The following tips should be followed when it is safe to conduct a debris burn:

• GET A PERMIT. A permit is required from the Tennessee Division of Forestry between October 15 to May 15 where local restrictions do not supercede.
   
• Check with local authorities to make sure there are no local restrictions on burning currently in place, especially in cities and towns that have their own burning permit system.
• Notify your local fire department and neighbors to let them know your plans to burn
• Do NOT burn on windy days
• Stay abreast of changing weather conditions
• Establish wide control lines down to bare mineral soil at least five feet wide around burn piles
• Keep fire containment equipment on hand during the fire (e.g. rake, shovel, water)
• Stay with the fire until it is completely out. It's the law!