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Burn permits are a hot topic in Maine backyards

You need a permit to burn brush in the State of Maine. However, the internet is changing the system and lowering the fee for some users.

AUGUSTA (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- Burning brush is a tradition in Maine. It requires a burn permit.

Traditionally, these could be obtained online from the Maine Forest Service for $7.

However, a person could also get a written permit from their local fire warden. In small towns, that is usually the fire chief.

In Gorham and West Gardiner, fire wardens came up with online systems. Gary Hickey, the West Gardiner Fire Chief says he did it as a convenience to his townsfolk.

His system is called "Warden Report."

"If I was away or something, they didn't have to go to the state site and pay seven dollars," he told NEWS CENTER.

Other towns like his system and now 70 towns have signed on.

Originally, each town paid a fee. That fee was reduced and is now free as he has been able to sign up advertisers.

The Maine Forest Service is concerned about the two free sites. Officials don't believe there is enough control over who gets a burn permit and when.

"We just want to make sure all private systems have the same safety requirements we have," said Kent Nelson, a Forest Ranger Specialist.

State permits are offered online by the Maine Forest Service

He believes having three systems causes confusion and increases the chances that a fire might get away.

"The most frequent type of wildfires in Maine are caused by escaped debris burns," he said.

The Maine Legislature is currently looking at legislation that would update burn permits.

It seems that the state system will remain in effect, although the seven dollar fee will be waived.

The two private systems will be allowed to continue.

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