MFC Creates New Online Burn Permit System
The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) recently launched a new online system for landowners to obtain forestry and agricultural burn permits, streamlining the process and strengthening safety measures for prescribed fire across the state.
The digital platform makes it easier for landowners to comply with state regulations while supporting safe, responsible land management.
Burn permits help:
- Meet legal requirements for liability protection
- Notify first responders of planned burns
- Enable rapid response if a fire escapes
- Ensure burns occur under favorable smoke-dispersion conditions
“Prescribed burning is one of the most effective and affordable land management tools available to landowners,” said Randy Giachelli, MFC’s Fire Chief. “By moving this system online, we’re making the process more accessible while helping protect communities, natural resources, and property.”
Under Mississippi law (§49-19-303), forestry and agricultural landowners have the right to conduct prescribed burns. Additional liability protection is available by abiding by the Mississippi Prescribed Burning Act (§49-19-301 — §49-19-307), which requires:
- Obtaining an MFC burn permit
- Preparing a notarized prescribed burn plan
- Supervision by a Certified Prescribed Burn Manager
- Ensuring the burn serves the public interest
The MFC offers training and certification for prescribed burn managers, guidance on drafting burn plans, and resources on smoke-sensitive areas. Landowners are also encouraged to consult the Voluntary Smoke Management Guidelines before conducting burns.
It is important to note that the MFC permits are strictly for forestry and agricultural burns. For residential, land-clearing, or storm debris burning, residents should follow local ordinances and Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) guidelines.
The new system integrates daily fire weather forecasts from National Weather Service offices in Memphis, Jackson, New Orleans, and Mobile. Day permits are posted between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m., and night permits are available around 3–4 p.m. Applicants are encouraged to apply promptly, as updated forecasts may close permitting windows. Additional features include an interactive map of current permits, allowing first responders and the public to confirm authorized burns before responding to smoke reports.
To obtain a burn permit, applicants must provide:
- County and burn type (day/night)
- Responsible party information (name, contact details, certified burn manager status)
- Purpose (forestry or agricultural)
- Landowner’s name, email, and address
- Acreage to be burned
To view the burn permit portal, click here.
