Getting a permit for outdoor burning has become faster and easier. Permits from the Georgia Forestry Commission are now issued instantly online at GaTrees.org when conditions are safe for burning hand-piled natural vegetation in your community. Acreage and machine-piled burn permits for Lowndes County are issued by the local GFC county office at 229-333-5267.

Burn permits are issued 24 hours a day at GaTrees.org. Permits are valid for the day on which they are issued. Permits issued after dark will be good on the following day (if that county is approving permits for that day.)

Residents may also receive burn permits via the automatic phone system by calling 1-877-OK2-BURN (1-877-652-2876).

What can be burned? Permits are required for burning all natural vegetation that is hand piled, including leaf piles on the premises where they fall, and vegetative debris from storm damage, weed abatement, disease and/or pest prevention. It is unlawful to burn all man-made materials such as tires, shingles, plastic and lumber.

Why is this better? The new automated system saves time when customers use the same computer whenever a permit is requested; the system “remembers” the customer and utilizes previously filed data to hasten the process.

The new system benefits communities by providing information about the location of permitted area burns and contact information for those in charge.

What’s at risk? Failure to secure a valid burn permit may result in penalties. If an unpermitted fire escapes and causes wildfire, suppression charges will be levied. The average suppression charge is $200.

Prescribe burning can help slow wildfire. Requests for prescribe burning are expected to increase this year, due to last season’s wet weather and residents’ inability to burn. Firebreak, harrowing, and prescribe fire services are offered by the GFC on a first-come first- served basis. Contact the Lowndes County GFC office for more information at 229-333-5267 or visit GaTrees.org.