Clarksville, Tenn. (ClarksvilleNow) —The Tennessee State Forestry Office will require a burning permit from the Division of Forestry for any open-air fire within 500 feet of a forest, grassland or woodland outside of Clarksville City Limits beginning Monday, September 23.
The requirement is going into effect earlier than the usual date of October 15 because of the abnormally dry weather throughout Tennessee.
Permits are not required for burning in containers such as a metal barrel with a ½” screen cover. Permits are free of charge, according to a news release from Michelle Newell, Public Information Officer for Montgomery County government.
Burning without a permit within 500 feet of a forest, grassland, or woodland after September 23 is against the law. Citizens are asked to report careless or non-compliant acts of burning immediately by calling 911.
“We want our residents and visitors to stay safe during this unusually hot and dry season in Montgomery County,” said Ed Baggett, Montgomery County Fire Chief. “Requiring burn permits to make sure the area where burns occur are sound locations is the responsible decision. We are asking that citizens, builders, contractors and others abide by the forestry office requirement.”
For questions, permits, and important information about safe burning call 877-350-2876 or visit www.burnsafetn.org.