Updated February 15, 2019

Giles County and the state of Tennessee saw a record low in 2018 of wildfires thanks to favorable weather and citizens who burned debris safely.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry is working to continue that trend throughout 2019 by reminding citizens that if they plan to burn outdoors, a burn permit is required.

State Forester David Arnold said the abundant rainfall throughout the year was certainly a factor for the record low in 2018, however, when residents obtain a burn permit and follow the instructions that go along with the permit, it is less likely for a fire to accidentally escape. 

The permitting system provides a way for Giles County landowners to know when, where, and how it is safe to burn.

 Obtaining a burn permit is free, fast, and simple. If you are burning a leaf or brush pile that is smaller than 8 feet by 8 feet in size, online system provides a quick and efficient way to apply. For a larger burn, call your local Division of Forestry burn permit phone number Mon. through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The online system and burn permit phone numbers can be found at www.BurnSafeTN.org.

 Burning without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine. Wildfires caused by arson are a class C felony punishable by 3 to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.