Pinal County suspending issuance of open burn permits

This year’s more frequent winter rains contributed to wildflower, brush and native plant growth, which will soon dry.

The annual cycle of rising temperatures will quickly dry seasonal vegetation, leading to an acute wildfire risk in the desert and upland areas of the county.  Wildfires threaten public safety, and the resulting smoke threatens public health.

Pinal County Air Quality will soon stop issuing burn permits. Typically, the issuance of open burning permits stops toward the end of April, with all permits expiring by May 1.
 
In an effort to give the citizens of Pinal County timely information, Pinal County Air Quality urges residents to apply now if they wish to obtain a permit. 
 
“Burn permits are most commonly requested so that people can safely dispose of leaves, branches and other wood debris on their property without having to haul it away,” said Don Gabrielson, director of Pinal County’s air quality program. “This is safe to do only until the desert starts drying and our air quality begins to decline due to the summer heat and weather effects.”

As of April 1, 2010, Pinal County Air Quality will only issue 3-day open burning permits.  All permits will expire by May 1, 2010.
 
Pinal County Air Quality will suspend the issuance of all open burning permits starting April 29, 2010, continuing until further notice.
 
“The suspension will continue until the summer monsoons arrive and mitigate the dual risks to public safety and public health,” Gabrielson said.
 
Additional information on the Pinal County air quality program can be found at www.pinalcountyaz.gov  or by calling the Pinal County Air Quality Division at 520-866-6929.
 
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