What are the current rules about bonfires and large burns?

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A statewide burn restriction is in effect in the area, but what exactly does that mean for your holiday weekend?

The burn restriction spans from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. when winds are usually stronger and more likely to spread embers.

Outside of those hours, you need a burn permit inside city limits and should call dispatch to advise them of a large burn if you are in Bowling Green. 

Does this apply to small bonfires?

Well, according to the Bowling Green Fire Department, if the fire is contained within a small metal or stone fire pit, referred to as “social fires,” to roast marshmallows or hotdogs, then it is allowed. 

But, the fire department urges people to use caution and have a water source available nearby in case a stray ember starts an unintended fire. 

“The best thing to do, first, right off, is to dial 911 and get the fire department on the way. If you’re able to put it out, if it’s small, even after that, they will still probably send a truck just to make sure that the area is safe after that, maybe wet the grass down or something like that so it doesn’t occur again. But the first thing is call 911, at least get the fire department on the way. They can always be canceled after that,” said Coleman. 

However, forest fire hazard season differs from individual county-wide burn bans. These executive orders, which currently only apply to Barren, Laurel, Logan, Metcalfe, Nelson, Russell and Washington counties, normally prohibit all outdoor burning until further notice.

In some counties, exceptions are made for cooking on grills designed for outdoor food preparation, with no other open fires or outdoor cooking methods permitted. To see guidelines, check your local burn ban information.

To apply for a burn permit in Bowling Green, you can visit the city fire department’s website.