DNR halts open burning in metro counties amid wildfire risk

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is imposing spring open burning restrictions in 32 counties starting Monday, March 30, including key Twin Cities metro counties Anoka, Hennepin, Ramsey and Washington, because warm, dry conditions are driving up wildfire risk. During the ban, the DNR will not issue permits for burning brush or yard waste in these counties, and anyone who lights a fire that rekindles or escapes can be held liable for damages and suppression costs. Officials say more than 90% of Minnesota wildfires are human‑caused, and the period after snowmelt but before green‑up is when grass and brush fires spread fastest. Residents are being pushed toward alternatives like composting, chipping or hauling brush to collection sites, and the agency says restrictions and risk maps will be updated as conditions change on its wildfire danger and burning restrictions webpage. For metro homeowners used to spring burn piles, this is a hard stop backed by fines, not a suggestion.