New Jersey Statewide Rule
New Jersey Forest Fire Service Authority Over Wildfire Zones
Key Facts
- Authority
- NJ Forest Fire Service
- Statute
- N.J.S.A. 13:9-1 et seq.
- High-Risk Region
- NJ Pinelands
- Cost Liability
- Suppression plus fines
Summary
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has statewide jurisdiction over wildland fire prevention, declares burn bans, and enforces forest fire districts that supersede conflicting municipal practices.
Whenever, by reason of drought, the forests of the State are in danger of fires, the commissioner shall have the authority to forbid by proclamation any person or persons, except those authorized by such proclamation, from entering forests in such parts of the State as the department deems the public interest requires, and may by such proclamation suspend or curtail any open season for taking fish, game birds, game animals and furbearing animals, or any of them, therein.
Full Breakdown
Under N.J.S.A. 13:9-1 et seq., the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, within NJDEP, is empowered to prevent and suppress wildfires across the state's forested and Pinelands regions. The Service designates fire districts, enforces seasonal burn restrictions, requires permits for any burning of vegetation, and can issue stop-work and evacuation orders during high-danger conditions. The Pinelands Comprehensive Management Plan adds further fire-management requirements that municipalities must comply with.
Violations & Penalties
Causing or allowing a wildfire results in liability for suppression costs plus fines up to $10,000 under N.J.S.A. 13:9-44.4; willful arson is a second-degree crime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who declares wildfire burn bans in New Jersey?
Am I liable if my campfire causes a wildfire?
Sources
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