Fire Protection Areas

Because all parts of the state do not present the same kind and degree of fire problems, the state has been divided into different kinds of forest fire protection. The degree of protection has been determined by the amount of forested lands, hazards and risks present in the various parts of the state.

Some parts of the state are not sufficiently forested and do not contain the hazards and risks necessary to warrant intensive or extensive fire protection. These areas are designated as Cooperative Fire Protection Areas. DNR ranger stations and suppression resources are not located in these areas. Town chairpersons have the responsibility for suppressing forest fires. This is accomplished through the local fire departments with the DNR providing technical and financial assistance. Citizen reporting accomplishes fire detection. The town chairperson regulates debris burning and restrictions vary throughout the Cooperative Area. Call your local town chairperson for regulations in your town.