DNR Lifts Most Northern MN Burn Bans, Keeps Northeast on Alert

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources announced the relaxation of open burning restrictions in 14 northern counties following improved weather conditions that lowered wildfire risks across much of the region.[3] The move comes after expanded bans took effect at 8 a.m. on April 20, covering counties including Becker, Beltrami North, Carlton, Clearwater, Itasca, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau and St. Louis, in addition to dozens already restricted statewide.[1][2][4] A National Weather Service Red Flag Warning had blanketed 66 counties that day until 8 p.m., driven by low humidity, winds and warm temperatures ripe for escaped burns—the top cause of Minnesota wildfires.[2][6][7] Class III restrictions persist in the northeastern tip, specifically Cook and Lake counties, where no campfires are allowed on state, county or private lands for dispersed, remote or backcountry camping; camping stoves remain permitted.[3] DNR acting Wildfire Prevention Supervisor Allisa Reynolds stated, “These changes reflect reduced wildfire risks for much of the north, while also recognizing that wildfire danger remains high in Cook and Lake counties.”[3] Earlier, DNR wildfire prevention specialist Karen Harrison noted the restrictions' impact: “They’ve helped reduce wildfires by more than 30% over the past decade.”[2] The DNR suspended permits for brush and yard waste burning in restricted areas until further notice, holding violators liable for damages from rekindled or escaped fires.[1][4] Officials urged avoiding all outdoor burning amid the April spike in risks, with monitoring ongoing through fall.[1][3] Northern and western Minnesota saw heightened fire weather watches, underscoring the state's vulnerability during dry springs.[1]