Maury County firefighters spent March 20 chasing two separate wind-driven fires after a brush pile burn spread into a barn and nearby woods, according to the department. Crews moved quickly to shield nearby structures and cut down trees to carve out control lines as gusts pushed flames across dry ground. No injuries were reported, and firefighters say both incidents were contained before they could cause more damage.
What the department says
In a post on the Maury County Fire Department Facebook page, officials say crews were first dispatched to a brush-pile fire on Blue Ridge Drive that spread into a barn and surrounding woods. As units were wrapping up at that scene, a second call came in from Rippey Lake Road.
The department notes that multiple units responded, including Engine 21, several tankers, and a brush apparatus. According to the post, Engine 21 stretched roughly 200 feet of forestry line while firefighters felled two trees to slow the fire’s advance. The department reports that both fires were contained and confirms that no one was hurt.
State guidance on open burning
The Tennessee Division of Forestry warns that most wildfires in the state start as escaped debris burns and reminds residents that a debris-burn permit is required between Oct. 15 and May 15. Its safe-debris burning guidance comes with a clear warning: “Do NOT burn on windy days.”
Tennessee Wildland Fire offers detailed tips for safe burning and links to the statewide permit system. State officials say these precautions are designed to keep a routine debris burn from turning into a structure fire.
Local rules and contacts
The City of Columbia notes that the rules change once you cross into city limits. According to the City of Columbia FAQ, burning leaves and most open burning inside the city are restricted, and a local permit is required. Residents outside city limits are directed to obtain debris-burning permits through the state.
Both the city FAQ and the Maury County Fire Department website list contact information for residents who need permits or want to report potential hazards. The department also urges people to call if conditions change during a burn.
What residents should do
Before lighting a debris pile, residents are advised to check both state and local permit rules, avoid burning on windy days, notify neighbors and the local fire department, and have basic containment tools ready. If a burn escapes control at any point, officials say to call 911 immediately so crews can respond before gusty winds push flames toward homes and outbuildings.
