Fire Service Coverage Area

Juniata Township is covered by two separate fire departments; Caro Fire Department, and Vassar Fire Department.  Zoom in on the map to see which department you're covered by, then reference the details below for specific rules of that department or to obtain a burn permit.

Michigan DEQ open burning regulations: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/deq/deq-aqd-open-burning-brochure_273553_7.pdf 

Caro Fire Department (green):

• • For a burn permit, call 989-673-2002.

  • The will be a 2 minute message that explains the rules/laws.

  • Leave your name, number, and address where the burn will occur.

  • The permit is granted as soon as you leave your message.

  • The permit is free, and valid for 30 days at a time.

  • Caro Fire Department website:  https://www.carocity.net/caro-fire-department 

Vassar Fire Department (blue):

• • To obtain a Burning Permit, click the link below. You can also call the Vassar City Hall during regular business hours at 989-823-8517. 

  • A burn permit IS NOT required for recreational fires or portable outdoor fireplaces.

  • You MUST obtain a burning permit for Open Burning or Special Use Burning. 

  • A phone message left DOES NOT grant you authorization to burn. 

  • After hours, on weekends, or holidays use the link to the form below. 

CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A BURN PERMIT

ALL burning MUST comply with the following regulations:

• • Open burning, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended, by a responsible adult, at least eighteen (18) years of age, until the fire is extinguished.

  • A minimum of one portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.

  • Burning that is offensive or objectionable because of smoke or odor emissions or when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous is prohibited.

  • Burning anything other than brush, lawn clippings, leaves, and fire is strictly prohibited.

  • Burning when wind speeds exceed eleven (11) miles per hour is prohibited.

  • No fires may be started before dawn. All fire must be extinguished before dusk.

  • For more information, Visit: Obtaining a Burn Permit | Vassar, MI (cityofvassar.org)

  • Vassar Fire Department website:  https://www.cityofvassar.org/154/Fire-Department