WTVA: Burn bans in effect in 36 Mississippi counties Oct. 16

WTVA reported that burn bans were in effect in 36 Mississippi counties on Oct. 16. That is a dated county count, not a live update or a statewide prohibition, and it does not establish which bans remain in effect now.

The Mississippi Forestry Commission says county boards normally request bans and the commission approves them. Bans restrict outdoor burning involving an open flame that produces an ember, including campfires, fire pits and debris burning; individual bans may include exemptions and expire at midnight on their stated date. Municipalities may issue separate bans.

Before burning outdoors, check the Mississippi Forestry Commission’s county burn-ban list for current restrictions and the applicable ban’s expiration date and exemptions. The commission says local sheriff’s departments enforce bans and that knowingly and willfully violating one is a misdemeanor punishable by a $100 to $500 fine.