As summer nears and the threat of wildfires increases, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is halting residential burn permits across several Northern California counties, including the eastern part of San Joaquin County.
The burn ban begins at 8 a.m. Monday. Other areas include Tuolumne and Calaveras counties and the eastern part of Stanislaus County.
The ban means that residents will be forbidden from the outdoor burning of leaves, branches or other landscaping waste.
Instead, Cal Fire officials suggest residents dispose of waste at compost facilities or by using mechanical chippers.
The order from Cal Fire’s Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit also asks residents to make preparations for the wildfire season. Homeowners should clear 100 feet of brush from their homes or other structures, put in fire-resistant plants and trees and space them apart so they can’t catch fire as easily.
The ban does not apply to campfires in organized campgrounds or on private property. However, a valid campfire permit, which can be obtained online, may be required.