Connecticut Statewide Rule
Connecticut Bans Open Fires Near Woodland During High Fire Danger
Key Facts
- Statute
- CGS 23-49a
- Trigger
- High/extreme danger or drought emergency
- Restricted zone
- Within 100 feet of woodland
- Penalty
- Up to $200 or 6 months
- Enforcer
- State Forest Fire Warden (DEEP)
Summary
Connecticut General Statutes 23-49a forbids kindling any open-air fire within one hundred feet of woodland, brushland, or adjacent dried grass when the State Forest Fire Warden declares forest fire danger high or extreme, or during a declared drought emergency.
No person shall kindle or use fire in the open air within one hundred feet of woodland, brushland, or area containing dried grass that is adjacent to any woodland or brushland, when the forest fire danger, as declared by the State Forest Fire Warden, is high or extreme, or during a drought emergency as declared by the State Forest Fire Warden.
Full Breakdown
The ban triggers only when the State Forest Fire Warden, housed in the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), rates the day's forest fire danger high or extreme, or when a drought emergency is declared. In those windows no one may light a fire within one hundred feet of woodland, brushland, or adjacent dried grass. The Warden may issue a special burning permit when the burn is of immediate necessity, does not conflict with local or state authority, and the permittee has the equipment and manpower to confine it. Public authorities reducing a health or fire hazard are exempt.
Violations & Penalties
Violating subsection (a) draws a fine of up to two hundred dollars, imprisonment of up to six months, or both, under Section 23-49a(c).
Frequently Asked Questions
When does this open-fire ban actually apply?
Can I burn near woodland during high fire danger?
Sources
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