Burning Permit

The City of St. Michael does NOT issue burning permits. All permits need to be obtained through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 

How to Obtain a Burning Permit:

Burning permits can be obtained through the MN DNR Website.

For issues with Online Permits or a Variance Permit Contact: 

Jason Kern, DNR Officer
320-232-1074
Jason.kern@state.mn.us

Burning Permit Regulations:

  • Burning hours are between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m.
  • Must be at last 5 feet onto the applicants’ property, and must be 25 feet from a structure (15 feet from approved burn barrel or 25 feet for recreational fire, not more than 3 feet in diameter by 3 feet in height).
  • Must have adequate water source nearby.
  • The fire must not be left unattended and the permit must be on the person.
  • Check the wind direction before burning.  The wind should not be directing smoke towards other residential properties.
  • Material to be burned includes: trees, brush, and weeds.  The City prohibits the burning of leaves per City Code 91.61, Sub. D.
  • Burning should be conducted away from public highways and roads so as not to create any traffic hazards.
  • Burning may be restricted during periods of dry weather.
  • Burning permits are required statewide except:
      - When the ground is snow covered at least 3 inches deep continuously surrounding the immediate area of the fire (there will be no time restrictions in         this instance).
      - For a “campfire”—a fire set for cooking, warming or ceremonial purposes, which is not more than 3 feet in diameter by 3 feet high, and has the ground      5 feet from the base of the fire cleared of all combustible material.