← North Dakota burn ban rules›Open Burning Rules
North Dakota Open Burning Rules (2026)
Conditional: Open burning of refuse is generally restricted; agricultural crop, land-clearing and right-of-way burning are permissible categories.
Open burning of refuse is generally restricted; agricultural crop, land-clearing and right-of-way burning are permissible categories. Some require a DEQ variance (signed by local health unit + fire dept). No burning of tires, plastics or treated wood.
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Open Burning Rules in states bordering North Dakota
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- MinnesotaConditional
A DNR burning permit is required to burn debris like dry leaves and brush. Permits are issued online/by phone and are only valid when conditions are safe; they are not issued in fire-prone areas during high-danger spring periods. Burn hours typically 6pm-8am.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: dnr.state.mn.us · Full Minnesota rule →
- MontanaConditional
Open burning of yard/land debris is allowed year-round but requires a permit from your local county fire-control authority. DEQ regulates seasonal periods (fall county-wide restrictions, winter by request in the western zone). Prohibited: garbage, plastics, treated lumber.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: deq.mt.gov · Full Montana rule →
- South DakotaConditional
Open burning of slash piles/yard debris in the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District needs a temporary permit from SD Wildland Fire, issued Nov 1–Mar 31 and valid only with continuous snow cover. Incorporated towns set their own rules; check with local officials elsewhere.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: wildlandfire.sd.gov · Full South Dakota rule →
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