LITCHFIELD -- The state Department of Natural Resources has added Meeker County to its Internet-based burning permit system. As of Jan. 1, citizens can get a yearlong open burning permit on the Internet.
According to a news release from Sheriff Mike Hirman, the traditional paper permits from local fire wardens will remain available. The Internet address is www.dnr.state.mn.us/burningpermits .
The major benefit to the electronic permits is public safety, Hirman says. Local emergency dispatchers and DNR fire managers will be able to check the locations of active burning permits quickly. Permit holders will have to check-in with the system when they want to burn, fire managers can respond to local weather conditions and shut down burning on high fire danger days.
The online permit cost is $5 and is only available for piled material and a running fire of less than one acre. For information, call the area forestry manager at 320-231-5164.
