By Allison Peck | The Post
Local restrictions remain in effect as officials respond to confusion following lifted state ban.
Despite the state lifting its burn ban, local restrictions remain in place in North Platte.
Fire Chief Dennis Thompson says both the city and the North Platte Rural Fire District are still under a burn ban, and residents outside those areas should check with their local departments.
The recent change at the state level has led to some confusion about what is actually allowed.
“We have responded to a few minor fires simply because of confusion after the Governor ‘lifted’ his Statewide Declaration,” Thompson said.
He pointed directly to state law when explaining how burn restrictions are handled.
“Per State Statute 81-520.01 Statewide Open Burning Ban, there shall be a statewide open burning ban on all bonfires, outdoor rubbish, and fires for the purpose of clearing land. The fire chief of a local fire department may waive this ban in his or her jurisdiction by issuing an open burning permit. This permit shall be in writing, signed by the fire chief or his or her designee, on a form prescribed by the State Fire Marshal. The fire chief may waive the open burning ban in his or her jurisdiction when conditions are acceptable to the fire chief or his or her designee.”
Even when there isn’t a statewide order, open burning in Nebraska is still regulated. “365 days a year,” Thompson said.
Under state law, fires such as bonfires, burning yard debris, and land clearing burns require approval from a local fire chief when conditions allow. Thompson said that approval is not being granted locally right now.
When conditions do allow for open burning, permits for North Platte residents can be obtained at the North Platte Fire Department business office at 715 South Jeffers.
Fire risk remains a concern across the area.
“Conditions in our jurisdiction remain moderate to high,” Thompson said. “This varies day to day depending on weather factors, wind, humidity, and recent precipitation. The various types of fuels and topography also play a role in managing these wildland fires once they start."
Fire officials are continuing to watch conditions closely as the region moves into what could be an active wildfire season.
“Please be patient as your local fire departments continue to closely monitor recent fires and prepare for what is likely to be an active wildfire season,” Thompson said.
Some covered backyard fire pits are still allowed, but caution is being urged.
“We all have a vested interest in looking out for each other,” Thompson said.
Thompson encouraged residents to stay aware of changing conditions, "Follow your trusted news sources for updates on rapidly changing fire conditions, Red Flag Warnings and Critical Fire Conditions in your area."
He also urges individuals to contact their local fire department with any questions about restrictions.