Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner | Sheriff Jesse F. Jahner Cass County
Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner | Sheriff Jesse F. Jahner Cass County
The Cass County Board of Commissioners has declared a fire emergency and imposed burn restrictions effective through May 19, 2025. This decision comes in response to the presence of dry vegetation combined with hot, dry, and windy weather conditions.
The restrictions apply when the North Dakota Rangeland Fire Danger Rating for Cass County is classified as High, Very High, or Extreme. Additionally, they are enforced if a Red Flag Warning is issued by the National Weather Service.
During this period, all forms of open burning are prohibited. This includes campfires, garbage or pit burning, controlled burns such as brush piles and agricultural fields, and the use of fireworks—both aerial and ground-based.
There are exceptions for certain controlled devices. Gas camp stoves, gas, wood-fired or charcoal grills, and outdoor fireplaces or chimineas are allowed if placed on a hard, non-organic surface at least 15 feet from vegetation. An extinguisher or water source must also be immediately available.
Violating these burn restrictions constitutes a Class B misdemeanor under North Dakota Century Code 37-17.1-10.1. Offenders may face up to 30 days in jail and fines reaching $1,500.
Residents are advised to check the daily Fire Danger Rating before engaging in any burning activities. The rating can be accessed at ndresponse.gov/burn.
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