Background -- The Burn Permit Program and the FARR
The Nez Perce Tribe operates a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delegated burn permit program within the exterior boundaries of the 1863 Nez Perce Reservation pursuant to the EPA Federal Air Rules for Reservations (FARR). The FARR became effective June 2005.
Burn Permits and Requirements
The FARR applies to all agencies, businesses, and residents burning on the Nez Perce Reservation and requires an air quality burn permit year-round. Air Quality Burn permits are required for agricultural, backyard (small and large), and forestry burning, and fire department trainings. Cultural or traditional fires and camp or recreational fires do not require a permit.
Depending on air quality conditions, burn bans may be declared throughout the year. During burn bans no type of burning is permitted, including camp and recreational fires. The only exemption is fires that are set for cultural or traditional purposes.
Applicants are responsible for compliance with any applicable burn safety requirements and must also obtain applicable fire safety permits. Contact your local fire district or sheriff's office for fire safety permit information.
Download and print a blank FARR Agricultural burn permit
Download and print a blank FARR Forestry burn permit
Download and print a blank FARR Large Open burn permit
Download and print a blank FARR Small Open burn permit
Illegal Burning and Complaints
The Nez Perce Tribe Air ERWM Quality Program responds to complaints and conducts investigations. Burning conducted without permission of the Nez Perce Tribe and/or failure to follow the FARR permit procedures are violations of the FARR and the federal Clean Air Act and are subject to penalties up to $51,796 per day of violation. EPA retains enforcement authority of the rules.
