Idaho Falls: What to know before you burn

IDAHO FALLS ~ Idaho Falls Fire Department Reminds Residents of Burning Rules and Safety Precautions

As the warmer weather approaches, the Idaho Falls Fire Department is preparing for a potential increase in outside fires. In light of this, fire officials are reminding residents of the rules and safety precautions when it comes to burning within city limits.

While recreational fires are allowed within city limits, a permit is required for bonfires and irrigation/weed control fires. It is important to note that burning leaves, trash, construction debris, and yard waste is always illegal within city limits. Burn barrels are also strictly prohibited and no permits will be issued for this type of burning. Any open burning that creates or adds to a hazardous or objectionable situation can be ordered to be extinguished by any authorized Idaho Falls Fire Department official.

"Open burning in city limits poses a significant risk as it can quickly get out of control and lead to damaged property or threaten the safety of others," said Idaho Falls Fire Chief Duane Nelson. "With structures closer together, even a small ember can have tragic consequences."

Recreational Fires

While recreational fires such as fire pits are allowed within city limits under certain conditions, they must meet specific requirements. These include having a total fuel area no greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. Recreational fires can only be used for pleasure, religious ceremonies, cooking, warmth or similar purposes.

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Additionally, these fires must not be conducted within 25 feet of any structure or combustible material. Any conditions that could cause the fire to spread within 25 feet must be eliminated before ignition. If using an approved portable outdoor fireplace, the distance from structures or combustible materials is reduced to 15 feet.

It is also important to constantly attend to the fire until it is completely extinguished. A portable fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 4-A or another method of extinguishing the fire must be readily available for use.

Bonfires and Irrigation/Weed Control Fires

For bonfires and irrigation/weed control fires, a Fire Code Operational Permit must be obtained from the Idaho Falls Fire Prevention office at (208) 612-8497. Bonfires are defined as fires greater than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height, while irrigation and weed control fires are limited to maintaining irrigation ditches or controlling weeds. These types of fires may be permitted when other means are impractical and do not pose a nuisance.

Controlled or Prescribed Burns

While open burning is prohibited within city limits, controlled or prescribed burns are common during the spring in Bonneville County. However, these fires can quickly become uncontrolled if not properly managed. The Idaho Falls Fire Department is urging property owners to take extra precautions, check weather conditions, and notify them before starting any controlled burns.

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If conducting a controlled burn, it is important to follow these guidelines:

- Keep the fire at least 50 feet away from structures, vehicles, trailers, or trees.

- Clear the area around the fire down to the soil.

- Keep the fire small and manageable.

- Have a hose, shovel, metal rake, and bucket of water nearby.

- Never leave the fire unattended.

- Avoid burning on windy days.

Prior to starting a controlled burn, contact the Idaho Falls/Bonneville County Dispatch Center at (208) 529-1200 with the location, date, and time of the burn. Notify them again once the burn is complete.

Illegal Fires

It is important for residents to know that certain materials are strictly prohibited from being burned within city limits. These include lawn clippings, tar or tar paper, telephone poles, hazardous materials, railroad ties, rubber materials, construction waste, oil and grease products, dead animals, demolition/salvage materials household waste asphalt materials debris tires preservative-treated wood, junk motor vehicles, plastics, pathogenic waste, commercial waste, paints, insulated wire, industrial waste, and petroleum products.

For more information or questions about burning regulations and safety precautions, contact the Fire Prevention office at (208) 612-8497. Additional fire prevention information can also be found on the Idaho Falls Fire Department website.

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