LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The annual burn ban in Lake County starts on Monday, May 1, to address concerns over both fire hazard and air quality.
The burn restriction applies to all areas in Lake County.
All burn permits expire on April 30.
The burn ban includes all open green waste burning, though exemptions are possible for agricultural operations, essential control burns for fire hazard reduction projects, public safety burns and others.
The annual burn ban was first implemented in 1986 in response to weather conditions that often create extreme fire danger and poor air quality.
Officials said a managed approach incorporating fire and air agency concerns has been implemented and improved upon for many years.
The ban allows a quick fire agency response to all fires observed from May 1 on, as they are all assumed to be uncontrolled fires unless specifically authorized by an exemption permit.
This successful program is one of the primary reasons Lake County has superior and healthful air quality.
To obtain an exemption permit to burn after May 1, contact the Lake County Air Quality Management District at 707-263-7000 for details.
District office hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments may be requested any time Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Anyone responsible for open burning during the ban without an exemption permit may be subject to citation, fines and fire agency response costs to extinguish the fire.
Help reduce the danger and losses caused by uncontrolled fires, and protect Lake County’s clean air.
“Public cooperation is greatly appreciated and results in a safer and more healthful environment for us all,” the Lake County Air Quality Management District reported.