Warm Weather Pattern Restricting Permissive Burn Days

Updated 2/9/06

AUBURN, CALIF. -- The Placer County Air Pollution Control District is reminding residents that residential burning is only allowed on permissive-burn days.

Burn days typically are declared when weather conditions readily disperse smoke. The current run of warm-weather days is expected to continue into the coming weekend. High-pressure weather systems that cause warmer weather act like a lid to hold smoke rather than allowing it to disperse. Burning on such days can cause smoke nuisances. Burn days are determined by the California Air Resources Board and are based on meteorological conditions and forecasts. To find out whether burning is permitted on a particular day, residents may call 530-889-6868 if they live within 12 miles of Auburn. A toll-free number is available for residents outside the Auburn area: 1-800-998-2876. Burn-day information is updated by 8:00 a.m. daily.

When burn days resume, the APCD would like to remind residents of the requirements for residential burning. The APCD doesn’t require people to obtain permits for residential burning, but some local fire agencies require permits year-round.

Before burning residential vegetation, residents should contact their local fire departments to find out whether they need permits.

Checking with fire agencies is particularly important in the City of Auburn and community of Granite Bay because they have distinct requirements for burning.

Generally, residential burning is limited to single-family or two-family lots where the vegetation originated. Permissible materials for burning include:

dry leaves;

pine needles;

tree trimmings; and

weeds.

Burning of large objects such as stumps or wet material such as leaves or pine needles should be avoided because they tend to produce smoldering, lingering fires with a tremendous amount of smoke, which can offend others and significantly reduce air quality. Keep burn piles covered with a tarp to keep them dry and free from dirt.

Another option for managing unwanted vegetation is a free chipping service managed by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, which serves under contract as the Placer County Fire Department. To reach the chipping service, call 530-889-0111 Ext. 3.

For more information, contact the district at 530-889-7130.