How Arizona's Burn Permit System Works
Arizona's fire environment is shaped by drought, heat, and the pre-monsoon dry period. The June–July window before monsoon moisture arrives is when Arizona sees its most destructive wildfires — Yavapai, Coconino, and Gila counties experience intense fire activity during this period. The State Forestry Division enforces permit requirements and coordinates with county sheriffs during burn ban periods. Many Arizona counties also have independent fire restriction systems that apply within unincorporated areas.
Getting a Arizona Burn Permit
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Permit Agency | Arizona State Forestry Division |
| Phone | (602) 771-1400 |
| Online Portal | https://forestry.az.gov |
| Cost | Free |
| Validity | Seasonal |
Seasonal Rules & Burn Bans
Pre-monsoon window (May–June): near-total burn restrictions. Monsoon (July–September): restrictions ease somewhat. Fall window (October–November): best burning opportunity. Drought years extend restrictions into winter.
What You Can Burn in Arizona
Natural vegetation and yard debris in permitted areas during allowed windows. No prohibited materials. Arizona is strict about accelerants — only approved fire-starting materials allowed.
- Leaves and natural yard debris
- Brush, branches, and untreated natural wood
- Downed trees from your property (unpainted, untreated)
- Agricultural crop residue (with appropriate permit)
Frequently Asked Questions — Arizona
The narrow windows are fall (October–November) after monsoon season ends, or winter when temperatures are mild. Spring burning (March–May) is possible in some years but increasingly risky with earlier dry-out. June is essentially off-limits statewide.
Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit all open fires including campfires. Stage 1 restricts open fires but allows campfires in designated fire rings. Check cofirebans.us for current restriction levels by county.
Urban areas in the Phoenix metro generally prohibit open burning. Contact the local fire department. State Forestry rules apply in unincorporated areas outside city limits.