News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers are reminded that it is illegal to burn grass without a permit from the Department of Natural Resources.

To date, about 100 grass fires have been reported in the province this year. At least one grass fire resulted in substantial damage to a home, and others have spread to cause a number of forest fires.

Fines for starting a grass fire without a permit range from $500 to $20,500. Penalties can also include the cost of fighting a fire.

The 2013 forest-fire season in New Brunswick began April 15 and ends Monday, Oct. 31.

The 24-hour toll-free Burning Permit Information line will operate throughout the fire season. To find out whether burning is permitted at a particular place and time, residents should call 1-866-458-8080. The line does not apply to areas inside cities and towns. For information about campfires and brushfires within cities and towns, contact your local municipality for any restrictions that may apply.

The department encourages mulching, composting or hauling debris to a local landfill as alternate methods of disposal. A written permit from the department is required for any fire larger than a category 1.

Grass fires are a major concern during the spring and can cause serious damage to agricultural and forested lands. Forest fire officials warn New Brunswickers not to light grass fires in fields because they can quickly spread to nearby forests. People who feel they must burn grass are required to submit a written burn plan to the department, have an inspection beforehand and then receive a written permit with departmental guidelines attached.

For further information, call 1-866-458-8080, go online, or visit any Department of Natural Resources regional or district office.