A statewide burn ban was issued in Louisiana on August 7 due to extremely dry conditions.
Louisiana State Fire Marshal Dan Wallis and Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain have issued a statewide cease and desist order (burn ban) for all private burning due to the extremely dry conditions and concern over first responder safety in the dangerously high temperatures.
This order, authorized under R.S. 40:1602, prohibits private burning except with permission from the local fire department or local government.
The order is effective as of 5:00 p.m. on August 7, 2023, and will remain in effect until rescinded. This ban does not apply to prescribed burns by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, certified individuals, or those who conduct prescribed burning as a “generally accepted agriculture practice” as defined by the Louisiana Right to Farm Law (R.S. 3:3601 et seq.).
The use of barbeque grills, fire pits, and small campfires for brief, recreational purposes are allowed and not affected by the burn ban.
Violation of this Fire Marshal order could result in criminal and/or civil penalties.