Burn Natural Debris
If you own wooded land in Tennessee, you may have debris like dead branches, leaves, or fallen trees you wish to clear out. Burning is a convenient way to dispose of this material - but it must be done safely and legally.
Escaped debris fires are the leading cause of wildfires in Tennessee, so please take these guidelines and wildfire laws seriously.
How to Burn Responsibly
1. Get a FREE Burn Permit from the Division of Forestry
Burn permits are required October 15–May 15 every year - learn more at BurnSafeTN.org.
2. Burn Safely
- Choose a calm day and a location away from buildings and overhanging branches or utilities
- Notify your neighbors and the local fire department prior to burning
- Clear the area around the fire of flammable materials
- Keep water and tools nearby to contain escaped embers
- Stay with your fire until it is completely out - it's the law
3. Follow State & Local Rules
- Only burn natural materials from your property
- Some counties and municipalities have additional restrictions or their own permit processes, so always check before burning
- Know that burning trash is never legal in Tennessee - review materials that are not legal to burn here
- Review state natural debris burning laws here
Learn more about safe burning, fire prevention, and wildfires in Tennessee:
Burning debris from a natural disaster? Please visit the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation's (TDEC) page on Open Burning to review the guidelines for burning debris from a natural disaster, such as Hurricane Helene. Please note that a burn permit from TDF is required to open burn this type of debris between Oct. 15 and May 15 each year.