Burn Permits Now Being Re-issued in Some Counties

The Georgia Forestry Commission has begun re-issuing burn permits, but authorities are still asking people to use extreme caution when doing any sort of outdoor burning.

Despite the rainfall over the past several days, Northeast Georgia is still not out of the drought woods.

For that reason, Georgia Forestry Commission spokesperson Wendy Burnett says the Forestry Commission is keeping a close watch on weather conditions across the state.

“We will evaluate the conditions for burning in every county, every day throughout the state and we will let our local rangers make the determination whether it is safe to burn or not,” she said.

Burn permits are now being issued for Franklin, Hart, Elbert and Madison Counties, according to Georgia Forestry Ranger Gary Roberts.

And if you are issued a burn permit by your local Forest Ranger, Burnett reminds everyone who decides to burn their leaves and debris to continue to use extreme caution.

“Absolutely, and if you can avoid any burning or prolong it until we get some more rain, we would recommend that,” Burnett said. “But we understand that some people are getting anxious to burn their piles. So, we’re trying our best to work with you, but we’re not going to issue a permit if it’s not safe.”

And with the holiday season now underway, many of us will be hosting family and friends and will likely want to enjoy some outdoor activies such as using our fire pits for smores or deep frying the Christmas turkey.

Burnett says while those activities do not require a burn permit, you still need to be very careful.

“Because there is no official statewide burn ban, recreational fires, cooking fires and heating fires are not covered under the burn permits,” she said. “Many counties did enact local burn bans. So, before you do any outdoor burning, check with your county to see if there is a burn ban. If there’s not, then just be extremely careful. Always have a water hose nearby. Never leave a fire unattended and make sure it’s cool to the touch before you leave it. Just use extreme caution.”

Local Chief Forest Ranger Gary Roberts tells WLHR News, if you do decide to do any burning of leaves or other yard debris and you would like some help, his rangers are available to come out to your home and help you make sure your debris burn is safe.

The Franklin, Hart, Elbert & Madison County Forest Commission office is located in Lavonia.

You can call them with your questions at 706-356-8770.