MS SB2789

Amends Section 49-19-351 of the Mississippi Code to allow county boards of supervisors to exempt certified controlled burn performers from outdoor burning bans during drought or wildfire conditions.

Boards of supervisors may issue orders prohibiting or restricting outdoor burning in unincorporated county areas when the State Forestry Commission determines drought or wildfire conditions exist.

Exemptions from burning bans apply only to persons certified to perform controlled burns as determined by the board of supervisors.

Violations of outdoor burning ban orders remain a misdemeanor punishable by fines between $100 and $500, with county sheriffs responsible for enforcement.

Burning ban orders automatically expire when the State Forestry Commission determines drought or wildfire conditions no longer exist.