Open Burning
THE BACKYARD BURN SEASON IS CLOSED UNTIL DECEMBER 1, 2021.
In an already challenging year, the Monterey Bay Air Resources District has been working to simplify many of the permitting and grant program application processes. This new, easier application process will now include the Backyard and Agricultural Permit Programs.
The following are some of the changes to expect:
- NO more Usernames and Passwords!
- NO more Renewals
- Simple annual form to fill out and submit
- SLV BURNERS: the authorization process will be accessed by a simple link included in your permit email.
We hope this change will be welcome and the new process simple. Should you have any questions you can contact us, as always, for assistance.
Smoke management is the use of techniques such as meteorology, fuel moisture, fuel loading, fire suppression and other burn methods to minimize the smoke impacts from fires. Accordingly, the purpose of the MBARD's Smoke Management Program is to minimize the air quality impacts of open burning.
Backyard burning is the burning of green waste material by occupants of single- or two-family dwellings. Backyard burn season is December 1 through April 30.
Backyard Burn Permit Online Application (currently unavailable)
BROCHURE: Backyard Burning of Dry Vegetation in San Lorenzo Valley
BROCHURE: Backyard Burning of Dry Vegetation in Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties (excluding San Lorenzo Valley)
Agricultural burning is used in the growing of crops, the raising of fowl, animals, or bees as a gainful occupation.
Agricultural Burn Permit Online Application
Prescribed burning is the use of broadcast or pile burns for the purposes of managing wildlands, range improvement, or improving wildlife habitat.
Apply here for a Prescribed Burn Permit
Development burns are for disposing of dry vegetation grown on a property being developed for commercial or residential purposes. Please contact the MBARD office to apply for a Development Burn Permit.
Applicable Rules and Regulations:
Rule 438 Title 17: Smoke Management Guidelines for Agricultural and Prescribed Burning
Burn Type Information
What are the Different Types of Burns?Trash Burning BanWarming Fires Guidelines
Health Effects of Smoke
How Smoke Can Affect Your HealthVisibility and Particle Concentration
Recent Press Releases
BEU CAL FIRE Burn Permit Suspension 1-13-2021.pdfSanta Cruz County Burn Ban Lifted.pdfMonterey and San Benito Counties Burn Ban Lifted.pdf