Varies by Area

How Alaska's Burn Permit System Works

Alaska's DOF manages fire in designated State Fire Protection Areas — primarily around populated communities and the road system. In these areas, burn permits are required during the fire season (typically May–September). Vast areas of rural Alaska are outside these protection areas, where federal land management agencies (BLM, National Park Service, USFS) may have jurisdiction, or where local rules apply. If you're burning near any community in Alaska, contact the Forestry Division's area office first.

Getting a Alaska Burn Permit

DetailInformation
Permit AgencyAlaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection
Phone(907) 269-8400
Online Portalhttps://forestry.alaska.gov
CostFree
ValidityVaries

Seasonal Rules & Burn Bans

Fire season May–September. Interior Alaska (Fairbanks area) can have dramatic fire years. Coastal and Southeast Alaska generally have lower fire risk year-round.

What You Can Burn in Alaska

Natural vegetation and yard debris in permitted areas. Always confirm what's allowed with your local DOF office given the wide variation across Alaska's geography.

⚠ Never legal to burn — anywhere in Alaska: Household garbage, treated or painted wood, tires, plastics, construction debris, or hazardous materials. No permit covers these materials.

Frequently Asked Questions — Alaska

It depends on your location. In State Fire Protection Areas (near most communities and along the road system), yes — a DOF permit is required during fire season. In remote areas outside protection areas, contact the relevant land management agency (BLM, USFS, or borough) for local rules.

Alaska's primary fire season runs May through September. Burning is generally less restricted the rest of the year, though local rules may still apply.

Anchorage has its own municipal open burning ordinances that are generally more restrictive than state rules. Contact the Anchorage Fire Department for current rules before any outdoor burning within the Municipality of Anchorage.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always verify current rules with Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection before burning. Rules change and local ordinances may be more restrictive than state-level guidance.