Fire restrictions lifted, but get a permit

The town of Taos has lifted fire and water restrictions for residents and businesses.

Burn permits are still required for people who want to burn weeds because despite precautions, the fire department “is on pace to break all records for calls responded to this year,” according to a statement from the town.

Contact the Taos Fire Department for “burn permits” for the burning of agricultural and yard generated brush, leaves, weeds, tree trimmings, farm fields, gardens, ditches, acequias and other noncaustic green-waste.

Residents are reminded that it is illegal at all times, with or without a permit, to burn trash, household items, tires, furniture, plastics, rubber, cardboard boxes, paints and solvents, pesticides and toxic or hazardous chemicals, motor oil, vehicles and vehicle parts, flammable liquids, construction and demolition rubble, animal; carcasses, garbage or other household, commercial, or industrial waste.

As the weather cools, town officials urge residents to clean wood stove flues, chimneys and fireplaces, have furnaces checked, change all filters, clean dryer vents of built-up lint, and install and check carbon monoxide, heat and smoke detectors.

For questions about how to dispose of specific types of waste or material, contact the town of Taos Fire Marshall at (575) 737-2607 or the Taos Fire Department at (575)737-2615.