Forest Fire Program

The mission of the Bureau of Forest Protection is to protect human life, property, and natural resources from wildfire. That mission is accomplished through fire suppression efforts, extensive training, a variety of fire prevention and safety programs, partnerships with a variety of fire related agencies, including fire departments, and sound scientific principles.

Our ability to prevent wildfires is largely dependent on the citizens of our state. Responsible burning and care in the forests are essential to fire prevention.

Before Burning Anything in your Area

• Always check the current fire danger level.
• Get the required free burning permits. Find the contact phone number for the local DNR station where you can get a permit by selecting the area on this map where you want to burn. (Note that some counties are split between different DNR fire "dispatch groups", so select the area of the county for which you need information.)

Fire adequately controlled and managed (i.e. prescribed or broadcast burning) can be as an efficient and effective tool in land management as it is for heating, cooking, recreation, or industry.

It should always be recognized that uncontrolled fire or "wildfire" is a devastating force. In recognition of this and other factors such as air pollution and conditions of extreme danger, the best skill and judgment should be used to minimize risks and environmental damage.

Burning permits, which are free, are required by the Department of Natural Resources in many parts of the state to conduct outdoor burning. Burning permits also may be required by local ordinances within incorporated cities and villages.

More information on prescribed burning (PDF, 614KB) as a land management tool.