How Oklahoma's Burn Permit System Works
Oklahoma sits at the crossroads of climate systems that produce extreme fire weather: dry arctic fronts from the north meet warm, moist Gulf air, creating the high winds and low humidity that drove devastating fires including the 2012 season that burned nearly a million acres. County judges issue burn bans independently, creating a patchwork that can change rapidly as weather fronts move through. The state's fire season runs nearly year-round in drought conditions.
Getting a Oklahoma Burn Permit
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Permit Agency | Oklahoma Forestry Services |
| Phone | (405) 522-6158 |
| Online Portal | https://www.forestry.ok.gov |
| Cost | Free |
| Validity | Varies |
Seasonal Rules & Burn Bans
Burn bans common spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Drought years see near-continuous bans across much of the state. Check wildfire.ok.gov before every burn.
What You Can Burn in Oklahoma
Natural vegetation, yard debris, range grass, agricultural residue. No prohibited materials. Pre-burn coordination with neighbors important in Oklahoma's open landscape.
- 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 — Oklahoma
Visit wildfire.ok.gov for real-time county burn ban maps. County burn bans in Oklahoma are issued by county commissioners and can change rapidly. Check the map before any outdoor burn in any county.
During drought periods, it's common for 30–50+ of Oklahoma's 77 counties to be simultaneously under burn bans. In extreme drought years (2011, 2012), nearly the entire state was under burn bans for extended periods.
Range and pasture burning is common in Oklahoma. During burn bans, no burning of any kind is permitted. Outside ban periods, contact Oklahoma Forestry Services for permit requirements in your area.