Vermont Outdoor Burning and Fire Warden Permits

Each Vermont town has a state-appointed fire warden who issues kindling permits before burning brush, leaves, untreated wood, or natural slash. The warden assesses weather, drought conditions, and proximity to structures. Permits may be denied during high fire-danger days. Burning trash, painted wood, plastics, tires, or construction debris is barred under both 10 V.S.A. § 2645 and Vermont Air Pollution Control Regulations § 5-204. Fires must be attended and fully extinguished. The Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation oversees the warden program.

Burning without a permit or burning prohibited materials: fines up to $1,000 plus suppression costs; criminal liability for negligent fires under 13 V.S.A. § 502.