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Boulder County Burn Permits

An open burning permit must be obtained by any individual, company, government agency, or other entity prior to conducting any open burning activity. This requirement helps to ensure the health and quality of the air in our communities. (See Colorado Air Quality Control Commission Regulation No. 9.) Unrestricted open burning of materials has been found to be detrimental to the environment, public health, and general air quality in Colorado. Permits may be denied if a practical alternative method of disposal exists. (See alternatives to burning.)

• For all burns, you are required to contact both:
• Your local fire department at least 3 days prior to the burn, and
• Boulder County Communications at 303-441-4444 on the day of the burn.

• Burn permit requirements and restrictions are dependant on the season in which you request to burn, as well as air and ozone levels and local bans. Please select the option below that reflects your situation:
• Individual Resident, Spring/Summer/Fall (March 1 – October 31)
• Individual Resident, Winter (November 1 – March 31)
• Land Management Agency (prescribed burns and planned/unplanned ignition fires)

• No permits will be issued for:
• Burning trash in Boulder County
• Burning within any city limits
• Paul Nor Subdivision
• Louisville Fire Protection District
• Coal Creek Fire Protection District (unless there is at least 4” of snow on the ground). A permit must also be issued by CCFPD
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• There are some circumstances in which a burn permit is not required:
• Agricultural open burning
• Recreational fires
• Training fires