Hamilton County’s burning ban ended at the start of this month, which means burn season is back. If you’ve got brush or vegetation piling up on your property, you can now apply for a seasonal burn permit through the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau.
Permit costs + who needs one
- $60 | People who live inside the city limits of Chattanooga, Collegedale, East Ridge, Red Bank, or Ridgeside. These permits also require an inspection from a Bureau investigator.
- $10 | People who live in all other parts of Hamilton County.
How to get a permit
- Online | Click the green “Pay Online” button on the APCB website.
- By mail | Fill out the City or County application (depending on where you live) online and mail it in with a check or money order.
- In person | Go to 2034 Hamilton Place Blvd., Suite 300, fill out the application, and pay on-site.
All permits are valid through April 30, 2026. Hamilton County bans burning from May 1 through Sept. 30 to help meet federal air quality standards.
Now that the ban is lifted, it’s important to note: We’re entering fall fire season — meaning dry leaves and windy days can increase wildfire risk. So if you burn, burn smart.
Safe burning tips
- Check the weather report — don’t burn on windy days.
- Create control lines down to the soil at least five feet wide around your burn piles.
- Keep water, a shovel, and other fire containment tools nearby.
- Never leave the fire unattended, and make sure it’s completely out before walking away.
Check out the full list of burning conditions, including what materials are off-limits.
