Alabama Statewide Outdoor Burning Permit Requirements

Under Alabama Code Section 9-13-11 and Forestry Commission regulations, anyone burning brush, debris, fields, or woodlands must obtain a free permit from the Alabama Forestry Commission before ignition. Permits are issued daily based on fire weather conditions and may be denied during high fire danger or when a burn ban is in effect. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) also restricts open burning of household garbage and trade waste under air quality rules in 335-3-3. State burn bans issued by the Governor or Forestry Commission Director apply statewide and override local permission.

Burning without a required permit is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $500, civil liability for fire suppression costs, and damages to neighboring property if escape occurs.