Burning Ordinance

 Tanker 12 at Maple River Grain elevator (Casselton)

A Cass County ordinance passed July 2005 requires that county residents notify the Red River Regional Dispatch Center at 451-7660 before starting an open fire. Failure to call may result in civil penalties for the cost of fire response. Local fire departments also request advance notice of a burn.

The ordinance also authorizes the Cass County Sheriff to order a temporary county-wide open burning ban when conditions make it dangerous for outdoor burning. The public will be notified if a ban takes place and bans will remain in effect no longer than 30 days. The penalty for ban violation can be up to a $500 fine. Information about fire conditions will be posted on the Cass County web site at the following link: www.co.cass.nd.us/departments/sheriff

North Dakota law states:

  • A person is guilty of a felony if he/she intentionally starts a fire and puts another person in danger of injury or death; places a building in danger; or causes more than $2,000 in property damage.
  • Anyone who unlawfully sets fire to any woods, prairie, marsh, hay, weeds, grass or stubble lands is guilty of a misdemeanor.
  • If you set a fire legally and the fire gets out of your control, you are liable for civil damages.
  • If you leave a campfire or other fire without extinguishing it thoroughly, you are guilty of a misdemeanor.

Be aware of your liability - Landowners conducting burns are liable for any and all damages ocurring as a result of their actions. Civil penalties for rule violations can result in fines of up to $10,000. Land owners may be responsible for costs of fire suppression activities when procedures are not followed.

Dean Hoffmeyer and Ryan Radermacher at the Don Gill practice burn

Violations - The Cass County State's Attorney will prosecute those who violate the state's fire-related laws.

Evaluate Conditions - Determine if weather conditions are acceptable for a safe burn. Evaluate on-ground conditions to assess the risk.

Communicate with the local authorities - Call the Red River Dispatch Center at 451-7660 to provide the location of your proposed burn to prevent a false fire call (the 911 call center will make note of the information). Contact Casselton Fire at 347-4026 to discuss the proposed burn.

Manage the burn - Remain on the scene and supervise the entire burn. Have appropriate fire suppression equipment on-hand.