As many of us begin spending more time outdoors during the summer months, we must keep in mind the importance of fire safety and local burn regulations. Before igniting any outdoor fire / open burn, be sure to check with the Osage Beach Fire Protection District about the potential requirement for a burn permit. Remember, you must call each day you intend to burn.
The burn number is 573-365-6407
According to the City of Osage Beach and Osage Beach Fire Protection District guidelines, the following is a list of requirements that must be met in order to ensure a safe burn:
1. The wind must be below 10 miles per hour.
2. Humidity must be above 30%.
3. The temperature must be below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. The fire must be attended at all times. The person must have a hose and rake with them to attend to the fire.
5. You can only burn yard waste. This includes leaves, branches, and untreated wood. Do not burn treated wood (chemically, painted, varnished, etc.), household trash, rubbish, waste, or refuse, including plastics or other hydrocarbons.
6. The fire must be out by dark.
7. You must call for a burn permit on the day you wish to burn. You cannot call to request a permit the day before you plan to burn.
8. When Red Flag conditions are announced by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), or the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s office issues a statewide burn ban, these will supersede requirements 1, 2, and 3 above.
9. Subjects are responsible for their controlled burn.
10. Fires must be at least 25 feet away from any structure.
In most instances, recreational fires and fires used for cooking purposes are exempt from permit requirement. However, if you have any questions or concerns, call 573-365-6407 before you burn.
Stay safe and have a great summer!
~ Ron White, Building Official
