Vermont Communities Suspend Outdoor Burn Permits

Local fire departments are prohibiting outdoor fires as dry conditions and high fire risk grip the state.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Current Conditions

Vermont Communities Suspend Outdoor Burn Permits

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Is it a good time for local authorities to implement stricter outdoor burn bans?

Numerous Vermont communities have stopped issuing outdoor burn permits to prevent wildfires amid extremely dry conditions. The state currently maintains a high fire danger rating, with most regions classified as at least abnormally dry.

Why it matters

The prohibition on burning aims to mitigate the threat of wildfires created by persistent dry weather. With no rain in the forecast, fire danger is expected to remain elevated across the region.

Official U.S. Drought Monitor reports place portions of Orange, Washington, Lamoille, Caledonia, Orleans, and Essex counties into drought conditions. The state is currently facing an elevated fire risk, prompting burn bans in 10 specific communities.

The players

Waterford Volunteer Fire Department

This local emergency agency serves the residents of Waterford and is responsible for enforcing fire safety regulations within its jurisdiction.

U.S. Drought Monitor

This interagency effort produces weekly maps and data assessing drought conditions across the United States to inform public policy and resource management.

The details

Local fire departments have halted the issuance of outdoor burn permits in towns including Barre Town, Burke, Cambridge, Cavendish, Dummerston, Lyndonville, Newark, Putney, Vernon, and Waterford. The Waterford Volunteer Fire Department has implemented a total prohibition on all outdoor burning due to the heightened risk of uncontrolled fires.

October 22, 2026: The Waterford Volunteer Fire Department announced a total prohibition on all outdoor burning.

Seasonal Patterns

These burn restrictions follow the established thresholds set by the National Weather Service's Fire Weather Watch criteria for managing wildfire risks. The current drought status reflects a departure from normal autumn moisture levels for these six Vermont counties.

Residents must refrain from all outdoor burning and should check with their local fire department before attempting any outdoor activities that could produce a spark. Keeping properties clear of dry brush can help reduce the immediate wildfire threat near homes.

The takeaway

Maintaining compliance with local burn bans is essential to prevent accidental fires during this period of extreme dryness. Residents should monitor local fire department updates frequently as the lack of forecasted rain keeps the wildfire risk at a high level.