If air quality conditions deteriorate, this web page may be used for updates and alerts. If you require additional information, call 406-751-8130.

Fall open burning season closed December 1. In accordance with the Flathead County Air Pollution Control Program and the State Air and Waste Management Bureau, burning from December 1 through February 29 is closed open burning is prohibited during the months of December, January, and February. Ventilation of the Flathead Valley as a whole during these months is typically poor. Spring open burning will begin March 1st. Campfires and warming fires (when deemed necessary due to weather conditions) are restricted to fires less than 4 feet in diameter and 3 feet in height. Burning manmade material is prohibited at any time.

For further air quality updates visit www.todaysair@mt.gov or call our office during business hours at Monday - Friday at 406-751-8130.

Important Dates to Remember

December 1 – February 29 No open burning (Season Closed)
March 1-April 30  Open burning. No burning permit required. Air Quality compliance required.
May 1-June 30 Burning permit required from DNRC(Department of Natural Resources and Conservation). Air Quality compliance required.
July 1 -September 30 No burning in Flathead County and some Lake County RFD’s. May be earlier or later due to fire conditions
October 1 – November 30 Open burning. No burning permit required. Air Quality compliance required.

If you have further questions regarding air quality, please call 751-8130.

Burning Permits can be acquired at the following locations:

  • Fire Safe Kalispell

  • Calling 406-752-7376

  • In person at DNRC offices (Kalispell, Swan, Stillwater)

  • In person at Flathead County Environmental Health (2nd floor of South Campus Building)

  • In person at Bigfork Fire Department

Please remember that debris burning is not allowed within city limits of Kalispell, Whitefish, or Columbia Falls.

Camp Fires

Burning permits are not required for campfires.  Under state law, a campfire is defined as a fire set for cooking, warming or ceremonial purposes; not more than 3 feet in diameter or height and cleared of overhanging branches.  All combustible material should be cleared at least 1-1/2 times the diameter of the fire.

Never leave your campfire unattended and keep your shovel and bucket handy.  Most importantly, do not abandon your campfire until you are sure your fire is DEAD OUT.  Prevent forest fires, build safe campfires, and stay with them until they are DEAD OUT.  Only YOU can prevent wildfires.

Helpful Links:

Environmental Health Services Contact Info

1035 1st Ave West
Kalispell, MT 59901 – 2nd Floor

406-751-8130 main line                                 Office Hours
406-751-8131 fax                                            Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8 am -5 pm
406-751-8144 air quality line                          Wednesday Closed 8:00am -9:30am Open 9:30am -5 pm