WHITE CLOUD, Mich. (WOOD) — Due to the dry conditions, open burning is prohibited, and burn permits will not be issued in Newaygo County.
According to Newaygo County Emergency Services, open burning is not permitted in the county due to “extreme fire danger.” Anyone who violates state law and burns without a permit will be held liable for any damages caused by the fire.
Several local fire departments have responded to complaints of open burning, according to Newaygo County Emergency Services
The ban prohibits the burning of leaves and debris and includes burn barrels and other types of open burning. Recreational campfires are still allowed.
The combination of strong winds and warm temperatures has elevated the fire danger throughout the county.
A hazardous weather outlook has been issued by the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids for parts of southwest Lower Michigan through Saturday. According to the outlook, dry air will make it easier for small fires to spread out of control amid dry vegetation.
Fire danger will continue to be high into Saturday as southeast winds gust up to 30 mph to 25 mph, which will make fires spread quickly.
Rain is forecast for Saturday evening, which will reduce the fire threat in areas that receive the precipitation.
Permits are issued through Michigan.gov/BurnPermit, which is the website of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
It is recommended that residents regularly check the website to see when restrictions are being placed or lifted.
