Dry Conditions, Wildfire Risk Prompt Sevier County Burn Bans

Burn bans are in effect for much of Sevier County to reduce risk of wildfires due to hazardous dry conditions.

Lack of rainfall and low humidity prompted burn bans within the city limits of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville this week. Sevier County Emergency Management officials cannot issue a burn ban countywide without a proclamation by state officials, but asked citizens to refrain from open burning.

“Sevier County is currently experiencing dryer than normal weather conditions due to lack of rainfall and increased temperatures,” said the office of Sevier County Emergency Management. “​During dryer conditions or times when we are experiencing elevated fire ratings, we ask the public to refrain, limit, or use extreme caution when conducting open debris burning, this helps reduce the chance of a wildfire.”

The burn bans include fire pits. Charcoal grills for cooking are still allowed at this time but should only be used under extreme caution. While smokers should never toss out cigarette butts, the dry conditions make it is especially hazardous if those butts are tossed along roadways from vehicles.

Year round, the cities of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville all require residents to obtain a burn permit through their local fire department prior to any open burning. Permit availability depends on current fire ratings.

In unincorporated Sevier County, residents are required to get a burn permit through the state Division of Forestry from October 15 through May 15 by calling their local office. In Sevier County obtain a burn permit by calling (865) 429-7020.

“The ban on opening burning will be in effect until significant rainfall is received,” Sevierville Fire Marshal White said. “The public will be notified when the ban is lifted.”

Unattended grass or brush fires, especially along roadways, should be reported immediately by calling 911.