Burn Permits

Know the rules before you burn. Stay safe and protect our community.

Current Fire Danger

Fire Danger: MODERATE

Updated Wednesday, October 21, 2026

BURNING IS OPEN — NOW THROUGH MAY 10th. No size restrictions but please call ESFD if you're burning anything larger than a 5'x5' slash pile. Please use EXTREME caution when burning and remember that you are liable for your fire. Campfires are allowed. Questions? Call East Side Fire District at 208-769-4269.

When the fire danger is "moderate" it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually pretty low. If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately. Average fire intensity will be moderate except in heavy concentrations of fuel, which may burn hot. Fires are still not likely to become serious and are often easy to control.

When is a Burn Permit Required?

Burn permits are REQUIRED to burn from May 10 through October 20. Outside of this window, burning may still be subject to current fire restrictions and air quality conditions. Always check conditions before burning.

What Can I Burn?

Burn barrel
Residential yard waste / small slash piles (maximum 5 feet high by 5 feet wide)
Recreational campfire: 3 ft wide by 2 ft tall maximum, in a designated fire pit, at least 25 ft from any structure
Large slash piles (10' x 10')
Residential wood heating

What is ALWAYS Illegal to Burn

Garbage and household waste
Tires and rubber products
Plastics and synthetic materials
Treated or painted wood
Construction debris

What do I need to do to burn?

Burning Checklist

1
If it's between May 10 and October 20, go to the Idaho Department of Lands and sign up for a burn permit (if not restricted).
2
Contact East Side Fire at 208.769.4269 and let us know you're planning to burn.
3
Check the Air Quality Forecasts on the DEQ website for Kootenai County to ensure there are no current restrictions, or call DEQ at 800.633.6247 then option #3 for Kootenai County.
4
Concerned about smoke? Call us at 208-769-4269 or 911 for an emergency.
5
Make sure you have water and/or a minimum of a shovel on scene at all times.

Quick Links

DEQ Air Quality CheckLink

Kootenai County air quality forecast. Phone 800.633.6247, option #3.

Apply for a Burn PermitLink

Idaho Department of Lands burn permit system (May 10 – Oct 20).

East Side Burning Regulations During Normal BurningDOC

East Side Fire District open burning regulations.

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions InfoPDF

What is and is not allowed under Stage 2 fire restrictions.

Stage 1 & Stage 2 Fire Restrictions — Fire Restrictions Finder MapLink

Idaho Department of Lands map of current fire restrictions.

Idaho Fire Restrictions PlanPDF

Statewide fire restrictions plan (2023, Idaho Department of Lands).

Concerned about smoke?

Call us at (208) 769-4269 or 911 for an emergency.