DNR places burn restrictions on 14 counties

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is restricting open burning, citing an increased wildfire risk due to warmer weather and dry conditions.

Fourteen counties are affected by the restrictions: Anoka, Benton, Chisago, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Ramsey, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Washington and Wright counties.

In those counties, the DNR won’t issue permits for open burning of brush or yard waste until the restrictions are lifted.

Approximately 90% of wildfires in Minnesota are human-caused, the DNR reports.

Instead of burning, the DNR is encouraging Minnesotans to try different methods to dispose of yard waste, like composting, chipping or taking it to a collection site.

“Wildfire risk increases each year after the snow melts and before grass greens up,” Allissa Reynolds, a DNR wildfire prevention supervisor, said. “Spring burning restrictions help to reduce the number of wildfires, especially those caused by debris burning.”

The DNR says burn restrictions will be updated as conditions continue to change. Click here to see the latest fire danger and burn restrictions maps.