The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced on April 7 that its online burn permit system has been updated to provide a more streamlined experience for users planning to burn yard debris this spring.
The new webpage aims to make it easier for residents to check whether burning is allowed in their area and obtain necessary permits, which is important as most wildfires in Michigan are caused by human activities such as burning yard waste.
To use the updated system, residents should visit Michigan.gov/BurnPermit. Desktop and tablet users can select their county from a dropdown menu on the right side of the screen. Mobile device users are instructed to click “Can I burn today?” and then use the dropdown menu below the map after scrolling down. Rotating the phone provides a wider view showing township names, permit status, and guidelines or restrictions. The clickable map feature has been removed due to accessibility concerns; instead, all navigation is now through dropdown menus designed for better compatibility with assistive technologies.
Residents who prefer not to use the website can call 866-922-BURN (866-922-2876) to check if burning is permitted in their area. Burn permits from the Department of Natural Resources are available only for counties in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula, including Muskegon, Newaygo, Mecosta, Isabella, Midland, Bay counties and all counties north of them. Those living in southern Lower Peninsula should contact local fire departments or governing bodies regarding burn permissions.
The department reminds everyone that nine out of ten wildfires in Michigan result from human activity such as unattended fires or hot equipment igniting dry vegetation. Residents are urged to keep burn piles small—no larger than three feet in diameter—have water nearby at all times, never leave fires unattended even briefly, and ensure ashes are cool before leaving any fire site. Special caution is advised this season in northern Lower Peninsula areas where dried wood left by last year’s ice storm could increase fire intensity if ignited.
Additional safety tips and information about wildfire prevention can be found at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.
