MN HF3568

Adds definition of "prescribed burn" as an intentionally ignited and managed fire by a qualified entity for vegetation management purposes, effective July 1, 2017

Exempts prescribed burns from wildfire prevention and suppression duties of forest officers, and permits prescribed burns without a permit if the local Department of Natural Resources forestry office is notified in advance

Directs the commissioner of natural resources to develop certification criteria for entities to conduct prescribed burns without permits, in cooperation with professionals, nongovernmental organizations, and local and federal governments

Requires the commissioner to submit recommendations for any necessary legislative changes to relevant house and senate committee chairs and ranking minority members by January 15, 2017

All changes effective July 1, 2017