California Fire officials announced on Wednesday (November 19) that the burn permit suspension in San Diego County will be lifted in the coming days. Those with valid agricultural or residential burn permits will be allowed to conduct burning activities on permitted burn days.
The suspension will be lifted starting at 8 a.m. on Friday (21st). Cal Fire Director Tony Mecham stated that approved burn times are from 8 a.m. to sunset.
Officials mentioned that Cal Fire must conduct inspections before agricultural burning (burning crop residues such as straw, grapevines, fruit tree branches, field waste, and land clearing) and residential burning (like burning tree branches, fallen leaves, plant trimmings, etc., on one’s own property) may also require inspections. Residents can contact their local Cal Fire office to confirm if an inspection is necessary.
Cooler weather, increased humidity, and seasonal rainfall have lowered the wildfire risk in the area, but Cal Fire still urges residents to be extra cautious when conducting waste burning or agricultural burning.
Fire officials stated that if a fire gets out of control or causes damage to neighboring properties, individuals may be held liable for civil and criminal responsibilities.
In their statement, they said, “Safe residential pile burning remains a critical tool in reducing wildfire risk. During this favorable weather condition period, state, federal, and local agencies will also conduct planned burns to enhance forest health and resilience on public and private lands.”
For more information or to apply for a burn permit, visit burnpermit.fire.ca.gov.