MONTGOMERY– The Alabama Forestry Commission has introduced a new online burn permitting system for Alabama Certified Prescribed Burn Managers.

The updated burn permit portal combines permit applications with fire weather information for each proposed burn area. The commission says the change should streamline requests for applicants and agency dispatchers.

New System Adds Weather and Restriction Alerts

Certified Prescribed Burn Managers, commonly called CPBMs, must create an initial user profile and complete a two-step verification process. After logging in, applicants may geolocate the proposed burn site or enter its location manually.

Once applicants provide all required information, the system will check for burn restrictions in the permit area. If no restrictions apply, it will generate a permit number and email it to the applicant.

The email will also include fire weather information for that location. In addition, the commission can use email addresses from user profiles to notify managers about burn restrictions across Alabama.

Therefore, certified managers should receive timely information that could affect planned burns.

During the rollout, managers should follow the account instructions displayed on the portal. The current landing page directs burn managers in good standing who need login credentials to contact Marti Davis at 334-240-9332.

Phone Permits Will Be Phased Out

Burn permits remain available by calling AFC Dispatch at 800-392-5679. However, the commission plans to phase out telephone permits within the next 12 months.

AFC officials encourage certified managers to begin using the online system. They say the transition will allow dispatchers to focus more attention on emergency response and wildfire suppression.

WEIS previously reported on Alabama’s prescribed-fire permitting procedures, including the availability of free online permits for certified managers. The new platform expands that service with location-specific weather information, profile-based alerts, and an updated application process.

What Is a Prescribed Burn?

Under Alabama’s Prescribed Burn Act, prescribed burning is the controlled use of fire on natural vegetation. Land managers use it for ecological, forestry, agricultural, and wildlife-management purposes.

When trained managers properly plan and conduct a prescribed burn, it can reduce hazardous fuels and support forest regeneration. It can also improve wildlife habitat and help accomplish other land-management goals.

The act outlines requirements for certain liability protections associated with certified prescribed burns. Specifically, at least one Certified Prescribed Burn Manager must supervise the fire.

The landowner or agent must also prepare a written burn prescription, obtain an AFC permit, and follow applicable laws and regulations.

Permit Holders Remain Responsible

AFC burn permit guidance says state law generally requires a permit before burning woodland, grassland, fields, or new ground exceeding one-quarter acre. State law also requires one when the burn lies within 25 feet of natural fuels, such as woods or grass.

Even with a permit, the person conducting the burn remains responsible for controlling the fire and any resulting damage. In addition, permit holders must have adequate personnel, tools, and equipment available.

They must remain with the fire until it is completely out. Local city or county burning restrictions may also apply.

Finally, the commission says it will soon add the new permitting portal to the AFC homepage. Certified managers can access the system directly through the commission’s online burn permit website.