Frequently Asked Questions

The DNR issues statewide regulations, if you live within a municipality that controls open burning, local permits, or more stringent regulations may apply. The City of Farmington requires a Burn Permit for open burn fires, click on the titles below for more information.

• Open Burn Permit (PDF)
• Recreational Fire Tips (PDF)
• Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Fire Danger Rating and Burn Restrictions

Please call 651-280-6945 if you have questions.

The only fireworks that are legal in the State of Minnesota are non-explosive and non-aerial (such as sparklers, cones, and tubes that sparkle, snakes, and party poppers). Any fireworks that explode leave the ground, or shoot anything other than sparks into the air are illegal. You must be 18 years old to purchase fireworks and fireworks are not permitted on public property.

Find consumer fireworks information from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends making a home escape plan as an important step to protect you and your family from fire. Make your own home fire escape plan using this NFPA Home Fire Escape Plan (PDF) or follow the instructions below:

• Draw a map of your home. Show all doors and windows.
• Visit each room. Find two ways out.
• All windows and doors should open easily. You should be able to use them to get outside.
• Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Push the test button to make sure each alarm is working.
• Pick a meeting place outside. It should be in front of your home.
• Everyone will meet at the meeting place.
• Make sure your house or building number can be seen from the street.
• Talk about your plan with everyone in your home.
• Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department.
• Practice your home fire escape drill!

Everyone in a household has a role to play in your home's fire safety. The NFPA created a Family's Fire Checklist (PDF) to help them become familiar with smoke alarms and home fire escape planning.

The U.S. Fire Administration would like to remind you of some important fire safety and prevention information.

• Plan and practice escape plans several times a year.
• Make sure your whole family knows when and how to call emergency telephone numbers.
• Obtain and learn how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors.
• Consider installing residential fire sprinklers in your home.

Visit the U.S. Fire Administration's website with questions about fire safety.

Fire extinguishers can be brought to the Dakota County Recycling Zone to be recycled for free. The Recycling Zone can be found at 3365 Dodd Road in Eagan, MN.

View the Recycling Zone website for drop-off guidelines and hours.