With dry conditions persistent in the listening area, several counties implemented burn bans in an effort to prevent forest fires.

The state of Tennessee is requiring all residents to acquire a permit for all open-air burning. That requirement has been put into effect a few weeks earlier than usual. Read more about the statewide burn permit requirements here.

According to the office of Forestry and Wildlife Management, burn bans prohibit the following:

• Burning of forest, grass, crops, woodlands, marshes or other similar areas.
• Burning leaves or debris.
• Campfires, bonfires and warming fires.
• Open pit cooking and charcoal grilling.
• Use of fireworks and welding may also be prohibited or regulated.

Cumberland County is not issuing burn permits this weekend. The Crossville Fire Department announced they are not issuing any burn permits until substantial rainfall takes place.

Anyone burning without a permit is violating the law and the misdemeanor is punishable by jail time and/or a fine.