Fire Department
Jonathan Armstrong, Fire Chief
Non-Emergency Number
(615) 274-2922
Burn Permits
Burn permits focus attention on the safe use of fire. From October 15 through May 15, anyone starting an open-air fire within 500 feet of a forest, grassland, or woodland must by law secure a burning permit from the Division of Forestry. Permits are not required for burning in containers such as a metal barrel with a ½" mesh screen cover.
Permits are free of charge and may be obtained by calling 1 (877) 350-2876. Burning permits are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on holidays. Permits should be obtained in advance for weekends and holidays.
For information on what materials may NOT be burned in Tennessee, please visit The Rutherford County Emergency Management's Open Burning Guidelines. To report illegal burning or for more information, please call 1 (877) 350-2876.
Important Fire Safety Tips
Residents are strongly urged not to shoot fireworks of any type during dry conditions.
- Always call 911 in case of an emergency
- In case of fire - Get out fast, stay out
- If there is any smoke, stay low and crawl below
- Stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch on fire
- Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries annually
- Never disable a detector by borrowing its battery for another use
- Plan and practice two escape routes with your family
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Put a lid on grease fires, never use water
- Never use an appliance with a frayed cord
- Keep lighters and matches away from children
- Keep heaters away from curtains and furniture
- Remove lint from a dryer regularly
- Purchase a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it
- Always turn pot handles toward the center of the stove
- Never fill a gas container in a vehicle; always place it on the ground
- Never store flammable liquids in your house or garage
- Never wear loose clothing while cooking
- Never run a heater's cord under a rug, carpet, or furniture
Fun Links for Kids