Burning restrictions have been lifted

Spring burning restrictions have been lifted, effective immediately, for all counties in Minnesota.

According to a press release, the expected date of May 26 was moved up due to the widespread rain.

The following counties will return to normal burning permits at 6 p.m. today in the Bemidji Forestry Area: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Cass, Polk, Red Lake and Mahnomen.

Burning permits may be issued for hand-piled debris and running grass less than one acre for up to three days; hours are 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Permits must be activated each evening before burning.

Daytime burns, running fires, and large slash piles will require a variance permit approved by a forester.

Campfires do not require a permit.