Cass County Emergency Management Coordinator Mike Kennon reports a ban on open burning will be in place for Cass County beginning today (Thursday), at 5:00 p.m. The ban prohibits open and controlled burning in Cass County, Iowa; including all incorporated city limits within the county. Kennon says the current drought conditions in combination with unharvested crops present an increased risk for the potential of rapid fire spread. Controlled fires can quickly become uncontrollable.

During these dry conditions, citizens are reminded to not throw out cigarettes from moving vehicles and to discontinue burning yard waste, piled tree debris, grass/agricultural ground and set-asides or other items during the ban. Small recreational patio or camp fires are permitted only if they are conducted in a fire place of brick, metal or heavy one-inch wire mesh. Any camp fire not in an outdoor fire place is prohibited.

Violation of a burn ban can subject a person to citation or arrest for reckless use of fire or disobeying a burn ban. The ban — which was approved by the State Fire Marshal – will remain in place until environmental conditions improve. Any questions regarding this burn ban should be directed to your local Fire Chief.