Burn Permits & Fire Department

Burn Permits

Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Burn Permits Management System
(866) 922-2876
Local ordinances and restrictions may also apply depending on local conditions.

First, view a map of Michigan counties for MI DNR burn permit information at (MI “Can I Burn Today?”). The Michigan DNR burning RULES and RESTRICTIONS can be found on the MI DNR website (Permission to Burn – Burn Permits). The DNR website also provides safety information intended to reduce the chance of damage, injury, or harm from burning. Further, smoke is a nuisance and many individuals cannot tolerate it – there is a reasonable expectation to breath and enjoy a smoke-free environment. Smoke can also do property damage.

Be advised, local conditions, ordinances, and restrictions (e.g., no burn zones) shall restrict burning over and above MI DNR permits. Local area fire stations, camp ground organizers, hamlet associations, and similar entities shall be consulted before burning. Each year, individuals are responsible for the destruction to property and wildlife habitats plus injury and even deaths from small yard and campfires (including fire rings) that grow out-of-control. Property Owners are RESPONSIBLE for their guest(s) activity on their property.

Burn permits are available from the Michigan DNR for counties in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula only. In the southern Lower Peninsula, permits may be obtained from the local fire department or local governing body. For more information, call 866-922-BURN (866-922-2876). Be advised, local conditions, ordinances, and restrictions (e.g., no burn zones) shall restrict burning over and above MI DNR permits. Local area fire stations, camp ground organizers, hamlet associations, and similar entities need to be consulted before burning.

National Fire Danger Ratings System  Click Here
Read more about the National Fire Danger Rating System. Knowledge of the levels of fire danger is an important source to make decisions about whether or not to have a campfire, open burn, or ride a recreation vehicle in a grassy area.

Property Owners are RESPONSIBLE for their guest(s) use and activity.
Violations are civil infractions which include fines, property tax liens, and other legal remedies.

Nuisances, Violations & Fines
The Township Ordinances include rules and regulations about nuisances and illegal activity, such as, problem ORV riders, illegal campfires, or any burning that can threaten the general welfare of the community. This includes smoke.

Fire Department

Harbor Springs Area Fire Department Station #1
   824 South State Road, Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Harbor Springs Area Fire Department Station #2
   8288 South Pleasantview Road, Harbor Springs, MI 49740

The Fire Department is certified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Anyone within a five mile radius of the substation may qualify for a reduction in their homeowners insurance. Call your insurance agency to see if you qualify!