AUGUSTA, Maine — Mainers planning to have bonfires or larger campfires are required to obtain a burn permit before doing so under a new law.
LD 24, which went into effect Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, impacts fires exceeding three feet in height and three feet in diameter that are not for debris disposal, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) said in a news release.
The new law also makes it unlawful for Maine residents to burn outdoors during red flag warning days, the DACF said.
"Notably, permits for burning brush and wood debris remain unaffected and are still required under the existing regulations," the release stated.
Mainers who plan to have fires larger than the specified dimensions above after Oct. 25 must obtain burn permits. Burn permits are free of charge and available online. You can click here to obtain a burn permit.
"This new regulation aims to mitigate the risk of larger campfires getting out of control and causing wildfires," the DACF said. "By requiring permits for this type of fire, the state hopes to ensure fire safety measures are in place, reducing the potential for fire-related emergencies."
For more information about LD 24, click here.