Starting Oct. 15, Tennesseans are required to obtain a free burn permit before burning leaves, clearing natural debris, or conducting prescribed burns outdoors. The requirement comes as state officials urge residents to exercise heightened caution during the onset of Tennessee’s wildfire season.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) issued the reminder in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week, highlighting the threat outdoor fires pose. Tennessee averages roughly 1,000 wildfires per year, which burn approximately 18,000 acres across the state.

Permits are free of charge and must be secured on the exact day burning takes place, regardless of the size of the leaf or debris pile.

Under state law, burning outdoors without a valid permit is a Class C misdemeanor.

State forestry officials emphasize that all fires must be continuously monitored and completely extinguished before the daily permit expires. Fires should never be left unattended under any circumstances.