Cal Fire Suspends Burn Permits: Sacramento Region Fire Danger High

Michael

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Post on Jun 20, 2025

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Cal Fire Suspends Burn Permits in Sacramento Region Amid High Fire Danger

Sacramento, CA – October 26, 2023 – The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) has announced a temporary suspension of all burn permits in the Sacramento Valley region due to critically high fire danger. The decision comes as dry conditions and strong winds create an extremely volatile environment, increasing the risk of wildfires spreading rapidly and uncontrollably. This suspension impacts both agricultural and residential burning activities.

This isn't the first time this year Cal Fire has taken such drastic measures. Earlier in the summer, similar suspensions were enacted across the state due to extreme heat and drought conditions. [Link to previous Cal Fire burn suspension news article]

<h3>Why the Suspension?</h3>

The current conditions pose a significant threat. Cal Fire officials cite several factors contributing to the high fire danger:

• Extreme Drought: The prolonged drought has left vegetation incredibly dry and flammable, acting as readily available fuel for any ignited fire.
• Strong Winds: Gusty winds are predicted to continue, rapidly spreading any flames and making containment significantly more difficult.
• Low Humidity: The low humidity levels exacerbate the dryness of vegetation, further increasing the risk of ignition and rapid fire spread.

These combined factors create a "perfect storm" for devastating wildfires, prompting Cal Fire to prioritize public safety by suspending burn permits.

<h3>What Does This Mean for Residents?</h3>

The suspension means that all burning activities requiring a permit are prohibited until further notice. This includes:

• Agricultural Burning: Farmers and agricultural operations are prohibited from conducting any controlled burns.
• Residential Burning: Any backyard burning, including campfires, is prohibited.
• Land Clearing: Projects involving land clearing through burning are also suspended.

Violation of this burn ban can result in significant fines and even criminal charges. Cal Fire urges residents to exercise extreme caution during this period.

<h3>What Can You Do?</h3>

While Cal Fire's suspension is in place, residents can still take steps to mitigate fire risks on their property. These include:

• Clearing defensible space: Remove dry brush and debris from around your home, creating a buffer zone to prevent fire from spreading. [Link to Cal Fire defensible space guide]
• Maintaining equipment: Ensure all lawnmowers and other equipment are properly maintained and free of flammable materials.
• Staying informed: Monitor weather forecasts and Cal Fire advisories for updates on fire danger and burn permit status. [Link to Cal Fire website]
• Reporting fires: Immediately report any wildfire to emergency services by calling 911.

The suspension will remain in effect until conditions improve and fire danger decreases significantly. Cal Fire will announce the lifting of the burn ban through official channels once it's deemed safe to resume controlled burning activities. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and help keep our communities safe.

Call to Action: Check the Cal Fire website regularly for updates on the burn permit status in your area. Your vigilance is crucial in preventing wildfires.