Permit Required

How Montana's Burn Permit System Works

Montana's fire seasons have grown dramatically more severe over the past decade. What was once a July–August fire season now regularly extends into October. Western Montana forests — ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, lodgepole — are highly combustible after decades of fire suppression built up fuel loads. DNRC's forestry division manages state protection areas, while National Forests have their own restrictions. The practical reality for Montana homeowners: plan all burning for May or early June, or after first significant October rain.

Getting a Montana Burn Permit

DetailInformation
Permit AgencyMontana DNRC Forestry Division
Phone(406) 542-4300
Online Portalhttps://dnrc.mt.gov/forestry
CostFree
ValidityVaries

Seasonal Rules & Burn Bans

May–early June: primary window before fire season. July–September: near-total restrictions. October–November: secondary window after first precipitation.

What You Can Burn in Montana

Natural vegetation, yard debris. No prohibited materials. DNRC forestry protection areas are extensive — assume permit required unless your local office confirms otherwise.

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

Frequently Asked Questions — Montana

The realistic windows are May–early June before fire season ramps up, and late October–November after first significant precipitation ends fire season. July–September is essentially off-limits in most years statewide.

No. DNRC permits cover state forestry protection areas. National Forest land has separate permit requirements through the USDA Forest Service. Contact the relevant National Forest ranger district if you're burning near or on National Forest land.

Major Montana cities generally have their own open burning restrictions that are stricter than state rules. Contact local fire departments for current rules within city limits.

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