Residents who plan to burn yard debris in unincorporated Williamson County will need a state permit starting Thursday, Oct. 15.

Williamson County Fire and Rescue Services said on X on Monday, Oct. 12, that burn permits are required from Oct. 15 through May 15, 2027, for outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the county. The department also warned that most cities in Williamson County prohibit open yard debris burning outright.

The Williamson County Emergency Management Agency amplified the reminder on Tuesday, Oct. 13.

What the permit covers

The Tennessee Division of Forestry (TDF) requires the permits for debris pile fires and prescribed fires, according to the state's burn permit page. That includes leaf piles, branches, hurricane storm debris and prescribed burns on wooded land.

Each permit is good for one day only. Residents must obtain a permit on the same day they intend to burn, and the fire must be out by midnight.

Fires in containers or barrels covered with half-inch mesh screen, ceremonial fires and grilling do not require a permit.

How to get a permit

Permits are available online seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Central time. Residents can also call 877-350-BURN (2876) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except holidays.

Anyone burning wooded land must notify adjacent landowners at least two days in advance, as required by state law. The TDF states that permits are not issued on dry, windy days and that permit holders should stop burning if strong winds arise.

City rules differ

Local burning rules supersede the state permit program, and several Williamson County cities have stricter regulations.

Franklin prohibits burning brush and trash entirely, according to the city's fire safety page. Campfires and bonfires are allowed with a burn permit from the Franklin Fire Department. Above-ground fire pits, chimineas and smokeless fire pits do not require a permit in Franklin.

The Fairview Fire Department has issued a burn ban due to ongoing drought conditions, covering all recreational burning including fire pits. Natural gas fire pits are the only exception. The department said it will not issue burn permits until the area receives adequate rainfall.

Wildfire risk and liability

Escaped debris burns are the leading cause of wildfires in the United States and in Tennessee, according to the TDF. The state agency warns that property owners may be held liable for any damage their fires or smoke cause to neighboring property.

When wildfire risk is elevated, the TDF can temporarily pause permit issuance. A full burn ban prohibits all open-air burning, including campfires and grills. The Commissioner of Agriculture or the Governor can issue one for specific counties or statewide.

Residents can report illegal burning toll-free at 1-888-891-TDEC.