The Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM), in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF), hereby orders a statewide cease and desist order for all private burning, pursuant to his authority under R.S. 40:1602. Private burning shall only be allowed by permission of the local fire department or local government.

This order is being issued to reduce the risk of fire during this extreme dry period. This order shall not apply to prescribed burns by the LDAF, or by those who conduct prescribed burns as a "generally accepted agriculture practice" as defined by the Louisiana Right to Farm Law.

This order is effective August 7, 2023, at 5 PM and shall remain in effect until rescinded.

While certain burning practices are still allowed by law under this order, it is highly encouraged to avoid ANY AND ALL burning at this time.

Additional Information

• Original Press Release