We have an informal burn authorization system. Open burning, by an individual homeowner, of yard debris, clean/untreated wood – i.e. fallen limbs, trash in a barrel, brush (in a contained area), for examples; is permitted.
The Fire Marshal determines the burn status. Burn permits are issued for one day only. This is done to protect not only surrounding structures, property and lives but also to protect the safety of our firefighters. The criteria for a burn day is that the wind be less than 10 miles per hour and humidity over 30% according to the National Weather Service for Sunrise Beach (65079). The conditions must also be favorable for burning. For example, if the humidity is lower than 30%, we have a dry spell or for some reason the Department of Conservation or DNR request no burning, we abide by their request.