The burn permit suspension in Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and the western parts of San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties was lifted today, at 8:00 a.m. According to CAL FIRE's Santa Clara Unit Chief Baraka Carter, holders of valid agricultural and residential burn permits can now resume burning on permissible burn days as a measure to clear debris and mitigate fire hazards, with appropriate caution.

Decreasing temperatures, increased humidity, and the onset of winter weather have reduced the wildfire threat in the region. However, those conducting debris or agricultural burns, are advised to follow guidelines and ensure fire control, as any escape fires will result in civil or criminal liability.

To ensure they are in compliance, residents should verify which days are burn permissible. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District can be reached at 800-792-0787 for citizens in the San Francisco Bay Area, while contact information for San Joaquin and Stanislaus county residents includes 877-429-2876 or the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District's website.

When pile burning, residents must adhere to specific requirements for the maintenance of safety and risk reduction. These provisions include only burning dry, natural vegetation, avoiding windy day burns and trash or painted wood incineration, maintaining manageable pile sizes, clearing a 10-foot diameter around piles down to bare soil, and the presence of an adult at all burn sites alongside a shovel and a water source.