If you would like a burning permit, you must call (231) 724-6237 and listen to a recording of the rules below each time you request a burning permit. At the end of the recording, you will be transferred to a staff member who will issue you a permit number.

Permit rules:

• You will be held legally responsible if any of the permit conditions are violated.
• You may not burn in or within 1400 feet of an incorporated city or village.
• You may not burn within 300 feet of another occupied dwelling.
• You may not burn in any subdivision that contains 20 or more dwellings.
• The permit to burn covers only clean brush and small branches under 4 inches in diameter.
• Burning leaves is prohibited throughout Muskegon County.
• You must attend the fire at all times, and the fire must be out before dark.
• If anyone complains about the smoke or ashes, you must put the fire out.
• You must call the Fire Department and give them your burning permit number every time before you start your fire.
• You may want to obtain a complete copy of the rules before you begin.

No permits will be issued when:

• The National Weather Service predicts wind speeds of 15 miles per hour or more. This means conditions will likely be unsafe for large fires, which may become uncontrollable. In addition, ash and debris can be carried beyond the permittees area of control.
• The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has issued a fire alert. This means conditions are too dry, and inadvertent wild fire is possible.
• The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has predicted high ozone or airborne particulate. These materials can make breathing difficult for a significant portion of the community. The smoke and particulate from open fires add to the overall poor air quality during these episodes.

How to report garbage burning:

Burning of garbage is prohibited by the Muskegon County Air Pollution Control Rules and Regulations and punishable with monetary penalties not to exceed $100.00 for each day during which the violation continues or by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding 90 days.

To report this offense during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00-5:00), please call us at (231) 724-6208. If the burning occurs during the weekend or evening, you may contact your local fire department, or our office during regular business hours, to make a complaint. The local fire authority and law enforcement agency can respond to illegal burning events.

Other Useful Information

Muskegon County Air Pollution Control Rules & Regulations

Fire Safety - Michigan DNR