Wisconsin Statewide Rule
Wisconsin DNR Fire Protection Areas and Wildfire Rules
Key Facts
- Protected Acres
- About 18 million
- Statute
- Wis. Stat. § 26.11
- Liability Statute
- Wis. Stat. § 26.21
- Danger Levels
- Low to extreme
- Lead Agency
- Wisconsin DNR
Summary
Wisconsin DNR designates statewide Fire Protection Areas under Wis. Stat. § 26.11 where the agency holds primary wildfire suppression authority and enforces stricter ignition rules during elevated fire danger.
26.11 Forest fires; department jurisdiction; procedure. 26.11(1)(1) The department is vested with power, authority, and jurisdiction in all matters relating to the prevention, detection, and suppression of forest fires outside the limits of villages and cities in the state except as provided in s. 26.01 (2), and to do all things necessary in the exercise of such power, authority, and jurisdiction.
Full Breakdown
Wis. Stat. § 26.11 and § 26.12 establish DNR jurisdiction over forest fire protection across roughly 18 million acres in northern and central Wisconsin known as the DNR Protection Area. The DNR sets daily fire danger levels (low to extreme) and may suspend or revoke burning permits, restrict campfires, and prohibit equipment use that creates sparks during high or very high danger. Outside the Protection Area, in Cooperative Areas, local fire departments lead suppression but DNR rules on permit issuance and ignition restrictions still apply. The DNR may seek reimbursement from any person who negligently or unlawfully ignites a wildfire under Wis. Stat. § 26.21.
Violations & Penalties
Igniting a wildfire through negligence creates strict liability for suppression costs plus forfeitures or misdemeanor penalties under Wis. Stat. § 26.20 and § 26.21.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Wisconsin DNR fight wildfires?
Am I liable if I start a wildfire in Wisconsin?
Sources
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