Burn Permit Application

To streamline the process and ensure timely issuing, applications are now online only.  (the application is smartphone friendly)

To apply for a burning permit before you burn, please:

ACCESS THE BURN PERMIT APPLICATION HERE

When you submit the application, you will immediately receive a copy by return email.  If you don’t see it within a few minutes, please check your spam filter.  Please allow up to 5 business days for processing.

  • Please
    print and save a copy of the automated reply should the fire department
    respond.  The permit holder must be able to provide a copy of the
    burn permit for inspection and/or surrender upon request.
  • This form will need to be completed each year and is valid until December 31, 2025. You may not burn without a permit!
  • You will still need to call 517-647-4111 prior to burning to be sure burning is being allowed. Burning bans may be temporarily in affect due to weather conditions. You will no longer need to leave any information when calling 517-647-4111.
  • You are responsible for any and all damage caused by your burning even with a permit. You may also be charged with fines and/or cost of services for failure to comply with all State, City, and Township laws and ordinances. Note: the decision to bill is made by the State, City, or Township NOT by the Portland Area Fire Authority.
  • A permit shall only issue to or be obtained by the owner and/or resident of the property. Proof of ownership / residency may be required upon request.  A separate permit is required for each burn location.

PORTLAND AREA FIRE AUTHORITY

BURNING REGULATIONS

All Burning Requires a Permit.   This is a synopsis of the burning ordinance and is not intended to replace the ordinance.

1)   The fire chief and/or their authorized representative have the authority to discontinue the permit if the smoke creates a nuisance or hazardous condition.  The fire chief and/or their authorized representative reserve the right to enter the premises to ensure proper compliance to the burning rules and regulations.

2)  The following items may NOT be burned at any time:

  • construction and/or demolition waste
    (shingles, siding, lumber, etc.)
  • garbage
  • hazardous materials
  • animal carcasses and/or animal waste
  • petroleum-based products (not even to start the fire)
  • plastic
  • tires

3)  In the townships, yard waste (brush, grass, leaves, garden debris, etc.), fence rows, road ditches and burning barrels must be completely extinguished; yard waste may be burned after sunrise and shall not emit any smoke after dusk. These items may not be burned in the city at any time.

4)   Burning of yard waste not originating on the property for which the permit is issued is not permissible at any time.   

5)   No fire shall be left unattended until it has been completely extinguished.  Fire pits and/or campfires must be extinguished upon the completion of the event or activity.

6)  A source of water must be near the fire until extinguished.

7) No brush piles shall be burned within 25 feet of any overhead utility wires. Any burning within 10 feet of any utility equipment including wood poles, guy wires, ground level cabinets and pedestals is prohibited.