Alert: No burning allowed starting Monday

The Department of Lands and the Kootenai County Fire Chiefs have determined that continued hot weather and dry conditions warrant instilling a burn ban for Kootenai County beginning Monday, Aug. 2.  No further burn permits will be issued.

At this time, small camp fires and burn barrels are still allowed but residents will need to use extra caution and have water and tools available to control and prevent any spread of fire.

As of Monday, no open burning will be allowed including yard waste and slash piles.  Those needing to burn before the ban is in effect are reminded to use extreme caution and attend the fire at all times until it is cold to the touch.  Leaving even “warm” embers can cause it to unexpectedly reignite and grow into a large wild fire if weather conditions are right.

Once the burn ban is in effect, residents should expect it to remain in place until the fire season ends in late fall.  Residents with additional questions or to check on specific restrictions should contact their local fire department or the Idaho Department of Lands.