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FLORENCE, AZ – Starting April 2, Pinal County Air Quality will only issue 3-day open burning permits. All permits will expire by May 1 and Pinal County will suspend the issuance of open burning permits on April 26.
Burn permits allow for the disposal of plant material by open burning during limited daytime hours.
Additionally, state law prohibits open burning in Area A from May 1 thru September 30. The Pinal County portion of Area A includes Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Gold Canyon, San Tan Valley and portions of Florence.
This year’s winter rains contributed to wildflower, brush and native plant growth, which will soon dry. The annual cycle of rising temperatures will quickly dry seasonal vegetation, leading to an acute wildfire risk in the desert and upland areas of the County.
“The suspension on burn permits will continue until the summer monsoons arrive and mitigate the dual risks to public safety and public health” says Don Gabrielson, Director of Pinal County’s Air Quality program.
Additional information on the Pinal County Air Quality program can be found at www.pinalcountyaz.gov or by calling the Pinal County Air Quality Division at 520-866-6929.
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