Skip to Content

For Immediate Release

Burn Permit Suspension Lifted Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit

Santa Rosa,CA | December 12, 2019

Fire Prevention and HazMat 120Effective December 9, 2019, the burn permit suspension in Sonoma, Lake, Napa, Solano, Yolo, and Colusa counties was lifted by Cal Fire. Those possessing current and valid agriculture and residential burn permits can resume burning on permissible burn days.

Residents are asked to use caution while conducting burns, follow all guidelines, and to maintain control of the fire at all times. Individuals can be held civilly and/or criminally liable for allowing a fire to escape their control and/or burn onto neighboring property. Residents should contact their local Fire District prior to any burning.

“Many area residents are faced with removing vegetation that was damaged during the recent fires,” said Sonoma County Fire Marshal James Williams. “Please consult a professional before cutting trees, and make sure burning is done safely.” 

Residents MUST verify it is a permissive burn day prior to burning.


Pile Burning Requirements

  • Burn only dry, natural vegetative material such as leaves, pine needles and tree trimmings.
  • The burning of trash, painted wood, or other debris is not allowed.
  • Do NOT burn on windy days.
  • Piles should be no larger than four feet in diameter and in height. Add to the pile as it burns down.
  • Clear a 10 foot line down to bare soil around your piles.
  • Have a shovel and a water source nearby.
  • An adult is required to be in attendance of the fire at all times.

Safe residential burning of vegetation is a crucial tool in reducing fire hazards. When conditions allow, state, federal and local fire and land management agencies will be conducting prescribed burns aimed at improving forest health on private and public lands.

For more information visit: Sonoma County Fire at sonomacounty.ca.gov/FirePrevention or CAL FIRE at www.fire.ca.gov or www.ReadyForWildfire.org

###