Open Burning

Open burn season is closed from July 1 - September 30 due to increased fire danger.

Open burning for forest health, agricultural purposes, and wildfire mitigation purposes are supported by the City of Whitefish Fire Department with the understanding that there are risks that will need to be mitigated, such as air pollution, obscured visibility along routes of travel, escaped or loss of control fires, and sparks or embers igniting combustible materials.  Recreational fires, such as campfires and warming fires, do not require a permit; however, these fires may NOT be tendered if any fire restrictions have been established.

There is no open burning within the City of Whitefish without first receiving a permit from the City of Whitefish.

Applicants must also check the air quality each day prior to burning by calling 1-866-207-2577.

Download your application for an open burn permit here

City of Whitefish Open Burning Permit Requirements

  • A permit is required for any open burning within the City of Whitefish. Open burning includes slash piles, field or ditch burning, but not recreational fires. 
  • A $25.00 Inspection Fee is paid at the time of application. 
  • All permits will be approved or denied by the Whitefish Fire Department. The Whitefish Fire Department may conduct an on-site inspection of property proposed for an open burning permit. The Whitefish Fire Department will have the authority to cancel any or all permits at any time. One who receives an approved permit must maintain close supervision of the fire at all times. 
  • In the event assistance from the Whitefish Fire Department is required for containment or extinguishment, the permit holder will be responsible for all costs incurred by Whitefish Fire Department in its fire response.
  • The City of Whitefish Fire Marshal, or designee, may conduct a site inspection and approve or disapprove of the permit request. Schedule the inspection with the Fire Marshal only after the burn pile is assembled.  While the Fire Department will do everything it can to handle inspections as fast as possible, please allow up to 5 working days for the application process.  
  • The Fire Marshall, or designee, may cancel any and all open burn permits at any time due to weather conditions or any other factor.  
  • Each permit shall list the following information: 
    • The property owner's contact information and his or her approval for the burn.  
    • The on-site responsible party's name and contact information for the burn.  
    • Description and size of materials to be burned. 
    • Site map with the best access for a fire apparatus. 
  • Only natural vegetation (e.g. slash) no larger than 4 inches in diameter.  Do not try to burn piles of pine needles, as they produce a lot of smoke and smolder.  No garbage or construction site waste may be burned. 
  • The City of Whitefish Fire Department shall have the authority to cause any fire to be extinguished if it is determined that there is a danger to public safety, a danger to public or private property, a nuisance, sign of environmental harm, or violation of regulations. 
  • All burn piles must be constantly attended, completely extinguished, and cold to the touch by sunset.