson for regulations in your town.

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