03/30/2020- Both the Wisconsin and Michigan DNR have elected to temporarily halt the issuance of burn permits amidst the COVID-19 outbreak. Spring is one of the most active times of the year for accidental debris fires and agencies in both states say the decision not to allow burning is designed to keep emergency responders and firefighters available to respond to other issues related to curtailing the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, because firefighters often work closely together on scene and when traveling to and from incident locations, the suspension of burn permits also will help protect these individuals from infection by the novel coronavirus. The ban includes all burning of debris in barrels or on the ground and burning in any grass or wooded areas. That suspension is in place in Wisconsin and Michigan until further notice.