Check the conditions.

Don’t burn if it is windy outside, or if vegetation is very dry.

Check local regulations.

In your area, a permit is probably going to be required. You may want to call the local Cal Fire Unit at 530.233.2723 for information on how to obtain one.

Burnable.....and not.....

You can burn dry, natural vegetation, grown on the property, Household trash, plastic or tires are not good for the environment and are illegal to burn. 

Look up.

Choose a safe burning site away from power lines, overhanging limbs, buildings, vehicles, and equipment. You’ll need at least three times the height of the pile of vertical clearance.

Look around.

The site should be surrounded by gravel or mineral soil (dirt) at least 10 feet in all directions. Keep the surroundings watered down during the burn and have a shovel close by.

Prepare your pile.

Keep your piles small and manageable. Add additional debris as the fire burns down.

If using a burn barrel, make sure it’s made entirely of metal, properly equipped (at least three evenly-spaced, three-inch, screened vents and metal top screen) and in good condition.
 

ALWAYS STAY WITH THE FIRE UNTIL IT IS OUT!

Drown the fire with water, turn over the ashes with a shovel and drown it again. Repeat several times.

Check the burn area regularly over the next several days and up to several weeks following the burn, especially if the weather is warm, dry, and windy.