MOSCOW, ID – The City of Moscow has announced that the spring burning season will run from March 7 through April 27. During this period, open burning is permitted for garden waste, tree trimmings, and brush only, with several safety regulations in place.

Fire officials have outlined specific requirements for those planning to burn debris:

• Fires must be at least 25 feet from any structure or combustible material if the pile is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height. Larger piles must be at least 50 feet away.
• A garden hose or fire extinguishing equipment must be readily available, and a competent person must remain at the site until the fire is fully extinguished.
• Burning on public land is prohibited.
• Toxic, dense, or offensive odors must not be produced during the burning process.
• Burning is not allowed after dark, and fires must be fully extinguished before leaving the site.
• Construction and demolition site burning is not permitted.
• The burning period does not include lot burning, leaves, grass trimmings, or paper-containing rubbish.

While no written permits are required, individuals who fail to comply with regulations may face fines under City of Moscow Code. Additionally, burning may be suspended immediately if officials determine that smoke is disruptive to nearby properties or if air quality conditions trigger a mandatory burn ban. Residents can check air quality conditions by calling (866) 790-4337 or (208) 373-0502.

For more information, contact Fire Chief Brian Nickerson at (208) 882-2831 or City Administrator Bill Belknap at (208) 883-7011.