The Idaho Department of Lands has extended its closed burning season in response to the unseasonably warm, dry weather.

The department requires permits for any open burning outside city limits from May 10 to Oct. 20.

IDL state forester Craig Foss extended the 2024 closure until further notice.

“Conditions across Idaho remain dry and volatile, and our firefighting resources are limited this fall,” he said. “We are asking the public to remain vigilant and ensure all fires, including campfires and debris burning, are fully extinguished. The extended closed fire season is critical to minimizing the potential for human-caused wildfires.”

Burn permits, which are free, are crucial in helping local fire agencies monitor controlled burns and ensure that fire danger remains manageable, according to the department. Each fire protection district assesses local fire danger to determine which types of burning, if any, are allowed.

When the closure will be lifted is not yet known, Department of Lands public information officer Sharla Arledge told Capital Press. The department will continue to watch fire and weather conditions, and will announce when the closure is lifted based on those conditions.

The public can find out more about where burning is prohibited, or about site-specific restrictions, by applying at burnpermits.idaho.gov or by calling an IDL supervisory area office.

Permits are valid for up to 10 days.