Burning Permits

Recreational Burning Permits are valid through the calendar year, 1/1 - 12/31.

Permits are required for all recreational fires. Applicants MUST be the property owner. If the property is zoned as a rental property, property owners may fill out the application form giving permission to specific occupants. This permit allows for the burning of clean, dry firewood ONLY in an approved non-combustible ring or pit at least 8 inches in height or depth and maximum diameter of 36", located at least 25 feet from buildings or within an approved manufactured fireplace located at least 15 feet from buildings. Gas fire pits, due to open flame, require a permit also. Please familiarize yourself with all regulations of the ordinance.

Get your new Recreational Burning Permit by:

  • THE CITY IS CURRENTLY EXPERIENCING CREDIT CARD PROCESSING ISSUES WITH THE ON-LINE SYSTEM. IF YOU WANT TO USE A CREDIT CARD TO PURCHASE YOUR PERMIT THE ONLY OPTION IS TO COME INTO STATION 1/FIRE HEADQUARTERS DURING OUR POSTED OPEN HOURS:
    • Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    • 101 10th Avenue North
    • Credit card, check or exact change cash accepted.
  • OTHERWISE PLEASE UTILIZE ONE OF THE OPTIONS LISTED BELOW:
    • If after business hours, the applications are available outside front door of Station One and can be placed in drop box with payment (cash or check). You will receive your permit via email or U.S. mail per your request on the form.  OR
    • Mail an online Burning Permit Application form into the station with a check made out to City of St. Cloud and we will mail or email the permit to you within a few days.  
  • Owner's permission is required for non-owners, renters, to get a Recreational Burning Permit.
Agricultural Burning :  Applicant MUST be zoned Agricultural.  An agricultural permit gives permission to burn dried leaves, brush, and untreated scrap lumber, subject to all the terms and conditions contained in the permit. You CANNOT burn any material other than that permitted, including, but not limited to, treated lumber, debris, or refuse material.  Burning is permitted, in accordance with the terms of the permit, for a five-day period. Applicants can apply for this permit in person at Fire Station 1 or fill out the Burning Permit Application form and mail it with a check to Fire Station 1.

Prescribed Burning

 :  This permit is intended for Resource Management and Prairie Restoration.  Applicant must return application in advance for review and approval by the Fire Marshal.  More details can be found on the Prescribed Burn Application form.  
Recreational Burn camp fire