Wildfire-related burning restrictions lifted in 14 Minnesota counties

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has lifted fire restrictions in 14 counties following continued favorable weather that has improved wildfire risk for a majority of the northern part of the state.

According to the DNR, beginning at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, burning restrictions will be lifted in the following counties: Beltrami, Becker, Cass, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Otter Tail, St. Louis, Roseau and Wadena counties.

However, the wildfire risk remains in the northeastern tip of Minnesota. Therefore, Class III burning restrictions remain in effect for Cook and Lake counties. The restrictions are as follows:

• No campfires are allowed for dispersed, remote or backcountry camping on all state, county or private lands. Camping stoves are permitted.
• Attended campfires in established fire rings associated with a home, cabin, campground or resort are allowed.
• No fireworks may be ignited on any public or private land outside city limits. People should check with their local community for any additional restrictions.
• Open burning permits are restricted.
• An Area of Closure around the Greenwood Fire remains in place and is not affected by the updated burning restrictions.

For more information, visit the DNR’s website.