Montana Outdoor Burning Permits and Air Quality Rules

Under Administrative Rules of Montana Title 17, Chapter 8, Subchapter 6, and MCA 75-2-211, the Montana DEQ administers the open burning program. Major and minor open burning sources require permits, and most outdoor burning activities between March 1 and November 30 require a permit obtained at airquality.mt.gov. Burning is restricted on days with poor air quality or high fire danger. Prohibited materials include garbage, treated wood, plastics, tires, and animal carcasses. The DEQ's program applies uniformly across Montana, though local fire authorities and tribal jurisdictions may impose additional seasonal restrictions during fire season declarations.

Unpermitted burning or burning prohibited materials may result in DEQ enforcement actions, civil penalties up to $10,000 per day, and liability for wildfire suppression costs.