October 23, 2025 (Moscow, Idaho) — The City of Moscow Fire Department announces that the 2025 Fall Open Burning Season will run from October 24 through December 1, 2025.
During this period, open burning is permitted for garden waste, tree trimmings, and brush only. No written permit is required. However, all burning must comply with the guidelines outlined below.
Open Burning Guidelines
- Fires must be at least 25 feet from any building, structure, or combustible material when the pile is 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height.
- Larger piles require a minimum of 50 feet of clearance.
Fire Control Measures
- A garden hose or fire extinguisher must be available on-site.
- A responsible person must remain at the burn site until the fire is fully extinguished.
- Burning is only allowed by those with legal control of the property.
Prohibited Areas and Materials
- No burning on public land.
- Do not burn any materials that emit toxic smoke, dense fumes, or offensive odors.
- Burning is not permitted after dark—all fires must be completely out before leaving the site.
- No burning of demolition or construction debris.
Enforcement and Penalties
- Non-compliance with these rules may result in fines under City of Moscow Code.
- Burning will be immediately discontinued if:
- Smoke becomes offensive or creates a hazard, as determined by the Fire Chief or duty officer.
- The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issues a burn ban or air quality warning.
- For DEQ air quality updates, call (866) 790-4337 or (208) 373-0502.
Questions?
Please contact the Moscow Fire Department at (208) 882-2831 for more information.
###Story Contact: Brian Nickerson, Fire Chief
Phone: (208) 882-2831
Email: Brian Nickerson
