04/10/2026
Each year in April and May, we enter a period of increased wildfire activity in Maine and have days of elevated fire danger. Dry grasses and leaf litter, higher temperatures, lower relative humidity, and winds that can easily reach the forest floor all combine to create the conditions for Maine's spring wildfire season. In April 2025, Maine experienced 193 wildfires, burning 177 acres. All of those fires were caused by human activities, and more than a third were related to debris and open burning.
You can do your part by checking the daily fire danger rating before burning (https://mainefireweather.org/), always getting a permit when burning debris, and being careful with all potential ignition sources (campfires, fireworks, welding, etc.). Free burn permits can be obtained through the state’s online burn permit system (https://apps1.web.maine.gov/burnpermit/public/index.html).
Maine Forest Rangers remind the public to keep all fires small and manageable. Never leave a fire unattended and be sure your fire is properly extinguished before leaving the area. Please contact your local authorities if you have any questions prior to having outdoor fires.
