To view this information in a printable format, including a list of township fire wardens and fire officials, click HERE.

Carver County Open Burning Permits

Who Can Obtain a Permit?

Open burning permits are available to:

• Residents of unincorporated areas (townships)
• Residents of the City of Hamburg

If you live in one of the following cities, you must contact your local city authority for burning regulations:

• Carver
• Chanhassen
• Chaska
• Cologne
• Mayer
• New Germany
• Norwood Young America
• Victoria
• Waconia
• Watertown

MNDNR burn permit information

Frequently Asked Questions

Who regulates open burning in Carver County?

Open burning is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Carver County Ordinance, which incorporates both state and local standards. Local municipalities may have more restrictive rules.

When is a permit required?

A permit is required year-round, regardless of snow cover, for all open burning except:

• Recreational fires that are less than three feet in height and three feet in diameter

Note: Some municipalities may require permits for recreational fires.

What materials can be burned?

Permitted materials:

• Tree debris
• Other vegetation (excluding leaves)

Prohibited materials:

• Leaves (illegal due to smoke nuisance)
• Garbage or household waste
• Materials not generated on the property where the fire occurs

Exception: Recreational fires may use off-site wood if it complies with transportation rules (e.g., emerald ash borer regulations).

Can I burn waste from another property?

No. Permits are only valid for burning materials generated on the same property where the fire will take place.

What about structure fires or large-scale burns?

• Structure fires and running fires over one acre must be reviewed and approved by the DNR.
• Running fires of one acre or less may be permitted by Carver County Environmental Services or a local Fire Warden.

How do I obtain a permit?

Permits can be obtained:

• Online through the DNR’s Burning Permit Portal
• From a local Fire Warden (only for residents within their jurisdiction)
• From Carver County Environmental Services

How long is a permit valid?

Permits are valid from the date of issue through December 31 of the same calendar year.

What does a permit cost?

• Online DNR permit: $5.00 (fee set by the DNR)
• County-issued permit: $5.00 (fee set by the Carver County Board of Commissioners)
• Fire Warden or local authority permits: Fees may vary by jurisdiction

Can I burn garbage?

No. Burning solid waste from homes, businesses, or farms is prohibited.

Exception: Farm properties may burn baling twine and paper feed sacks without plastic liners.

Can I burn leaves?

No. Burning leaves is illegal due to the smoke and air quality concerns.